NDA Exam Application Form 2026: Apply Online Today
The NDA Application Form for 2026 is the first step for aspiring candidates seeking admission to the prestigious National Defence Academy, marking an important stage in pursuing a career in the Indian Armed Forces. Issued by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the form provides details on eligibility, procedural requirements, and submission guidelines for both NDA 1 and NDA 2 exams. Familiarity with these details helps ensure a smooth application process in a highly competitive environment.
The NDA exam selects candidates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings, focusing on unmarried male and female applicants who have completed Class 12. The UPSC NDA 1 2026 application process opened on December 10, 2025, and will close on December 30, 2025. NDA 2 applications are expected to be accepted from May 20 to June 9, 2026. Eligibility criteria include an age between 16.5 and 19.5 years, with candidates for NDA 1 born between July 2, 2007, and July 1, 2010, a 10+2 pass or appearing status, and unmarried status.
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Step-by-Step Application Process: NDA Exam 2026
Applications are submitted online through upsc.gov.in in two parts: Part 1 registration and Part 2 completion.
Visit the UPSC portal, select Online Application, and click the NDA/NA link for One-Time Registration (OTR) using your email and mobile number.
Fill in personal details including:
Name
Date of birth
Gender
Father's and mother's name
Address
Category
Generate a Registration ID after completing the details.
Upload required documents:
Photograph (20-300 KB, JPG, recent, white background)
Signature (blue or black ink, not in capital letters)
Photo ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc., 20-300 KB, PDF)
Select your exam center preferences.
Proceed to fee payment to complete the application.
NDA Exam Application Fee
| Category | Fee Details | Payment Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / OBC | ₹100 | Online (debit/credit card, net banking) or offline (SBI challan) | Payment is made after uploading documents. Successful payment generates a downloadable form and receipt. Double-check all entries as no corrections are allowed after submission. |
| SC / ST, Females, Sons of JCOs/ORs | Exempt | N/A | Same document upload process applies. Receipt is generated after successful submission. |
Required Documents for NDA Exam 2026
Prepare scanned copies carefully:
Recent passport-size photograph with a white background
Signature on white paper
Valid PID (Aadhaar, PAN, or Passport)
Class 10 certificate as proof of date of birth
10+2 marksheet if applicable
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Uploading photos or signatures in the wrong format
Entering an incorrect date of birth
Missing fee exemption claims
Submitting multiple applications in the same cycle, which cancels all entries
Failing to print the submitted form for reference during the SSB interview.
Eligibility Nuances for 2026
Physical standards require minimum height of 157 cm for Army and 162.5 cm for Air Force.
Candidates must not have any major ailments.
Female candidates have been eligible since 2021.
An engineering background is advantageous for Air Force and Navy applicants.
Final merit lists are prepared after medical examinations, with training conducted at NDA Pune.