The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially opened registrations for the NDA & NA I Exam 2026. Candidates aiming to join the National Defence Academy (NDA) or Naval Academy (NA) can now apply through the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in. The last date to submit the application form is December 30, 2025.
This recruitment cycle will fill a total of 394 vacancies, offering aspirants an opportunity to join the prestigious Defence Services.
UPSC NDA & NA I Exam 2026 – Vacancy Details
The detailed vacancy break-up is as follows:
- National Defence Academy: 270 vacancies
- Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme): 24 vacancies
These positions will be filled across the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings.
Eligibility Criteria for NDA & NA I 2026
- Army Wing – National Defence Academy (NDA)
- 12th Class pass under the 10+2 pattern or equivalent examination conducted by a State Education Board or University.
- Air Force Wing, Naval Wing – NDA and 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme – Indian Naval Academy
- 12th Class pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) under the 10+2 pattern or equivalent from a recognised board.
Students Appearing in Class 12
- Candidates appearing in their Class 12 exam are also eligible to apply.
Application Fee
- ₹100 for all candidates.
- Fee Exempted For:
- SC / ST candidates
- Female candidates
- Wards of JCOs / NCOs / ORs
Payment Modes:
- Visa / Master / RuPay Credit/Debit Cards
- UPI
- Internet Banking
How to Apply for UPSC NDA & NA I Exam 2026
Follow the steps below to complete your NDA & NA I 2026 application:
- Visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in
- Click on the NDA & NA I Exam 2026 Registration Link on the homepage.
- Fill in the required personal and educational details.
- Upload scanned documents as instructed.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit the application form.
- Download the confirmation page and keep a printed copy for future reference.
Quick Reference Summary
| Detail | Information |
| Exam Name | UPSC NDA & NA I Exam 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 394 |
| NDA Vacancies | 270 |
| Naval Academy Vacancies | 24 |
| Last Date to Apply | December 30, 2025 |
| Application Fee | ₹100 (Exemptions available) |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
| Eligibility | 12th Pass (PCM for NA & Air Force) |
Selection Process
The UPSC NDA & NA I 2026 exam includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
Candidates who qualify both stages will be admitted to their respective academies based on merit, medical fitness, and preference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| When does NDA & NA I 2026 registration close? |
| The last date to apply is December 30, 2025. |
| How many vacancies are available for NDA 2026? |
| There are 270 vacancies for NDA. |
| What are the Naval Academy vacancies? |
| 24 vacancies under the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme. |
| What is the application fee? |
| ₹100, with exemptions for SC/ST, female candidates, and wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs. |
| Who is eligible for the NDA Army Wing? |
| Candidates who have passed Class 12 in any stream. |
| Do Air Force and Navy wings require PCM? |
| Yes, PCM in Class 12 is mandatory. |
| Can Class 12 appearing students apply? |
| Yes, appearing students are eligible. |
| Where can I apply? |
| On the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in. |
The opening of the UPSC NDA & NA I Exam 2026 registration provides a major opportunity for defence aspirants to begin their journey toward joining the Army, Navy, or Air Force. Candidates must apply before December 30, 2025, and ensure they meet all eligibility conditions. For accurate updates, always refer to upsc.gov.in, and bookmark this page for future notifications.
MORE INFO
| Notification | CLICK HERE |
| Apply | CLICK HERE |
