MJS Defence Academy

How to Apply for the NDA Exam : By MJS Defence Academy

How To Apply For NDA Exam

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is one of the most prestigious entrance examinations in India, paving the way for young aspirants to join the Indian Armed Forces. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the NDA exam is a gateway for candidates to enter the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. At MJS Defence Academy, we understand the significance of this exam and provide a detailed guide to help you through the application process.

Understanding the NDA Exam

The NDA exam is conducted twice a year and consists of two parts: a written examination and an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). Candidates who successfully clear these stages undergo rigorous training at the National Defence Academy before being commissioned into various branches of the Indian Armed Forces.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the following eligibility criteria:

  1. Nationality: Candidates must be citizens of India, subjects of Bhutan or Nepal, or Tibetan refugees who came to India before January 1, 1962, to permanently settle in India.
  2. Gender and Marital Status: Only unmarried male candidates are eligible.
  3. Age Limit: Candidates must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years of age.
  4. Educational Qualification:
    • For Army Wing: Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
    • For Air Force and Naval Wings: Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics.
  5. Physical Standards: Candidates must meet the physical standards set by the NDA.

NDA Admission Open

Captcha
9 - 1 = ?
Reload

Latest Selections

Steps to Apply for the NDA Exam

Step 1: One Time Registration (OTR)

Before applying for the NDA exam, candidates must complete the One Time Registration (OTR) on the UPSC website. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Visit the UPSC Website: Go to upsconline.nic.in.
  2. Click on ‘New Registration’: On the homepage, find and click the “New Registration” link.
  3. Fill in Personal Details: Enter your personal details, including name, gender, date of birth, father’s name, mother’s name, minority status, mobile number, and email ID.
  4. Create Login Credentials: After entering the details, create your login credentials.
  5. Submit and Verify: Submit the details and verify your registration through the OTP sent to your registered mobile number and email ID.

Step 2: Filling the NDA Application Form

After completing the OTR, you can proceed to fill out the NDA application form. The application form is divided into two parts.

Part I: Registration Form

  1. Log in: Use your login credentials to log in to the UPSC portal.
  2. Personal Details: Enter your personal details as prompted.
  3. Educational Qualifications: Provide details of your educational qualifications.
  4. Select Branch Preference: Choose your preferred branches (Indian Army, Navy, Air Force) in order of priority.
  5. Preview Details: Review all the information entered to ensure accuracy.
  6. Generate Registration ID: After confirming the details, a registration ID will be generated.

Part II: Application Form

  1. Log in Again: Log in using your registration

ID and password. 2. Fee Payment: Pay the application fee of Rs 100. Candidates can make the payment through various modes such as Visa/Master/RuPay Credit/Debit Card, UPI, Net Banking, or by cash at any SBI branch. Note that SC/ST candidates, sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs, and female candidates are exempt from the fee. 3. Selection of Exam Centre: Choose your preferred exam centers. Select three centers in order of preference from the list provided. 4. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and photo ID card. Ensure the files are in the required format and size specifications. 5. Agree to the Declaration: Read the declaration carefully and click “I agree” to affirm that all the details provided are correct. 6. Final Submission: Submit the completed application form and download a copy for your records. It’s advisable to take a printout of the application form for future reference.

Step 3: Preparing for the Exam

With the application process completed, the next crucial step is preparing for the NDA exam. At MJS Defence Academy, we provide comprehensive coaching and resources to help candidates excel in both the written exam and the SSB interview.

Written Examination

The written exam comprises two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT).

  • Mathematics: This paper is designed to test the candidate’s mathematical skills and understanding of concepts up to the 10+2 level. Topics include algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics, among others.
  • General Ability Test (GAT): This paper is divided into two sections. Section A covers English, testing the candidate’s proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. Section B covers General Knowledge, which includes physics, chemistry, general science, history, geography, and current events.

Tips for Preparation

  1. Create a Study Schedule: Allocate specific times for each subject and stick to your schedule diligently.
  2. Understand the Syllabus: Be thorough with the NDA syllabus and exam pattern.
  3. Practice Previous Papers: Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and improve time management.
  4. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and work on areas where you need improvement.
  5. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of current events and general knowledge by reading newspapers, magazines, and watching news channels.

Step 4: SSB Interview Preparation

Candidates who qualify in the written exam are called for the SSB interview, which spans over five days and assesses the candidate’s physical, psychological, and leadership capabilities.

Stages of SSB Interview

  1. Screening Test: This includes an Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test and a Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT).
  2. Psychological Tests: These are written tests including Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), Situation Reaction Test (SRT), and Self-Description Test (SD).
  3. Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO): This involves group discussions, group planning exercises, progressive group tasks, half-group tasks, individual obstacles, and command tasks.
  1. Interview: The personal interview involves a one-on-one interaction with an interviewing officer, where the candidate’s personal background, interests, and motivations are discussed.
  2. Conference: The final stage involves a conference where all the assessors come together to discuss the performance of the candidates. The final recommendation is based on a collective decision.

Tips for SSB Interview Preparation

  1. Self-Reflection: Be honest and self-reflective about your strengths and weaknesses. This helps in the psychological tests and the personal interview.
  2. Stay Physically Fit: Maintain a good level of physical fitness, as the GTO tasks require physical stamina and agility.
  3. Improve Communication Skills: Work on your communication skills, including public speaking and group discussion abilities.
  4. Stay Updated on Current Affairs: Being well-informed about national and international events is crucial for both the GAT and the interview.
  5. Practice Psychological Tests: Familiarize yourself with the types of psychological tests conducted during the SSB interview.
  6. Mock Interviews: Participate in mock interviews to gain confidence and improve your interview techniques.

Step 5: Medical Examination

Candidates recommended by the SSB are required to undergo a medical examination conducted by a board of service medical officers. This examination ensures that candidates meet the required physical and medical standards.

Medical Standards

  1. Height and Weight: Candidates must meet specific height and weight standards.
  2. Vision Standards: Standards for vision are stringent. Candidates must have good binocular vision and a good stereoscopic vision.
  3. Hearing Standards: Candidates should have normal hearing ability.
  4. Dental Health: Candidates should have a sufficient number of healthy teeth and gums.
  5. Overall Health: Candidates should be free from any diseases or disabilities that can interfere with the performance of their duties.

Step 6: Final Merit List

The final selection is based on the candidate’s performance in the written examination, SSB interview, and medical examination. The UPSC releases a merit list of the candidates who have successfully cleared all stages. Selected candidates are then sent for training at the National Defence Academy in Pune.

Life at NDA

Training at the NDA is rigorous and spans three years, divided into six terms. During this period, cadets undergo academic education, physical training, and personality development to prepare them for the demands of military service. The NDA imparts training in various aspects such as leadership, discipline, and tactical warfare, ensuring that the cadets are well-prepared for their roles as officers in the Indian Armed Forces.

Maths Jugad Se (MJS Defence Academy)

Join MJS Defence Academy Today:

  • Admission Open: Don’t miss the opportunity to join the premier NDA coaching institute in India. Contact us today to enrol in our coaching classes and start your journey towards a rewarding career in the Indian Armed Forces.
  • Contact Information: To learn more about our courses and admission process, please fill out the contact form on our website or reach out to us via phone or email.
  • Experience the MJS Difference: Join MJS Defence Academy and experience the difference in quality education, expert guidance, and comprehensive preparation for the NDA exam and SSB interview.

FAQs

1. What is the eligibility criteria for the NDA exam?

To apply for the NDA exam, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen, a subject of Bhutan or Nepal, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India.
  • Gender and Marital Status: Only unmarried male candidates are eligible.
  • Age Limit: Candidates should be between 16.5 and 19.5 years old.
  • Educational Qualification: For the Army Wing, candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board. For the Air Force and Naval Wings, candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
  • Physical Standards: Candidates must meet specific physical standards as set by the NDA.
2. How can I apply for the NDA exam online?

To apply for the NDA exam, follow these steps:

  • Complete One-Time Registration (OTR): Visit the official UPSC website at upsconline.nic.in, click on “New Registration,” and fill in the required personal details.
  • Fill the NDA Application Form: After OTR, log in using your credentials, fill in the application form with personal and educational details, select your preferred branches, and upload the necessary documents.
  • Pay the Application Fee: Pay the application fee of Rs 100 (SC/ST candidates, sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs, and female candidates are exempt).
  • Submit the Form: Preview and submit the application form, and take a printout for future reference.
3. What is the structure of the NDA written examination?

The NDA written examination consists of two papers:

  • Mathematics: This paper tests mathematical skills up to the 10+2 level and covers topics such as algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics. It is for 300 marks and lasts for 2.5 hours.
  • General Ability Test (GAT): Divided into two sections, Section A tests English proficiency, and Section B covers General Knowledge including physics, chemistry, general science, history, geography, and current events. It is for 600 marks and also lasts for 2.5 hours.
4. What are the key components of the SSB interview process?

The SSB interview is a five-day process that includes:

  • Screening Test: Consists of an Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test and a Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT).
  • Psychological Tests: Includes Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), Situation Reaction Test (SRT), and Self-Description Test (SD).
  • Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO): Includes group discussions, group planning exercises, progressive group tasks, half-group tasks, individual obstacles, and command tasks.
  • Personal Interview: A one-on-one interaction with an interviewing officer to discuss the candidate’s background, interests, and motivations.
  • Conference: All assessors discuss and finalize the candidate’s suitability for a career in the armed forces.
5. How can I prepare effectively for the NDA exam and SSB interview?

Effective preparation involves:

  • Creating a Study Schedule: Allocate specific times for each subject and adhere to your schedule.
  • Understanding the Syllabus: Be thorough with the NDA syllabus and exam pattern.
  • Practicing Previous Papers: Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
  • Focusing on Weak Areas: Identify and improve areas where you need more practice.
  • Staying Physically Fit: Maintain a good level of physical fitness for the GTO tasks.
  • Improving Communication Skills: Work on your communication and public speaking skills for the interview and group discussions.
  • Keeping Updated: Stay informed about current events and general knowledge.
  • Seeking Professional Guidance: Consider joining a coaching institute like MJS Defence Academy for expert guidance and structured preparation.

Featured Courses

NDA

Rankers NDA (1) 2025 Online Batch

(4.7)
4.6/5
NDA

Offline Batch NDA (1) 2025

(4.8)
4.7/5
Youtube

Maths Jugad Se (MJS Defence Academy)

Best NDA Coaching for Girls in India, Girls Nda Coaching, Nda Coaching For Girls, Nda For Girls Coaching, Nda Girls Coaching

Best NDA Coaching for Girls in India, Girls Nda Coaching, Nda Coaching For Girls, Nda For Girls Coaching, Nda Girls Coaching

Best NDA Coaching for Girls in India, Girls Nda Coaching, Nda Coaching For Girls, Nda For Girls Coaching, Nda Girls Coaching

Get Free Exclusive NDA Study Material

Captcha
6 + 4 = ?
Reload

NDA Admission Open

Captcha
9 * 3 = ?
Reload