The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the online application schedule for the NDA / NA-I Examination 2026, offering a prestigious opportunity for young candidates to join the Army, Navy, Air Force, or the Naval Academy. The National Defence Academy and Naval Academy examination is one of India’s most respected defence entry pathways, allowing students to start their military career immediately after Class 12.
The 2026 recruitment cycle includes 394 vacancies, and candidates are encouraged to apply within the given dates after checking all eligibility criteria and age limits.
Important Dates – NDA / NA-I 2026
-
Online Application Start: 10 December 2025
-
Online Application Last Date: 30 December 2025
-
Last Date for Fee Payment: 30 December 2025
-
Written Exam Date: 12 April 2026
-
Admit Card Release: Before the examination
Applicants should keep checking official updates to stay informed about any changes.
Application Fee Details
-
General / OBC: ₹100
-
SC / ST: No fee
-
All Female Candidates: No fee
The fee can be paid using Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, IMPS, Mobile Wallets, or similar online modes.
Age Limit for NDA / NA-I 2026
Candidates must be born between:
2 July 2007 and 1 July 2010
Age relaxations may apply as per UPSC rules.
Total Vacancies – 394 Posts
UPSC has released a combined vacancy list for the NDA and the Naval Academy. The posts are classified across different defence wings, giving candidates multiple career paths.
NDA / NA-I 2026 – Vacancy Breakdown (No Table Used)
-
National Defence Academy – Army Wing: 208 vacancies
-
National Defence Academy – Navy Wing: 42 vacancies
-
National Defence Academy – Air Force Wing: 120 vacancies
-
Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme – Only for Male Candidates): 24 vacancies
Eligibility Criteria – Post Wise
Army Wing (NDA)
Candidates must have passed Class 12 from a recognized board in any stream.
Navy Wing (NDA)
Applicants should have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
Air Force Wing (NDA)
Candidates must have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics. Applicants should also meet physical standards prescribed for Air Force entry.
Naval Academy – 10+2 Cadet Entry
A Class 12 qualification with Physics and Mathematics is required.
All candidates must meet physical fitness standards and medical guidelines specified by UPSC and defence authorities.
How to Apply Online for UPSC NDA / NA-I 2026
Follow the steps below to complete the online application smoothly:
-
Visit the official UPSC application portal.
-
Look for the active link titled “NDA / NA-I Examination 2026”.
-
Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) process, if not already done.
-
Log in using your registration credentials to open the application form.
-
Enter your personal information, academic details, and communication information.
-
Upload your photo, signature, and required documents in the prescribed formats.
-
Pay the application fee, if applicable, using an online payment method.
-
Review all the details carefully before submitting the form.
-
Submit the application and download your confirmation page for future reference.
Important Instructions for Applicants
-
Double-check your date of birth and educational details before submission.
-
Ensure your photograph and signature are clear and meet the required standards.
-
Keep multiple copies of the submitted form for later use.
-
Stay updated regarding admit cards and exam instructions.
-
Read the eligibility criteria thoroughly before applying.
FAQs – UPSC NDA / NA-I Recruitment 2026
Q1. What is the total number of vacancies in NDA / NA-I 2026?
There are 394 vacancies across Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Naval Academy.
Q2. What is the age requirement for NDA 2026?
Candidates must be born between 2 July 2007 and 1 July 2010.
Q3. I am a female candidate. Can I apply for NDA 2026?
Yes. Female candidates can apply for NDA entries (except the Naval Academy 10+2 Cadet Entry which is still restricted to male candidates).
Q4. What is the qualification required for Army Wing?
A Class 12 pass from any recognized board is required.
Q5. When is the NDA / NA-I 2026 written exam scheduled?
The exam will be held on 12 April 2026.
Q6. How much is the application fee?
The fee is ₹100 for General and OBC candidates, while SC, ST, and all female candidates are exempted.
Q7. When will the admit card be released?
The admit card will be issued a few weeks before the exam.