Embarking on a career with the Indian Armed Forces through the National Defence Academy (NDA) is a prestigious opportunity. The UPSC NDA Exam 2025 is the gateway for aspirants aiming to join the Army, Navy, or Air Force wings. Understanding the exam pattern, including the written test and Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, is crucial for effective preparation.
Key Highlights
- Organization Name: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Exam Name: National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination 2025
- Frequency: Conducted twice a year
- Selection Process: Written Examination and SSB Interview
- Written Exam Subjects: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT)
- Total Marks: 900 (Mathematics: 300, GAT: 600)
- Negative Marking: Yes, for incorrect answers
- SSB Interview Duration: 5 days
- Official Website: upsc.gov.in
Written Examination 📝
The written examination is the first hurdle in the NDA selection process. It comprises two papers:
Mathematics
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Total Questions: 120
- Maximum Marks: 300
- Marking Scheme: Each correct answer awards 2.5 marks; each incorrect answer deducts 0.83 marks.
This paper assesses a candidate’s proficiency in topics like Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, and Vector Algebra.
General Ability Test (GAT)
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Total Questions: 150
- Maximum Marks: 600
- Marking Scheme: Each correct answer awards 4 marks; each incorrect answer deducts 1.33 marks.
The GAT is divided into two sections:
- English: Evaluates grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.
- General Knowledge: Covers subjects like Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Events.
Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview 🎤
Candidates who clear the written exam are invited to the SSB Interview, a comprehensive 5-day assessment.
Stage I
- Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Tests: Measures verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
- Picture Perception & Description Test (PP&DT): Candidates observe a picture and narrate a story based on it.
Stage II
This stage spans four days and includes:
- Psychological Tests: Assess the candidate’s mental robustness and suitability for a military career.
- Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO Tasks): Evaluate leadership, teamwork, and decision-making skills through group activities.
- Personal Interview: One-on-one interaction focusing on the candidate’s background, aspirations, and suitability for the armed forces.
- Conference: A panel review where assessors discuss the candidate’s performance holistically.
Medical Examination 🏥
Post-SSB, shortlisted candidates undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the physical and medical standards required for service in the armed forces. This includes:
- Physical Fitness Tests: Assess overall health and endurance.
- Vision and Hearing Tests: Ensure candidates meet the required sensory standards.
- Laboratory Investigations: Routine blood and urine tests to detect any underlying health issues.
Final Merit List 📜
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) compiles a final merit list based on combined scores from the written examination and SSB interview. Candidates ranking high on this list are offered admission to the NDA, where they undergo rigorous training before commissioning into their respective services.
For detailed information and updates, visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in.
Neha Gupta is an education content creator with expertise in admit cards and exam notifications. She holds a degree in Education and has 3+ years of experience. Neha loves mentoring students and spends her free time reading novels.
