The Union Public Service Commission has officially released the UPSC NDA (2) 2026 Notification for admission into the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA). Candidates who dream of serving the nation through the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force now have a golden opportunity to apply for one of India’s most prestigious defence examinations.
According to the official notification, the online application process started on 20 May 2026 and eligible unmarried male and female candidates can apply online till 09 June 2026. The NDA 2 2026 written examination will be conducted on 13 September 2026 across various examination centres in India.
This recruitment drive aims to fill 394 vacancies in the Army, Navy, Air Force Wings of NDA, and Naval Academy through the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme.
Candidates preparing for defence jobs after Class 12 should carefully read all details related to eligibility, vacancy distribution, age limit, selection process, exam pattern, salary, and application procedure before submitting the online application form.
UPSC NDA (2) 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission |
| Exam Name | National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination-II, 2026 |
| Notification Number | 10/2026-NDA-II |
| Total Vacancies | 394 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Online Registration Starts | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| NDA 2 Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Job Location | Across India |
| Official Website | UPSC Official Website |
UPSC NDA (2) 2026 Important Dates
Candidates should keep track of all important events related to the NDA 2 2026 recruitment process.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 09 June 2026 |
| NDA 2 Admit Card Release | Before Exam |
| NDA 2 2026 Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Result Declaration | To Be Announced |
UPSC NDA 2 2026 Vacancy Details
The UPSC has announced a total of 394 vacancies for different wings of the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy.
| Academy / Wing | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| NDA Army Wing | 208 |
| NDA Navy Wing | 42 |
| NDA Air Force Flying Branch | 92 |
| NDA Air Force Ground Duties (Tech) | 18 |
| NDA Air Force Ground Duties (Non-Tech) | 10 |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | 24 |
| Total | 394 |
This is one of the biggest opportunities for students seeking defence careers after passing Class 12.
UPSC NDA (2) 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying online, candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility conditions prescribed in the official notification.
Educational Qualification
Army Wing of NDA
- Candidates must have passed Class 12 from a recognized board.
Navy, Air Force & Naval Academy
- Candidates must have passed 12th Class with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM).
Candidates appearing in Class 12 examinations are also eligible to apply provisionally.
Age Limit
Candidates applying for NDA 2 2026 must be:
- Born not earlier than 01 January 2008
- Born not later than 01 January 2011
Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
UPSC NDA 2 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100 |
| SC / ST | No Fee |
| Female Candidates | No Fee |
The application fee can be paid through online payment modes.
UPSC NDA (2) 2026 Selection Process
The selection procedure for NDA 2 2026 consists of multiple stages designed to test candidates physically, mentally, and academically.
1. Written Examination
Candidates first need to qualify for the written examination conducted by UPSC.
2. SSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.
The SSB process includes:
- Intelligence Tests
- Psychological Tests
- Group Tasks
- Personal Interview
3. Medical Examination
Candidates recommended by the SSB undergo a detailed medical examination.
4. Final Merit List
The final merit list is prepared based on:
- Written Exam Marks
- SSB Interview Marks
UPSC NDA 2 2026 Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation.
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 300 | 2.5 Hours |
| General Ability Test (GAT) | 600 | 2.5 Hours |
| Total | 900 | 5 Hours |
General Ability Test Includes:
- English
- General Knowledge
- Physics
- Chemistry
- History
- Geography
- Current Affairs
SSB Interview Marks
- Total SSB Marks: 900
Total Overall Marks
- Written + SSB = 1800 Marks
UPSC NDA 2 2026 Salary & Benefits
Candidates selected through NDA receive excellent salary packages and numerous benefits after training.
NDA Officer Salary
After commissioning, officers receive salary under Level-10 pay matrix.
Approximate Salary
- Starting Salary: ₹56,100 per month
- Military Service Pay
- Dearness Allowance
- Flying Allowance (for Air Force)
- Free Medical Facilities
- Pension Benefits
- Accommodation & Travel Benefits
Apart from salary, NDA officers enjoy immense respect, job security, and opportunities for career growth.
Physical Standards for NDA 2 2026
Candidates must be physically fit according to UPSC guidelines.
Basic Requirements Include:
- Good mental and physical health
- Proper vision standards
- Height and weight standards
- No permanent body tattoos (except permitted areas)
Candidates are advised to check detailed medical standards in the official notification.
How to Apply Online for UPSC NDA (2) 2026
Eligible candidates can apply online through the UPSC portal by following these steps carefully.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Visit Official Website
Go to the UPSC online application portal.
Step 2: Complete Registration
Generate the Universal Registration Number (URN).
Step 3: Fill Common Application Form
Enter:
- Personal Details
- Educational Qualification
- Communication Details
Step 4: Choose Examination
Select NDA & NA Examination-II, 2026.
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload:
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Required Certificates
Step 6: Pay Application Fee
Complete the fee payment process online.
Step 7: Final Submission
Verify all details carefully and submit the application form.
Step 8: Print Application Form
Take a printout for future reference.
Documents Required for NDA 2 2026 Application
Candidates should keep the following documents ready before applying online:
- Aadhaar Card
- Class 10 Certificate
- Class 12 Marksheet
- Passport Size Photo
- Signature
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
- Valid Mobile Number
- Email ID
NDA 2 2026 Preparation Tips
Candidates preparing for NDA 2 2026 should focus on both academics and personality development.
Best Preparation Strategy
Focus on Mathematics
Practice:
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Coordinate Geometry
- Statistics
Improve English
- Read newspapers daily
- Learn vocabulary
- Practice grammar
Study Current Affairs
Follow:
- National News
- Defence News
- International Events
- Sports & Awards
Practice Mock Tests
Regular mock tests improve:
- Speed
- Accuracy
- Time Management
Prepare for SSB Interview
Develop:
- Leadership Skills
- Communication Skills
- Confidence
Why NDA is One of the Best Career Options After 12th
Joining the National Defence Academy is considered one of the most prestigious achievements for students after Class 12.
Benefits of Joining NDA
- Opportunity to serve the nation
- High respect in society
- Excellent salary package
- Adventure-filled career
- Leadership opportunities
- Free training and education
- Lifetime benefits and pension
NDA provides world-class military training and transforms young aspirants into future officers of the Indian Armed Forces.
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification | UPSC NDA 2 2026 Notification |
| Apply Online | UPSC Online Application Portal |
| Official Website | UPSC Official Website |
| UPSC Exam Calendar | Check Now |
Conclusion
The UPSC NDA (2) 2026 recruitment is an excellent opportunity for young aspirants who wish to build a prestigious career in the Indian Armed Forces. With 394 vacancies available in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Naval Academy, eligible candidates should not miss this chance.
Interested candidates are advised to complete the online application process before 09 June 2026 and begin their preparation seriously for the written examination and SSB interview.
A career through NDA not only offers financial stability and government benefits but also provides the honour of serving the nation with pride and dignity.
FAQs – UPSC NDA (2) 2026 Recruitment
1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC NDA (2) 2026?
The last date to submit the online application form for UPSC NDA (2) 2026 is 09 June 2026.
2. How many vacancies are announced in NDA 2 2026?
A total of 394 vacancies have been announced for Army, Navy, Air Force, and Naval Academy entries.
3. What is the exam date for UPSC NDA 2 2026?
The UPSC NDA (2) 2026 written examination will be conducted on 13 September 2026.
4. Who can apply for NDA 2 2026?
Unmarried male and female candidates who have passed or are appearing in Class 12 can apply for NDA 2 2026.
5. What is the age limit for UPSC NDA (2) 2026?
Candidates must be born between 01 January 2008 and 01 January 2011.
6. Is Mathematics compulsory for NDA 2 2026?
Mathematics is compulsory for:
- Navy Wing
- Air Force Wing
- Naval Academy
For Army Wing, candidates only need to pass Class 12.
7. What is the application fee for NDA 2 2026?
- General/OBC/EWS: ₹100
- SC/ST/Female Candidates: No Fee
8. What is the selection process for UPSC NDA 2 2026?
The selection process includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
9. Can female candidates apply for NDA 2 2026?
Yes, eligible unmarried female candidates can apply for NDA 2 2026.
10. What is the salary after joining NDA?
After successful training and commissioning, officers receive a starting salary of approximately ₹56,100 per month along with allowances and other government benefits.
11. What subjects are included in the NDA written exam?
The written exam consists of:
- Mathematics
- General Ability Test (English + General Knowledge)
12. Where can candidates apply for UPSC NDA (2) 2026?
Candidates can apply online through the official UPSC portal:
UPSC Online Application Portal
13. Is there negative marking in NDA exam?
Yes, UPSC NDA written examination includes negative marking for incorrect answers.
14. Can 12th appearing students apply for NDA 2 2026?
Yes, candidates appearing in Class 12 exams are also eligible to apply provisionally.
15. What is the full form of NDA?
NDA stands for National Defence Academy.
