UPSC NDA 1 2026 Recruitment Overview
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026. This is the ultimate gateway for young, unmarried men and women who dream of wearing the uniform and serving the nation as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Commission has announced 394 vacancies for the 157th Course at NDA and the 119th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC). Selected candidates will undergo world-class training with a stipend of ₹56,100 per month, eventually commissioning as Lieutenants (or equivalent) with a prestigious Level 10 salary. The application window is open from 10th December 2025 to 30th December 2025. If you are a 12th-pass student with a passion for defence, this is your call to duty.
Key Highlights of UPSC NDA 1 2026 Exam
- Recruitment Board: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Exam Name: National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026
- Total Vacancies: 394 Posts
- Job Location: All India (Training at Khadakwasla & Ezhimala)
- Salary/Pay Scale: Level 10 (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500)
- Application Mode: Online
- Last Date to Apply: 30th December 2025
The NDA exam is conducted twice a year and is one of the most competitive defence exams in India. It offers a direct entry for 12th-standard students to become Class-I Gazetted Officers. The selection process tests not just your academic knowledge but also your personality, intelligence, and physical fitness through the extensive SSB interview.
UPSC NDA 1 Vacancy Breakdown 2026
The 394 vacancies are distributed among the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Naval Academy. Women candidates are eligible for all wings.
| Wing/Academy | Department/Entry | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| National Defence Academy | Army | 208 (including 10 for female) |
| Navy | 42 (including 05 for female) | |
| Air Force (Flying) | 92 (including 02 for female) | |
| Air Force (Ground Duties – Tech) | 18 (including 02 for female) | |
| Air Force (Ground Duties – Non Tech) | 10 (including 02 for female) | |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry) | — | 24 (including 03 for female) |
| Total | 394 |
UPSC NDA 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must strictly adhere to the eligibility rules regarding age and education.
Educational Qualification
- For Army Wing of NDA: 12th Class pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination conducted by a State Education Board or a University.
- For Air Force and Naval Wings of NDA & 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at INA: 12th Class pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent.
- Note: Candidates appearing in the 12th Class exam can also apply.
Age Limit & Marital Status
- Marital Status: Only unmarried male and female candidates can apply.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be born not earlier than 01st July 2007 and not later than 01st July 2010.
Physical Standards
Candidates must be physically fit according to the prescribed physical standards. This involves height, weight, and vision standards. It is advised to get a medical check-up done before applying to avoid rejection at a later stage.
Salary and Benefits
A career in the defence forces offers unmatched financial stability and perks.
- Stipend: Gentlemen/Lady Cadets receive a fixed stipend of ₹56,100/- per month (Starting pay in Level 10) during the training period at IMA/INA/AFA.
- Pay Scale: Upon commissioning, officers are placed in Level 10 (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500).
- Allowances: Officers are entitled to Military Service Pay (MSP) of ₹15,500/- p.m., Flying Allowance (for Pilots), Dearness Allowance, Kit Maintenance Allowance, High Altitude Allowance, and more.
- Perks: Free medical facilities, canteen facilities, group insurance, and accommodation are provided.
Selection Process Explained
The NDA selection process is a two-stage procedure:
Tier 1: Written Examination (900 Marks)
- Mathematics (Paper I): 300 Marks. Focuses on Algebra, Matrices, Trigonometry, Calculus, etc. Duration: 2.5 Hours.
- General Ability Test (Paper II): 600 Marks. Comprises English (200 marks) and General Knowledge (400 marks including Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography). Duration: 2.5 Hours.
- Note: The papers are objective type with negative marking.
Tier 2: SSB Interview (900 Marks)
Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for the Service Selection Board (SSB) interview. It is a 5-day process involving:
- Stage I: Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception & Description Test (PP&DT).
- Stage II: Interview, Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests, and the Conference.
- CPSS: Candidates for Air Force Flying Branch must also qualify the Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS).
How to Apply Online: Step-by-Step Guide
- Go to the official website: upsconline.nic.in.
- Complete the One Time Registration (OTR) platform if you are a new user.
- Log in and find the link for “National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026”.
- Fill out the application form carefully (Part I and Part II).
- Upload scanned photograph, signature, and photo ID card.
- Pay the examination fee of ₹100/- (except exempted categories).
- Select your preferred exam centre.
- Submit the application and download the confirmation page.
Important Dates for UPSC NDA 1 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 10th December 2025 |
| Online Application Begins | 10th December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30th December 2025 (till 6:00 PM) |
| Correction Window | 31st Dec 2025 to 06th Jan 2026 |
| NDA 1 Exam Date 2026 | 12th April 2026 |
Application Fees
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC (Sons of civilians) | ₹ 100/- |
| SC / ST / Female / Wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs | Nil (Exempted) |
| Payment Mode | Online (UPI/Card/Net Banking) |
Essential Links
- Official Notification PDF: Download Notification
- Apply Online: Apply Online
- Official Website: UPSC Website
- Whatsapp Channel for Government Jobs: Join WhatsApp
- Telegram Channel for Government Jobs: Join Telegram
- Follow us on Our Indian App Arattai: Follow on Arattai
The UPSC NDA 1 2026 examination is a golden opportunity for young patriots to build a glorious career in the Indian Armed Forces. With 394 vacancies and a clear path to becoming a commissioned officer, candidates should start their preparation immediately. Ensure you meet the age and educational criteria and apply before the deadline of 30th December 2025. Jai Hind!