The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the NDA & NA (I) Recruitment 2026. This prestigious recruitment examination is conducted to select eligible male and female candidates for admission to the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA). A total of 394 vacancies have been announced for the 157th NDA Course and the 119th Indian Naval Academy Course, which will commence from 1 January 2027.

The UPSC NDA and NA examination is one of the most respected entry-level opportunities for young candidates aspiring to serve the nation in the Indian Armed Forces. It offers a disciplined lifestyle, excellent career growth, leadership training, and attractive pay and allowances. Candidates who have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics are eligible to apply for this recruitment.

UPSC NDA NA Vacancy Details 2026

The total number of vacancies announced under UPSC NDA & NA (I) 2026 is 394. These vacancies are distributed across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Naval Academy as per service requirements.

• Army: 208 Posts (including 10 for female candidates)
• Navy: 42 Posts (including 5 for female candidates)
• Air Force Flying Branch: 92 Posts (including 2 for female candidates)
• Air Force Ground Duty (Technical): 18 Posts (including 2 for female candidates)
• Air Force Ground Duty (Non-Technical): 10 Posts (including 2 for female candidates)
• Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme): 24 Posts (including 3 for female candidates)

Educational Qualification

Candidates applying for UPSC NDA NA Recruitment 2026 must have passed Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. Candidates appearing in the 12th examination may also apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria at the time of admission.

Age Limit

The date of birth of candidates should not be earlier than 1 January 2007 and not later than 1 July 2010. Both male and female candidates must strictly fall within this age range to be eligible for the examination.

Physical Fitness Standards

Candidates must be physically and medically fit as per the standards prescribed by the armed forces. Physical fitness is essential to withstand the rigorous training at NDA and NA.

• Running: 2.4 km in 15 minutes
• Push-ups and Sit-ups: Minimum 20 each
• Chin-ups: Minimum 8
• Rope Climbing: Required
• Height for Ground Duty: Minimum 157.5 cm
• Height for Flying Branch: Minimum 81.5 cm (sitting height)

Selection Process

The selection process for UPSC NDA NA Recruitment 2026 is conducted in two main stages to assess the academic ability, personality, and leadership qualities of candidates.

• Written Examination
• SSB Interview

Written Examination Pattern

The written examination is conducted in offline mode and consists of multiple-choice questions. The examination is bilingual and conducted in both Hindi and English.

• Mathematics: 300 Marks (2.5 Hours)
• General Ability Test: 600 Marks (2.5 Hours)
• Total Marks: 900

Negative Marking

• Mathematics: 0.83 marks deducted per wrong answer
• General Ability Test: 1.33 marks deducted per wrong answer

Salary and Benefits

Candidates selected through UPSC NDA NA Recruitment 2026 will receive a salary as per the 7th Pay Commission. The starting salary is Rs. 56,100 per month, which can go up to Rs. 1,77,500 per month depending on rank and service. In addition to basic pay, candidates are entitled to various allowances such as DA, HRA, Transport Allowance, and other service-specific benefits.

Application Fee

• General and OBC Candidates: Rs. 100
• SC, ST, and Female Candidates: No Fee

How to Apply for UPSC NDA NA Recruitment 2026

• Visit the official UPSC website.
• Complete One Time Registration (OTR).
• Login using registered credentials.
• Select NDA & NA (I) Examination 2026.
• Fill the online application form carefully.
• Pay the application fee, if applicable.
• Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many vacancies are available in UPSC NDA NA Recruitment 2026?

A total of 394 vacancies have been announced.

2. Can female candidates apply for NDA 2026?

Yes, both male and female candidates are eligible.

3. What is the educational qualification required?

Candidates must have passed 12th with Physics and Mathematics.

4. What is the selection process for NDA NA?

The selection process includes a written examination followed by an SSB interview.

5. Is NDA NA a permanent government job?

Yes, it leads to a permanent commission in the Indian Armed Forces after successful training.