How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Best NDA Preparation Tips, Shortcuts here

How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Best NDA Preparation Tips, Shortcuts here

Edited By Soujanya K | Updated on Apr 12, 2024 10:36 AM IST | #NDA
Upcoming Event
NDA  Exam Date : 13 Apr' 2025 - 13 Apr' 2025

The UPSC holds the NDA Exam twice a year with the aim of recruiting candidates into the Indian Navy, Indian Army and Indian Air Force. The NDA exam is a popular competitive exam for recruitment into the Indian Defence Services. Candidates can prepare for the NDA 1 exam by following the tips and tricks provided below. The NDA 1 exam 2024 will be held on April 21, 2024.

How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Best NDA Preparation Tips, Shortcuts here
How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Best NDA Preparation Tips, Shortcuts here

NDA 2024 Important Dates

In the table below, candidates can find some dates of interest pertaining to the NDA exam. Candidates are encouraged to make note of the NDA 2024 exam dates for future reference and to use them to inform their preparation for the NDA exam.

NDA 1 Exam Dates 2024

Events

NDA 1 2024 Date

NDA 1 2024 notification

December 20, 2023

NDA 1 application form release

December 20, 2023

NDA 1 exam 2024

April 21, 2024

NDA 2 Exam Dates 2024

Events

NDA 2 2024 Date

NDA 2 2024 notification

May 15, 2024

NDA 2 application form release

May 15, 2024

NDA exam 2024

September 1, 2024

How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Tips for NDA Preparation

Candidates wanting to appear for the NDA exam for the first time might be thinking about how to prepare for NDA 2024, where to start the NDA preparation, what NDA books to study, what study material to refer to for the NDA examination, whether to take coaching or not and more. This article will resolve most of the issues regarding the NDA 2024 preparation method and strategy. Read the points below to get answers on how to prepare for NDA 2024.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 1 - Knowledge Of Exam Pattern

Before starting the NDA preparation 2024, candidates should have knowledge of the NDA exam pattern 2024. Check the table below.

NDA 2024 exam pattern

Subjects

Number of questions

Marks

Duration

Mathematics

120

300

2 hrs 30 mins (each paper)

General Ability Test

150

600

Note- There is ⅓ negative marking for every wrong answer.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 2 - Knowledge Of Syllabus

Candidates along with the knowledge of the exam pattern for NDA 2024, should also know the NDA exam syllabus for the written exam. NDA written exam has two subjects - mathematics and general ability test. The questions asked in the NDA exam are from these to subjects. Candidates can check the details of the NDA syllabus 2024 here.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 3 - Focus On Completing The Course

The NDA 2024 syllabus for the written exam is prescribed by the Commission. Candidates should first focus on completing the syllabus of NDA 2024 as prescribed by the UPSC for the written exam. Before moving on to attempt sample NDA 2024 question papers or previous year question papers.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 4 - What Study Material To Refer

Candidates should develop a habit of reading newspapers and books as it will help them to improve their grammar skill set, cover recent events & developments in the world and improve their basic general knowledge. Applicants are also advised not to refer to too many books as it will cause a lot of confusion to aspirants. They are advised to just refer to the standard and best books for NDA 2024 preparation and solve as many sample question papers as possible in the allotted time frame.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 5 - Written Exam

Candidates are advised to practice as many sample and previous year question papers as possible for the NDA written examination. This will improve their speed and accuracy level in the examination. For the SSB applicants are advised to stay physically fit and develop their interpersonal skill sets.

Candidates should attempt the NDA sample papers after covering the NDA 2024 syllabus to get an idea of where they stand in their preparation. This will also help the candidates to know about their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to the NDA exam and areas that need improvement. It will also give them a feel of the actual NDA exam pattern and the type of questions asked in the exam.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 6 - Time Management

Candidates should start their NDA preparation with a clean slate i.e. they should get rid of all the preconceived notions about the NDA and NA examination. Their focus should be on the final goal and how to achieve it. Applicants should start their UPSC NDA preparation well in advance before the actual exam, to cover all the subjects - mathematics and general ability tests.

Time management is key in every exam so candidates need to learn how to improve their efficiency in the allotted time. Different candidates have different ways of time management, so it's up to you to learn how to better utilize your time during the NDA 2024 exam.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 7 - Stay Healthy

Applicants need to stay calm, hydrated and focused to reach their final goal in any exam. Every candidate has a different way or strategy for preparing for the NDA exam. Applicants should follow the strategy that best suits them rather than copying others. The mantra for clearing the NDA 2024 exam is to stay focused and determined till the goal is achieved.

More Relevant Links


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the NDA exam conducted online or offline?

The NDA 2024 exam will be conducted in offline mode i.e. pen and paper mode.

2. Is there -ve marking in the NDA written exam?

Yes, there is -ve marking in the written examination of NDA.

3. How many stages are there in the NDA selection process?

NDA exam has three stages in its selection process - written exam, SSB interview and medical exam.

4. What are the posts for which NDA exam is conducted?

The NDA exam is conducted for the recruitment of candidates to Officer level posts in the Indian Defence Services.

5. When is the NDA 1 2024 exam?

The NDA 1 2024 exam is scheduled to be held on April 21, 2024.

6. Can I apply for NDA 2024?

Candidates who fulfil the NDA 2024 eligibility criteria will be able to apply for the exam. 

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Questions related to NDA

Have a question related to NDA ?

Hello aspirant,

Candidates should typically be between the ages of 16.5 and 19.5 when the course starts. Candidates for NDA 1 (2026) must have been born between July 2, 2007, and July 1, 2010. Candidates for NDA 2 (2026) must have been born between January 2, 2008, and January 1, 2011.

So, unfortunately, you do not fulfill the eligibility criteria and that's why ineligible for NDA exam 2026.

Thank you

Hello,

For the NDA (National Defence Academy) exam , eyesight requirements vary by service (Army, Navy, Air Force).

Eligibility based on eyesight :-

  • Army: Maximum permissible myopia is -2.5D . You are not eligible with -10D.
  • Navy: Maximum myopia allowed is -1.5D . You are not eligible .
  • Air Force: Requires near-perfect vision; -10D is not allowed

Alternative options :-

  • LASIK surgery : Allowed under strict conditions (age >20, stable power, etc.).
  • Consider non-combat roles in defence services.
  • Explore other government exams like CDS (for OTA).

Hope you find it useful !

Hello,

We offer comprehensive resources for NDA exam preparation:

  • Preparation Tips : Detailed strategies to effectively prepare for the NDA exam.
  • Recommended Books : Curated lists of subject-wise books to aid your study.
  • Mock Tests and Sample Papers: Practice materials to assess your readiness and improve performance.
  • Time Management Strategies: Guidance on balancing NDA preparation with other commitments.
  • Physical Fitness Guidance: Tips to maintain health and fitness, crucial for the SSB interview.

These resources are designed to provide a structured approach to your NDA exam preparation.

Hope you find it useful !

Hello aspirant,

Candidates must fulfill the age limits established by UPSC in order to be eligible for the NDA 1 and NDA 2 in 2026. The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam has an age range of 16.5 to 19.5 years. This also holds true for the NDA 2 exam.

Thank you

Hope it helps you

If you’re aiming to join the National Defence Academy (NDA), here’s a simplified guide to help you:


1. Eligibility:


Age Limit: You must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years old.


Educational Requirements:


For Army Wing: You can apply with any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts).


For Air Force & Navy Wings: You need to have Physics and Mathematics in your 12th standard.



Physical Fitness: You'll need to meet specific physical and medical standards (important for your health checkup later).



2. Application Process:


When to Apply: The UPSC releases the NDA exam notification twice a year, typically in January and June.


How to Apply: You can apply online through the official UPSC website.



3. Exam Pattern:


Written Exam:


Mathematics: 300 marks (2.5 hours)


General Ability Test (GAT): 600 marks (2.5 hours)



SSB Interview: If you clear the written exam, you will face a detailed interview that tests your physical, mental, and emotional strength.



4. Preparation Tips:


Create a Study Plan: Make sure you cover all subjects systematically.


Practice Regularly: Solve previous years' question papers and attempt mock tests.


Physical Fitness: NDA demands physical fitness, so regular exercise is crucial.


Stay Informed: Keep up with current events and general knowledge, which is an important part of the exam.



5. Coaching and Resources:


You can join coaching centers for structured preparation or rely on books, especially NCERT textbooks.


Books for NDA: Some good books include NDA’s guide by R.S. Aggarwal or Lucent’s General Knowledge.



6. Medical and Other Considerations:


Make sure you meet the medical standards during the NDA medical examination.


Keep checking the official UPSC website for updates on exam dates and notifications.

By staying disciplined and consistent in your preparation, you’ll be on the right track to secure a place in NDA. Focus on both the academic and physical aspects, and don't forget to be mentally prepared for the challenges ahead!

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