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The UPSC has published the detailed NDA syllabus for 2026 which has two main papers; Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The Mathematics paper touches on important issues including Algebra, Calculus, Matrices, Trigonometry, Analytics Geometry, and Statistics, the GAT section include English, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Events.
The NDA exam is as follows: a total of 900 marks (300 for Mathematics: 120 questions, and 600 GAT: 150 questions). The exam is held twice every year and final selection is based on the written test and then the SSB interview. A candidate should have through knowledge of the NDA syllabus to prepare himself/herself accordingly. Below is the breakdown of the syllabus followed by the exam pattern.
What is the NDA Exam?
The NDA exam, conducted twice a year by UPSC, selects candidates to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy. Many aspirants now prefer NDA coaching online to prepare effectively for this competitive exam while managing their academic schedule.
The process includes a written test followed by an interview at the SSB. Both stages assess a candidate’s academic knowledge, reasoning ability, and general awareness.
It is essential to clear both the written exam and the SSB interview to gain admission into the NDA. The written exam consists of two papers — Mathematics (Paper 1) and the General Ability Test (GAT – Paper 2).
How to Download Syllabus of NDA Examination Through Official Website
The official NDA syllabus for 2026 is available on the UPSC website (upsc.gov.in) under the “Examinations” section. Candidates can download the syllabus PDF directly, ensuring they refer to the most accurate and updated version.
Is JEE and NDA Syllabus the Same?
The JEE (Main/Advanced) and NDA syllabus overlap in Maths (algebra, trigonometry, calculus) and Physics (mechanics, electricity), but differences exist:
- JEE: Advanced, engineering-focused, with deeper concepts.
- NDA: Class 12-level, includes English, History, Geography, and simpler Maths.
NDA’s broader scope makes it less intensive but requires diverse preparation, unlike JEE’s technical depth.
NDA Exam Pattern 2026
The NDA written exam consists of two papers:
| Paper | Marks | Duration |
| Mathematics (1) | 300 | 2.5 hrs |
| General Ability Test (GAT) (2) | 600 | 2.5 hrs |
Negative Marking:
One-third of the marks allotted to the question are deducted for every incorrect answer. Accuracy is crucial.
NDA Mathematics Syllabus Weightage
| Topic | Weightage | Questions |
| Algebra | 25% | 30–35 |
| Trigonometry | 17% | 15–20 |
| Calculus | 21% | 20–25 |
| Analytical Geometry | 17% | 15–20 |
| Statistics and Probability | 12% | 10–15 |
| Matrices and Vectors | 8% | 8–12 |
Mathematics Syllabus of NDA Examination 2026
| Topic | Subtopics |
| Algebra | Sets, quadratic equations, complex numbers, logarithms, permutations, combinations |
| Trigonometry | Ratios, identities, inverse functions, heights, and distances |
| Calculus | Limits, continuity, differentiation, integration, maxima, and minima |
| Analytical Geometry | 2D (lines, circles), 3D geometry (spheres, cones) |
| Vector Algebra | Scalar and vector products, applications in geometry |
| Statistics and Probability | Mean, median, variance, probability distributions (binomial, Poisson) |
NDA General Ability Test (GAT) Syllabus Weightage
| Section | Marks | Questions | Weightage |
| English | 200 | 50 | 33.33% |
| General Knowledge | 400 | 100 | 66.67% |
English Syllabus for NDA Examination
| Topic | Subtopics | Weightage | Notes |
| Grammar | Tenses, prepositions, sentence correction | 25% (~12–13 questions, ~50 marks) | Focus on error spotting, tense usage, and preposition rules. Practice daily. |
| Vocabulary | Synonyms, antonyms, idioms, one-word substitutions | 25% (~12–13 questions, ~50 marks) | Build word banks using apps; practice idioms and substitutions for variety. |
| Comprehension | Reading passages, answering questions | 30% (~15 questions, ~60 marks) | Improve reading speed; practice passage-based questions from past papers. |
| Sentence Arrangement | Jumbled sentences, cohesive writing | 20% (~10 questions, ~40 marks) | Practice rearranging sentences to enhance logical flow and coherence. |
NDA General Knowledge Syllabus Weightage
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Weightage |
| Physics | 25–30 | 100–120 | 25–30% |
| Chemistry | 15–20 | 60–80 | 15–20% |
| General Science | 10–15 | 40–60 | 10–15% |
| History | 20–25 | 80–100 | 20–25% |
| Geography | 20–25 | 80–100 | 20–25% |
| Current Events | 10–15 | 40–60 | 10–15% |
NDA SSB Interview
The NDA SSB (Services Selection Board) Interview is a crucial part of the selection process for candidates who clear the NDA written examination. It evaluates the candidate’s personality, leadership qualities, intelligence, and physical fitness. The interview process is rigorous and spans over 5 days.
SSB Interview (900 marks) is a two-stage process:
Stage 1: Screening Test (Day 1)
| Component | Description |
| Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test | Verbal and non-verbal reasoning to test analytical abilities. |
| Picture Perception and Description Test | Blurred picture shown for 30 seconds, story writing and narration. |
The Stage 1 Outcome:
- Candidates who clear proceed to Stage 2.
- Unqualified candidates are sent back on the same day.
Stage 2: Detailed Assessment (Day 2 to Day 5)
1. Psychological Tests (Day 2)
| Test | Description |
| Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) | Write a story based on 12 pictures shown. |
| Word Association Test (WAT) | Write first thoughts for 60 words shown for 15 seconds. |
| Situation Reaction Test (SRT) | Write responses to 60 situations in 30 minutes. |
| Self-Description Test (SD) | Write about oneself, opinions of family, teachers, friends. |
2. Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO) (Day 3 & 4)
| Task | Description |
| Group Discussion (GD) | Discuss topics of social, national, or international relevance. |
| Group Planning Exercise (GPE) | Plan solutions for a hypothetical problem as a group. |
| Progressive Group Task (PGT) | Tackle structured problems as a team. |
| Half Group Task (HGT) | Similar to PGT, but with a smaller group. |
| Individual Obstacles | Complete 10 obstacles within a set time. |
| Command Task | Lead a small group through an obstacle. |
| Lecturette | Speak on a given topic for 3 minutes. |
| Final Group Task (FGT) | Work as a team on a complex obstacle. |
3. Personal Interview (Day 4 or 5)
- One-on-one interaction assessing:
- Personal background
- Academic achievements
- Motivation for joining the Armed Forces
- General knowledge and problem-solving
4. Conference (Day 5)
- Assessors gather to discuss the candidate’s performance.
- Final interview with the entire board.
Final Selection and Medical Examination
- Final merit list considers both written exam scores and SSB performance.
- Recommended candidates undergo a medical examination.
- Only medically fit candidates are selected for NDA training.
Key Takeaways:
- The SSB Interview tests intelligence, character, leadership, and personality.
- Practice group activities, improve communication, and maintain physical fitness.
- Be honest, confident, and composed during the interview.
NDA Subjects for Science Students
Science students are familiar with Maths, Physics, and Chemistry, covering ~70% of the NDA syllabus. They must strengthen English and General Knowledge (History, Geography, Current Events) for GAT. NCERT and current affairs resources ensure balanced preparation.
What is the Syllabus of NDA Examination for Arts Students?
The NDA syllabus is the same for all streams. Arts students may find Maths challenging but excel in History, Geography, and English. They should:
- Study NCERT Maths (Class 10–12) for Paper 1.
- Leverage strengths in GAT’s History, Geography, and Current Events.
- Practice quantitative sections regularly.
Resources for NDA Preparation
- Books: NCERT textbooks, Pathfinder for NDA, Arihant’s NDA guide, Manorama Yearbook.
- Online Platforms: Unacademy, BYJU’S, Physics Wallah, YouTube channels.
- Free Resources: UPSC website (syllabus, past papers), NDA syllabus PDF.
- NDA Coaching: Optional, based on self-study progress.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Negative Marking: Prioritize accuracy.
- Neglecting GAT: Balance Maths and GAT preparation.
- Last-Minute Study: Start early with a structured plan.
- Skipping Revision: Revisit formulas, concepts, and current events regularly.
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Know the topics thoroughly.
- Practice with Mock Tests: Enhance time management skills.
- Stay Updated: Regularly read newspapers and current affairs magazines.
- Physical Fitness: Engage in daily workouts to prepare for SSB.
- Build Conceptual Clarity: Use NCERT books for core subjects.
Conclusion
Cracking the exam will be quite difficult if your mate doesn’t master the Syllabus of NDA Examination and exam pattern for 2026. Studying through a systematic study plan, practicing regularly and keeping the latest exam instructions in mind will help the candidate improve the success rate. Study hard and keep your goal in mind of joining the Indian Armed Forces with the right mentors . At Sukhoi Academy we offer everymatic support including form filling, preparation for NDA exam and interview preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Includes Mathematics (algebra, calculus, etc.) and GAT (English, Physics, History, etc.), based on Class 10–12 NCERT.
Download from upsc.gov.in under “Examinations.”
Yes, but Arts students focus on Maths, while Science students strengthen GAT.
Improve communication, fitness, and practice mock interviews.
Maths: Algebra (25–29%), Calculus (17–21%); GAT: Physics (25–30%), History/Geography (20–25% each).
