NDA 2 2026 Notification [Exam date, eligibility, syllabus and books]

NDA 2 2026 Notification

The UPSC will release the NDA 2 2026 Notification on 20th May for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force through the National Defence Academy (NDA). The NDA examination is one of the most prestigious national level defence entrance exams in India, conducted twice every year.

Through this article, candidates can check complete details related to NDA 2 2026 including notification date, application form, exam date, eligibility criteria, vacancies, syllabus, exam pattern, selection process, preparation tips, and the best books for exam preparation.

If you are planning to appear for NDA 2 2026, read this complete guide to stay updated with every important detail and start your preparation in the right direction.

The Examination will be conducted by the Union Public Service Commission on 13^th September, 2026 for admission to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of the NDA for the 158th Course, and for the 120th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC) commencing from 2nd July, 2027.

Eligibility Conditions:

Nationality : A candidate must be unmarried male and must be :
(i) a citizen of India, or
(ii) a subject of Bhutan, or
(iii) a subject of Nepal, or
(iv) a Tibetan refugee who came over to India before the 1st January, 1962 with the intention of permanently settling in India, or
(v) a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka and East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire and Ethiopia or Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.

Age Limits, Sex and Marital Status :
Unmarried male and female candidates born not earlier than 01st January, 2008 and not later than 1st January, 2011 are eligible. The date of birth accepted by the Commission is that entered in the Matriculation or Secondary School Leaving Certificate or in a certificate recognised by an Indian University as equivalent to Matriculation.

Vacancies:

The approximate number of vacancies (Tentative) to be filled on the results of this examination will be as under :

Educational Qualifications :
(i) For Army Wing of National Defence Academy : 12th Class pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination conducted by a State Education Board or a University.
(ii) For Air Force and Naval Wings of National Defence Academy and for the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at the Indian Naval Academy : 12th Class pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics conducted by a State Education Board or a University.

Note: Candidates who are appearing in the 12th Class under the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination can also apply for this examination.

How To Apply:

(i) Online registration will start from 20th May 2026.

(ii) Candidates are required to apply Online using the link www.upsconline.nic.in

(iii) Detailed instructions for filling up Online Applications are available at the end of this blog.

Exam Fee:

Candidates (excepting SC/ST candidates/Sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs specified in Note 2 below who are exempted from payment of fee) are required to pay a fee of Rs. 100/- (Rupees one hundred only) either by depositing the money in any Branch of SBI by cash, or by using net banking facility of State Bank of India or by using Visa/MasterCard/Rupay Credit/Debit Card.

Scheme Of Examination:

1. The subjects of the written examination, the time allowed and the maximum marks allotted to each subject will be as follows:

Syllabus:

Mathematics (Paper 01) :

Algebra, matrices and determinants, analytical geometry of two and three dimensions, trigonometry, differential calculus, integral calculus and differential equations, statistics and probability, vector algebra.

General Ability Test (Paper 02) :

This Paper will consist of two parts i.e. Part A and Part B.

Part A will include questions from English whereas Part will include questions based on General Knowledge. General Knowledge comprises of Physics, Chemistry, General Science, Current Affairs, Geography, History, Freedom Movement etc.

How To Prepare:

To crack the NDA exam, you need a clear strategy, good study material, and strong dedication. The 2026 edition of Mission NDA book has become a trusted and reliable choice for many aspirants. With its detailed coverage, practice questions, and easy explanations, Mission NDA helps you build both knowledge and confidence.

For candidates from a commerce background or those who struggle with the NDA Maths paper, the NDA Formula Book is highly recommended. It breaks down key concepts in a simple way and is the perfect tool for quick revision before the exam. Add both books to your study plan and move closer to your dream of joining the NDA.

Additionally, you are recommended to use NDA Countdown Mock Test papers to boost your preparation. This book is designed with a complete exam-oriented approach, featuring 20 full-length mock test papers created on the latest UPSC pattern. These papers replicates the real exam feel, helping students overcome exam anxiety and build accuracy over multiple practice cycles. Moreover, each mock test also comes with solutions that clearly explain answers, making it easier for candidates to identify their weaknesses and fix them before the exam.

 Important Dates:

NDA & NA (2) 2026 Official Notification : To Be Uploaded Soon

Instructions To Apply Online : Download PDF