"NDA 2025 Notification, Exam Pattern, and What’s New?"

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is one of the most prestigious and competitive examinations in India, offering young aspirants a gateway to serve in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. With the release of the NDA 2025 notification, it's crucial for candidates to understand the updated exam pattern, eligibility criteria, and any new changes introduced this year. Additionally, choosing the best defence coaching in Dehradun can significantly enhance your preparation and increase your chances of success.

📅 NDA 2025 Important Dates

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the schedule for the NDA 2025 examination:

NDA 1 Exam Date: April 13, 2025

NDA 2 Exam Date: September 14, 2025

Application Form Availability: December 11, 2024 – December 31, 2024

Admit Card Release: First week of April 2025

Result Declaration: Expected in May 2025 ​

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📝 NDA 2025 Exam Pattern

The NDA examination comprises two main stages:

1. Written Examination

The written test is divided into two papers:

Paper I – Mathematics:

Duration: 2.5 hours

Total Marks: 300

Number of Questions: 120

Marking Scheme: +2.5 for correct answers, -0.83 for incorrect answers​

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Paper II – General Ability Test (GAT):

Duration: 2.5 hours

Total Marks: 600

Number of Questions: 150 (50 English + 100 General Knowledge)

Marking Scheme: +4 for correct answers, -1.33 for incorrect answers​

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The GAT section includes topics such as:

English: Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension

General Knowledge:

Physics: 25% weightage

Chemistry: 15% weightage

History: 20% weightage

Geography: 20% weightage

General Science: 10% weightage

Current Events: 10% weightage ​

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2. SSB Interview

Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview, which assesses the candidate's personality, intelligence, and suitability for a career in the armed forces. The interview consists of:

Stage 1: Screening Test (Officer Intelligence Rating and Picture Perception Test)

Stage 2: Psychological Tests (TAT, WAT, SRT, SD), Group Testing Officer Tasks (Group Discussions, Group Planning Exercise, Progressive Group Tasks, Command Task, Final Group Task), Personal Interview ​

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🧭 NDA 2025 Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the NDA 2025 examination, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Age Limit:

NDA 1: Candidates born between July 2, 2006, and July 1, 2009

NDA 2: Candidates born between January 2, 2006, and January 1, 2009 ​

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Educational Qualification:

Army Wing: 12th class pass or equivalent

Air Force and Naval Wings: 12th class pass with Physics and Mathematics​

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Nationality:

Indian citizens

Subjects of Bhutan or Nepal

Tibetan refugees who came over to India before January 1, 1962

Persons of Indian origin who have migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries, Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, or Vietnam to permanently settle in India ​

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🔄 What's New in NDA 2025?

While the core structure of the NDA examination remains consistent, candidates should be aware of the following updates:

Inclusion of Female Candidates: For the first time, female candidates are eligible to apply for all wings of the NDA, including Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Increased Vacancies: A total of 404 vacancies have been announced for NDA 2025, with specific seats reserved for female candidates across various wings.

Updated Physical Standards: Revised height and weight requirements have been introduced for candidates from different regions, including those from Uttarakhand and the North Eastern states. ​

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🎯 Importance of Choosing the Best Defence Coaching in Dehradun

Preparing for the NDA examination requires a disciplined approach, comprehensive study material, and expert guidance. Dehradun, often referred to as the 'Education Hub of India,' is home to several reputed defence coaching institutes that offer specialized training for NDA aspirants.​

Why Opt for Coaching in Dehradun?

Expert Faculty: Institutes in Dehradun employ experienced faculty members, many of whom are ex-defence personnel, providing insights into the examination and selection process.

Structured Curriculum: A well-organized curriculum covering all subjects of the NDA exam ensures systematic preparation.

Regular Mock Tests: Frequent mock tests simulate the actual exam environment, helping students manage time and stress effectively.