The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is conducted in India for admission to the Army, Navy,Air Force wings and Naval academy of the NDA. The exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The criteria for the NDA exam include eligibility requirements and the selection process. UPSC exam conducted is common for NDA + NA)Naval Academy)..
Eligibility Criteria:
1. Nationality:
- A candidate must be a citizen of India or a subject of Bhutan, or a subject of Nepal, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, and Ethiopia or Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.
2. Age Limit:
- For the Army Wing of NDA: 16.5 to 19.5 years - For the Air Force and Naval Wings of NDA and the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at the Indian Naval Academy: 16.5 to 19.5 years.
3. Educational Qualification:
- For Army Wing: 10+2 qualification from a recognized board or equivalent. - For Air Force and Naval Wings: 10+2 qualification with Physics and Mathematics from a recognized board or equivalent.
4. Physical Standards:
- Candidates must be physically fit as per the physical standards set by the NDA.
Selection Process:
1. Written Examination:
- The written examination consists of two papers - Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The exam is conducted for a duration of 2.5 hours each.
2. Interview/Personality Test:
- Candidates who qualify in the written examination are called for an interview by the Services Selection Board (SSB).
3. Medical Examination:
- Candidates who clear the SSB interview undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the physical standards required by the NDA.
4. Final Selection:
- The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the written examination, SSB interview, and medical examination.