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Looking for a prestigious defence career after 12th? UPSC has released the NDA & NA Examination (I) 2026 notification for Army, Navy, and Air Force wings. Check eligibility, vacancies, salary, age limit, selection process, and how to apply online in a simple and friendly way.
UPSC NDA & NA Examination (I) 2026 – Your Gateway to a Defence Career
Hi friends 👋
Great news for aspiring defence personnel! The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I) 2026 notification. If you envision a future serving the nation in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force, this is an exceptional opportunity to embark on that journey right after completing your 12th grade.
Let’s break down the essential details provided in the official notification in a simple, easy-to-understand format.
UPSC NDA & NA Examination 2026 – Job Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Role | NDA & Naval Academy Cadet |
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Qualification | 12th Pass / Appearing |
| Experience | Not Required |
| Salary | ₹56,100 per month (during training & after commissioning) |
| Job Type | Central Government Job |
| Location | All India |
| Skills / Requirements | Physical fitness, leadership, discipline, confidence |
About UPSC
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India’s premier body responsible for conducting examinations for recruitment into various prestigious services, including Civil Services and Defence Services. Each year, UPSC conducts the NDA examination, which is renowned as one of the most respected entry-level assessments for defence services.
Job Role – NDA & NA Cadet
Candidates who succeed in the NDA & NA Examination will undergo rigorous training at either the National Defence Academy (Pune) or the Indian Naval Academy (Ezhimala). Successful candidates will be commissioned as officers in the following branches:
– Indian Army
– Indian Navy
– Indian Air Force
Educational Qualifications
– Army Wing (NDA): Completion of 12th class (10+2) from a recognized board.
– Navy & Air Force Wings (NDA) and Naval Academy: Completion of 12th class with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM). Candidates currently in 12th grade are also eligible to apply.
Vacancies – NDA & NA 2026
| Wing / Academy | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| NDA – Army | 208 |
| NDA – Navy | 42 |
| NDA – Air Force (Flying & Ground Duties) | 120 |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry) | 24 |
| Total Vacancies | 394 |
Note: Vacancies are provisional and may change based on training capacity.
Salary Details (Pay Scale)
– During Training: ₹56,100 per month (Level 10, Pay Matrix)
– After Commissioning:
– Basic Pay: ₹56,100
– Additional elements include Military Service Pay (MSP), DA, HRA, TA, and other allowances.
Note: Salary significantly increases with rank and years of service.
Age Limit
– Minimum Age: Candidates should be born on or after July 1, 2007.
– Maximum Age: Candidates should be born on or before July 1, 2010.
– Please note: Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible to apply.
Job Role & Responsibilities
Successful candidates will be expected to:
– Undergo rigorous military training.
– Develop leadership and officer-like qualities.
– Serve the nation with integrity in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
– Maintain physical fitness, discipline, and ethical conduct.
Other Benefits
Selected candidates will receive numerous benefits, such as:
– Free accommodation, uniform, and medical facilities.
– Subsidized meals during training.
– Pension & retirement benefits.
– Opportunities for adventure training and international exposure.
– A prestigious lifestyle filled with respect and honor.
Selection Process
The selection procedure consists of two major stages:
1. Written Examination (UPSC):
– Mathematics – 300 Marks
– General Ability Test – 600 Marks
2. SSB Interview:
– Stage I: OIR & PPDT
– Stage II: Interview, Psychology Test, GTO Tasks & Conference
Final selection will be based on the cumulative results of the written exam, SSB interview, medical fitness, and merit.
Application Fee
– For General/OBC candidates: ₹100
– For SC/ST/Female candidates: No Fee
How to Apply for UPSC NDA & NA 2026
To apply for the UPSC NDA & NA Examination (I) 2026, follow these steps:
1. Click the Apply Online link provided.
2. Visit OFFICIAL WEBSITE LINK.
3. Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR).
4. Fill out the NDA & NA Examination (I) 2026 application form.
5. Upload your photo, signature, and all required documents.
6. Pay the application fee (if applicable).
7. Submit the form and take a printout for your records.
⏰ Last Date to Apply: December 30, 2025 (6:00 PM)
Important Dates (Quick View)
– Notification Release: December 10, 2025
– Last Date to Apply: December 30, 2025
– Exam Date: April 12, 2026
Final Words
If you possess the passion for wearing the uniform and serving your nation with pride, then the UPSC NDA & NA Examination 2026 is the perfect stepping stone into your defence career. Begin your preparation early and make sure to apply before the deadline!
Important Links
– Apply here: APPLY NOW
– View Official Notification: NOTIFICATION PDF
– Official Website: OFFICIAL WEBSITE LINK
Disclaimer: We do not charge any fees for providing this information. This post is for informational purposes only, and the details have been compiled from official sources.