UPSC NDA Selection Process 2025 - Step wise process, Written Exam, SSB Interview

UPSC NDA Selection Process 2025 - Step wise process, Written Exam, SSB Interview

Edited By Vishnukumar V | Updated on Nov 07, 2024 03:06 PM IST | #NDA

UPSC mentions the NDA selection process 2025 in the official notification. The NDA 2025 notification contains the details that will be available for download on their official website, upsc.gov.in/upsconline.nic.in. Candidates are encouraged to go through the NDA 2025 selection process to get an idea of how the NDA exam will take place.

UPSC NDA Selection Process 2025 - Step wise process, Written Exam, SSB Interview
UPSC NDA Selection Process 2025 - Step wise process, Written Exam, SSB Interview

There are 3 Main stages in the NDA selection process 2025. First, Candidates must appear for the NDA 2025 written exam followed by the SSB interview and medical examination. According to the NDA admission process, only candidates who have cleared the written exam will be called for the SSB interview. Hence, it is important for candidates to prepare well for the NDA 2025. Candidates can prepare effectively using NDA question papers, the exam pattern, and the syllabus. The NDA final merit list 2025 will be prepared based on how candidates perform in both the written exam and interview. Candidates can go through the material below for more information about the NDA Joining Process 2025.

NDA Selection Process 2025- Stages

  • NDA Written Exam 2025

  • NDA SSB Interview

  • Medical Examination

Know about:

NDA Selection Process 2025 - Written Exam

The first stage in the NDA selection process is the written exam. The NDA 2025 written exam comprises two papers - Elementary Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The total marks allotted to the NDA written exam is 900. Candidates have to clear both papers separately.

NDA Paper 1 comprises 120 questions for 300 marks while paper 1 comprises 150 questions for 600 marks. As per the NDA exam pattern 2025, there will be a negative marking of one-third marks in both papers. Candidates who score marks equal to or more than the NDA 2025 cut-off marks will be called for the SSB interview.

NDA 2025 Selection Process - SSB Interview

Candidates who clear the NDA exam 2025 will be called for the SSB interview at various selection centres. NDA SSB Interview is a five day process held at Indian Armed Force selection centres. NDA SSB day 1 comprises a Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT) and an Officer Intelligence Rating Test (OIR). Shortlisted candidates on day 1 are retained at the selection centre for the next four days.

The further NDA interview process comprises Psychology Tests, Group Testing Officers Task (GTO), Personal Interviews and a Conference of the NDA selection process. There is no specific syllabus of 2025 NDA for the interview round. For more details, candidates can check the table provided below.

NDA Selection Process 2025: Stepwise Selection Process

Stages

Tests

Screening

  • Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT)

  • Officer Intelligence Rating Test (OIR)

Psychological Tests

  • Thematic Apperception Test

  • Word Association Test

  • Situation Reaction Test

  • Self Description Test

Group Testing Officers Task (GTO)

  • Group Discussion

  • Group Planning Exercise

  • Progressive Group Task

  • Half Group Task

  • Individual Obstacles Task

  • Command Task

  • Snake Race and Group Obstacle Race

Personal Interview

Personal Interview with Officers

Conference

It comprises interaction with all board members including GTO, psychologist, board president and others

Quick Links:

NDA SSB Selection Centres 2025

Candidates appearing for NDA 2025 must check selection centres from the table mentioned below.

List of SSB Interview Centres

Branch

SSC Centres

Indian Air Force (IAF)

  • 1 AFSB Dehradun

  • 2 AFSB Mysore

  • 3 AFSB Gandhi Nagar

  • 4 AFSB Varanasi

Indian Navy

  • NSB Coimbatore

  • 12 SSB Bangalore

  • 33 SSB Bhopal

Indian Army

  • Selection Center East Allahabad

  • Selection Center Central Bhopal

  • Selection Center South Bangalore

NDA Selection Process 2025 - Medical Examination

Recommended candidates from the SSB interview of the NDA selection process will be called for medical examination. In the SSB medical exam, candidates will be tested on various factors like height, weight, physical fitness and others. Candidates declared physically fit in all respects will be commissioned as Cadets in various academies of the Indian Army Forces.

Documents Required for NDA Selection Process 2025

Candidates appearing for the NDA interview process at SCN have to carry the below-mentioned documents.

  • Original 10th pass certificate or equivalent in support of date of birth

  • Original 10+2 pass certificate or equivalent in support of educational qualification

  • Valid Photo ID proof

  • Caste certificate if belonging to SC, ST, OBC etc

  • SSB call letter

NDA Selection Process 2025 - Final Merit List

  • To get acquainted with the Indian Armed Forces, candidates need to secure a minimum NDA cut off 2025 to get an SSB call letter.

  • Candidates appearing for the Indian Air Force have to qualify Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS).

  • The final result of the NDA 2025 selection process will be prepared on the basis of performance in the written exam and SSB interview.

NDA Selection Process 2025 - Final Call

The exam authorities will issue the NDA final call letter to join the course. The final call letter of the NDA 2025 will be issued after the entire selection process is over. UPSC will issue the final call letter to the candidates who cleared all the levels of the NDA selection process.

NDA Selection Process 2025 - Reasons for candidate’s disqualification

  • Candidates previously rejected on the basis of medical standards are not allowed to attend the SSB interview of the NDA selection process.

  • Candidates who were withdrawn previously from NDA/NA on medical grounds or left the training voluntarily will be eligible for admission only if they qualify for the medical fitness test.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who conducts the NDA exam?

The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

2. What are the different stages of the NDA selection procedure 2025?

As per the selection procedure of NDA 2025, the stages include written examination, SSB interview, medical examination, and the final merit list.

3. What is the minimum age limit to apply for NDA 2025?

The minimum age limit for NDA 1 is 16.5 years.

4. Is the medical examination compulsory for NDA selection 2025?

Yes, the medical examination is one of the important stages of the NDA Selection procedure 2025.

5. What are the different branches of NDA?

The different branches of NDA include the Indian Air Force (IAF), the Indian Army and the Indian Navy.

6. Is the NDA selection procedure for the IAF, Indian Army and Indian Navy the same?

Yes, the selection procedure of NDA 2025 for all the branches is the same.

7. What are the documents required in the NDA selection procedure 2025?

Candidates need to submit class 10th and 12th certificates, valid photo ID, SSB call letter and caste certificate (if applicable) during the NDA selection procedure 2025.

8. What are the different stages of an SSB interview?

The different stages of the NDA SSB interview are screening. psychological Tests, Group Testing Officers Task (GTO), Personal Interview and conference.

9. I am medically not physically fit. Can I apply for NDA 2025?

If a candidate is not physically fit as per the NDA selection parameters, they cannot apply for NDA.

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Questions related to NDA

Have a question related to NDA ?

According to the updated age requirements, you are qualified for NDA II 2025 if your birthday is April 2006 (however there is some disagreement among sources).  According to the most recent revisions, applicants born between January 2, 2006, and January 1, 2009 (age 16.5–19.5 years), including April 2006, are eligible.  However, other sites mention January 2, 2007–January 1, 2010, therefore check the formal announcement (anticipated by April–May 2025) for exact dates.

No, you're not eligible for NDA 2 2025 since you were born on 13th December 2006. The age limit for NDA 2 2025 is between 2nd January 2007 and 1st January 2010.

However, you're eligible for NDA 1 2026.


Cracking the NDA (National Defence Academy) exam in the first attempt requires a well-structured preparation strategy, unwavering dedication, and a positive mindset. It's a competitive exam, but with the right approach, success is achievable.

Firstly, understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. The NDA exam consists of two main papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The GAT is further divided into English and General Knowledge. Go through the detailed syllabus for each subject, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and plan your study schedule accordingly. Knowing what to study is the foundation of your preparation.

Next, focus on building a strong foundation in the fundamentals. Ensure your basic concepts in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, Economics, and English grammar are clear. NCERT books for classes 11th and 12th are invaluable resources for this. Consistent and regular study is key; aim for daily study sessions rather than last-minute cramming.

Practice previous years' question papers extensively. This will familiarize you with the exam pattern, the types of questions asked, the difficulty level, and the time constraints. Solving these papers will also help you identify your weak areas so you can focus on improving them. Time management is crucial in the NDA exam, so practice solving papers within the stipulated time limit.

Develop effective time management skills. During your preparation, learn to allocate time wisely to each subject. In the exam hall, stick to your planned schedule and don't spend too much time on a single question. Accuracy and speed are both important. Regular mock tests that simulate the actual exam environment will help you hone these skills.

Stay updated on current affairs and improve your general knowledge. Read newspapers, magazines, and follow reliable online sources to stay informed about national and international events, science and technology, sports, and other relevant topics. A good grasp of current affairs is essential for scoring well in the General Knowledge section.

Finally, maintain a positive attitude and take care of your physical and mental well-being. Believe in your preparation and stay motivated. Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly. A healthy mind and body are crucial for effective learning and performing under pressure. If needed, seek guidance from mentors or join study groups for motivation and support. Consistent effort and a strategic approach will significantly increase your chances of cracking the NDA exam in your first attempt.

Yes, with a DOB of December 20, 2006, you are eligible for NDA 1, 2026 as you’ll be between 16.5 to 19.5 years old in April 2026.

NDA 1, 2026 Exam is in April 2026.

Application starts around December 2025.

Hii,

Your birth date is September 26, 2008, and you are in Class 11. For NDA II 2026, you must have been born between January 2, 2008 and January 1, 2011. You are qualified depending on age, but you must be in Class 12 or have passed it.

You are also eligible for NDA I 2027, which requires a birth date between 02/07/2007 and 01/07/2010. You are now in Class 11, thus you cannot apply. You can apply while in Class 12 or after passing it.

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