UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026 UPSC just dropped the NDA I Recruitment 2026 notification, and there are 394 spots up for grabs in the National Defence Academy and the Naval Academy. If youβre dreaming about joining the Army, Navy, or Air Force as an officer, this is your shot. Theyβre looking for people who are disciplined, motivated, sharp, and ready to serve the country with real commitment and guts.
The process isnβt easyβfirst, thereβs the written exam, then the SSB interview, a medical checkup, and finally the merit list. If youβve finished or are in your final year of 10+2 with Physics and Math (for Air Force and Navy), or any stream at all (for the Army), you can throw your hat in the ring.
The notification spells out everything you need to knowβage limits, what you shouldβve studied, physical requirements, how the exam works, and how to apply. With nearly 400 openings, this is a solid chance for anyone serious about a future in defence. Just make sure you apply online through the UPSC portal before the deadline, and keep an eye on their official site for any new updates.
UPSC NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026 β All Details for 394 Posts
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official Notification No. 3/2026-NDA-I dated 10.12.2025 for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I) 2026. This prestigious recruitment cycle is a major opportunity for young candidates across India who aspire to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force as commissioned officers. Recognized as one of the most rigorous and respected defence entrance pathways, the NDA & NA examination selects candidates based on academic merit, discipline, leadership ability, and physical excellence. This year, UPSC is recruiting 394 posts, offering a structured, full-time, and permanent career in the nationβs defence forces.
The recruitment process includes a national-level written examination, followed by the SSB Intelligence and Personality Test, and a comprehensive medical examination. Selected candidates will undergo elite military training at the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla (Pune), or Naval Academy, Ezhimala. These postings are available across India, giving candidates the opportunity to serve the nation in various strategic and operational roles.
Table of Contents
Stay tuned to the official site or https://2pdfonline.com/ for updates!
UPSC NDA & NA (I) 2026 β Quick Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Notification Number | 3/2026-NDA-I |
| Notification Release Date | 10.12.2025 |
| Job Classification | Central Government Defence Recruitment |
| Employment Type | Regular Basis |
| Total Vacancies | 394 Posts |
| Exam Title | National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination (I) 2026 |
| Work Location | All Over India |
| Application Start Date | 10.12.2025 |
| Application End Date | 30.12.2025 |
| Mode of Application | Online Submission |
Vacancy Structure β UPSC NDA & NA 2026
The 394 vacancies are distributed across different academies and wings. Candidates should carefully review the available posts to identify the most suitable division.
National Defence Academy (NDA)
Army Wing
| Gender | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Male | 198 |
| Female | 10 |
Navy Wing
| Gender | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Male | 37 |
| Female | 5 |
Air Force Wing
| Category | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 90 | 2 |
| Ground Duties (Technical) | 16 | 2 |
| Ground Duties (Non-Technical) | 8 | 2 |
Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme)
| Gender | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Male | 21 |
| Female | 3 |
These vacancies reflect UPSCβs ongoing effort to promote gender inclusion, leadership diversity, and equal participation in defence services.
UPSC NDA & NA 2026 β Eligibility Criteria
UPSC has laid out strict eligibility norms, ensuring only qualified candidates take part in the selection process. Requirements include education, age, marital status, and physical fitness.
Educational Qualification (Highlighted)
| Wing / Academy | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| Army Wing (NDA) | Must have passed 12th standard (10+2 pattern) or equivalent qualification conducted by a recognized State Education Board or University. |
| Air Force & Naval Wings (NDA) and 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme (Naval Academy) | Must have passed 12th standard with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics under the 10+2 scheme or an equivalent qualification from a recognized Board or University. |
Candidates awaiting their Class 12 results may also apply, provided they produce proof of passing before the final SSB interview stage.
Age Limit (Important Highlight)
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
- Applicants must be born between 1 July 2007 and 1 July 2010 (both dates inclusive).
- Candidates are not permitted to marry before or during training.
This age range ensures candidates begin their military journey at a formative stage, allowing for comprehensive defence training.
UPSC NDA Salary Structure β Defence Pay Matrix
A defence officerβs salary follows the 7th Central Pay Commission guidelines, offering attractive pay, allowances, and long-term benefits.
| Rank | Level | Salary Range (βΉ) |
|---|---|---|
| Lieutenant to Major | Level 10 | 56,100 β 1,77,500 |
| Lieutenant Colonel to Major General | Level 12A | 1,21,200 β 2,12,400 |
| Lieutenant General (HAG) | Level 15 | 1,82,200 β 2,24,100 |
| Lt. General (HAG+ Scale) | Level 16 | 2,05,400 β 2,24,400 |
| VCOAS / Army Commander / Lt. Gen | Level 17 | 2,25,000 (Fixed) |
| Chief of Army Staff (COAS) | Level 18 | 2,50,000 (Fixed) |
Along with these salary levels, officers receive additional benefits such as:
- Uniform allowance
- Free medical facilities
- Leave travel concessions
- Canteen facilities
- Pension and post-retirement benefits
UPSC NDA & NA 2026 β Selection Procedure
The UPSC NDA selection process is known for its multi-layered evaluation techniques designed to identify candidates with potential for leadership and discipline.
Stage 1: Written Examination
The written test contains two essential papers:
Mathematics
- Total Marks: 300
- Covers algebra, trigonometry, geometry, calculus, and mathematics fundamentals.
General Ability Test (GAT)
- Total Marks: 600
- Contains English grammar, comprehension, general knowledge, science, current affairs, and defence-related awareness.
Stage 2: SSB Interview β Intelligence & Personality Assessment
This five-day evaluation includes:
- Psychological testing
- Group tasks
- Leadership evaluation
- Personal interview
- Communication skills assessment
Stage 3: Medical Examination
All candidates must meet the medical and physical standards outlined by the Ministry of Defence.
Examination Centres in Tamil Nadu
Candidates from Tamil Nadu can choose from the following UPSC-listed centres:
- Chennai
- Coimbatore
- Madurai
- Tiruchirappalli
- Vellore
Application Fee Details
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Female / SC / ST Candidates | Nil |
| General / OBC / EWS / Other Applicants | βΉ100 |
| Payment Method | Online (Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI) |
How to Submit the UPSC NDA Application
- Visit the UPSC official website.
- Open the NDA & NA (I) 2026 notification link.
- Complete Part-I Registration by entering personal and academic data.
- Proceed with Part-II Registration, where you upload your photograph, signature, and required documents.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit the form and download the acknowledgement for future reference.
π UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026Β &Β Apply Link TableΒ π
| π Resource | π Apply/View Link |
|---|---|
| π§Ύ UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026 Official Career Page | Click Here Link |
| πΒ UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026Β NoticeΒ Link | Click Here Link |
| π UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026Β Apply Link | Apply Now Link |
Stay tuned to the official site or https://2pdfonline.com/ for updates!
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of Application | 10.12.2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30.12.2025 |
| Examination Date | 12.04.2026 |
Summary
The UPSC NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026 provides an excellent opportunity for youth across India seeking a highly respected and challenging career in defence services. With 394 vacancies, a clear eligibility framework, strong salary prospects, and national-level selection standards, this notification is ideal for ambitious candidates aiming for a disciplined and honourable profession. The UPSC has opened doors for both male and female aspirants, strengthening gender representation within the armed forces.
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