The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the notification for the National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026.
Through this exam, UPSC will fill 394 vacancies in the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA).
If you are in Class 12 or have already passed it and dream of joining the Indian Army, Navy or Air Force as an officer, this is one of the best entry points.
UPSC NDA & NA (I) 2026 – Overview
- Exam name: National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026
- Conducting body: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Total vacancies:394 posts
- National Defence Academy (NDA): 370
- Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme): 24
- Application mode: Online
- Official website: upsc.gov.in
- Helpline: 011-24041001 | upscsoap@nic.in
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC NDA & NA (I) 2026
1. Educational Qualification
a) Army Wing of National Defence Academy
- 12th Class pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education
or - Equivalent examination conducted by a State Education Board or a recognised University.
b) Air Force & Naval Wings of NDA and 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at the Indian Naval Academy
- 12th Class pass with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics
of the 10+2 pattern of School Education
or - Equivalent examination conducted by a State Education Board or a recognised University.
Students who are currently appearing in Class 12 under the 10+2 pattern can also apply, provided they can produce proof of passing before joining.
2. Age Limit & Marital Status
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
- Date of birth should be between 01 July 2007 and 01 July 2010 (both dates inclusive), as per the notification.
Further details on relaxation, if any, and exact interpretation of the date limits are given in the official UPSC notice.
3. Physical Standards
Candidates must meet the physical and medical standards prescribed by the NDA/NA authorities.
The detailed guidelines are available in the official notification, and candidates are advised to read them carefully before applying.
Application Fee
- Others (General / OBC / EWS): ₹100
- SC / ST candidates and Sons of JCOs / NCOs / ORs: Nil
- Women candidates: Nil
Payment mode:
- Online – using Visa / Master / RuPay Credit or Debit Card / UPI / Internet Banking of any bank.
How to Apply for UPSC NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026
You can submit the application only through the UPSC online portal.
- Visit the UPSC Online page from the official website.
- Find the link for “NDA & NA (I) Examination 2026 – Online Application” and click on it.
- Complete the Part I registration by filling in basic details and selecting the exam centre.
- Pay the application fee, if applicable.
- Proceed to Part II registration – upload your passport-sized photograph, signature and other required files in the given format.
- Fill in your personal, educational and contact details carefully and submit the form.
- After final submission, download and save / print the application form for future reference.
Important Dates – UPSC NDA & NA (I) 2026
- Start of online application: 10 December 2025
- Last date to apply online: 30 December 2025
- Admit card release: To be notified on the UPSC website
- Date of written exam: 12 April 2026