If you are preparing for NDA II 2026, understanding the complete exam pattern is the first step toward success. The selection process is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission for admission into the prestigious National Defence Academy and Naval Academy.

This guide explains the NDA II 2026 exam pattern, including the Written Examination and the SSB Interview Process, so aspirants can prepare strategically.

Overview of NDA II 2026 Selection Process

The NDA selection process has two major stages:

Stage 1 – Written Examination

• Offline (Pen & Paper Mode)

• Objective Type Questions

• Conducted nationwide

Stage 2 – SSB Interview

• 5-Day personality and intelligence assessment

• Conducted for candidates who clear the written exam

NDA II 2026 Written Examination Pattern

The written test evaluates a candidate’s academic knowledge and problem-solving ability.

📘 Exam Structure

📐 Paper 1: Mathematics (300 Marks)

Key Topics:

• Algebra

• Matrices & Determinants

• Trigonometry

• Analytical Geometry

• Differential Calculus

• Integral Calculus

• Vector Algebra

• Statistics & Probability

Marking Scheme:

• Objective MCQs

• +2.5 marks for correct answer

• Negative Marking: −0.83 marks

🌍 Paper 2: General Ability Test (600 Marks)

This paper tests English skills and general awareness.

Part A — English (200 Marks)

• Grammar & Usage

• Vocabulary

• Comprehension

• Sentence Correction

• Para Jumbles

Part B — General Knowledge (400 Marks)

Subjects Covered:

• Physics

• Chemistry

• General Science

• History & Freedom Movement

• Geography

• Current Affairs

Marking Scheme:

• +4 marks for correct answer

• Negative Marking: −1.33 marks

🧮 Important Written Exam Highlights

• All questions are objective type

• Bilingual question paper (English & Hindi)

• Calculators not allowed

• Minimum qualifying marks required in each paper

• Merit based on total written marks

NDA II 2026 SSB Interview Process (Stage 2)

Candidates who clear the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board Interview conducted by the respective selection boards of:

• Indian Army

• Indian Navy

• Indian Air Force

The SSB assesses a candidate’s personality, leadership, communication skills, and officer-like qualities.

🗓️ 5-Day SSB Interview Structure

Day 1 — Screening Test

• Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test

• Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT)

✅ Candidates who qualify move to next rounds
❌ Others are sent back

Day 2 — Psychological Tests

• Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)

• Word Association Test (WAT)

• Situation Reaction Test (SRT)

• Self-Description Test (SD)

Day 3 & 4 — GTO Tasks

Conducted by the Group Testing Officer

Indoor & Outdoor Activities:

• Group Discussion

• Group Planning Exercise

• Progressive Group Tasks

• Half Group Tasks

• Individual Obstacles

• Command Task

• Lecturette

Day 5 — Personal Interview & Conference

• One-to-one interview with officers

• Final board conference

• Final recommendation

🩺 Medical Examination

Recommended candidates undergo a detailed medical test to ensure fitness as per defence standards.

📊 Final Merit List

The final merit list is prepared based on:

• Written Exam Marks (900)

• SSB Interview Marks (900)

• Medical Fitness

• All India Rank

🎯 Preparation Tips for NDA II 2026

✅ Strengthen Mathematics fundamentals
✅ Improve English grammar & vocabulary
✅ Stay updated with current affairs
✅ Practice previous year question papers
✅ Develop communication & leadership skills
✅ Prepare physically for SSB tasks

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the total marks for NDA II 2026 exam?

The total marks are 1800 (900 Written + 900 SSB).

2. Is there negative marking in NDA written exam?

Yes. Both Mathematics and GAT papers have negative marking.

3. Is NDA exam tough?

It is competitive but crackable with disciplined preparation.

4. How many days is the SSB interview?

The SSB interview process lasts 5 days.

5. Can I join Army, Navy, and Air Force through NDA?

Yes. NDA entry allows candidates to join all three defence services.

6. What happens after clearing SSB?

Candidates undergo medical tests and then final merit listing.

7. Is calculator allowed in NDA exam?

No, calculators and electronic devices are not permitted.