UPSC NDA 2026 eligibility
UPSC has released the NDA & NA (I) 2026 notification for 394 posts, inviting Class 12 passed and appearing candidates to apply online. The final application deadline is 30 December 2025 and the written exam is fixed for 12 April 2026 .
UPSC NDA 2026 eligibility: who can apply
Only unmarried candidates are eligible. Applicants must be born between 2007 and 2010 , and aged 16.5 to 19.5 years as on 1 July 2027 . You must have passed Class 12 or be appearing in Class 12 at the time of application.
For the Navy, Air Force and Naval Academy entries, Physics and Mathematics in Class 12 are compulsory. Candidates appearing in Class 12 can apply provisionally but must submit proof of passing by the time specified in the UPSC notification from official sources.
UPSC NDA 2026 eligibility: vacancies, fees and selection
Total vacancies are 394 , split into 370 male and 24 female posts. Recruitment is through the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Naval Academy under the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme, providing direct entry to officer training at the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy.
Application fee rules: General/OCI male candidates pay Rs.100 . Female candidates and SC/ST candidates are exempt from the fee.
Selection follows three stages: a written test of objective questions with negative marking, an SSB interview, and a medical examination. The written test is a key filter and will be held on 12 April 2026 as per the official notice.
Short, factual items for candidates
- Age reference date: 1 July 2027 .
- Birth years eligible: 2007–2010 .
- Exam date: 12 April 2026 .
- Last date to apply: 30 December 2025 .
Check the official UPSC notification and instructions before applying to confirm exam centres, fee payment modes, and document upload requirements. Follow the schedule closely—late applications are not accepted and document verification is strict during later stages.
Authorities have set these rules to align intake with training schedules; ensure you meet the age, education and marital status conditions exactly as stated in the UPSC notification from the exam authority.