The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will release the official announcement and application form for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I), 2026, on December 10, 2025 . Students who wish to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force can apply for this exam. The application window will close on December 30, 2025 . The examination is scheduled for April 12, 2026 . All applications must be submitted online through the official UPSC website, upsconline.nic.in .
Key Dates for NDA 1 Exam 2026
It is important for students to remember these dates. Missing a deadline means you cannot apply or sit for the exam.
| Event | Date |
| NDA 1 Notification Release | December 10, 2025 |
| Start of NDA 1 Online Application | December 10, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply for NDA 1 | December 30, 2025 |
| NDA 1 Exam Date | April 12, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release (Tentative) | Around 10 days before exam (approx. April 2, 2026 ) |
About the NDA Exam
The National Defence Academy (NDA) examination is a national-level test held twice a year. It is conducted by UPSC. This exam allows young men and women to join the officer ranks of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force after completing their training. Success in the NDA exam leads to admission to the NDA, where cadets receive extensive military and academic training.
The notification, which will be released on December 10, 2025, will contain all necessary information. This includes details on who can apply, their age limits, required educational qualifications, and other important rules. Students must read this notification carefully to ensure they meet all conditions before applying.
How to Apply for NDA 1 Exam 2026
The application process for the NDA 1 exam is entirely online. Follow these simple steps to complete your application:
- Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the UPSC Online Application Portal. The website address is upsconline.nic.in . - Step 2: Create a New Account (First-time applicants)
If you are applying for the first time, look for the "Account Creation" section on the homepage. You will need to register by providing your email ID, mobile number, and other basic personal details. After entering your information, verify your email and mobile number. Then, create a strong password and submit these details to create your account. This will also generate a Universal Registration Number (URN). - Step 3: Log In to Your Account
Once your account is created, you can log in using one of these options:- Your registered email ID and the password you created.
- Your registered mobile number and a One-Time Password (OTP) sent to it.
- Your Universal Registration Number (URN) and password.
- Step 4: Fill the Application Form
After logging in, you will find the link for the NDA 1 Application Form 2026. Click on it. Carefully fill in all your personal, educational, and contact details as required in the form. Make sure all information is correct. - Step 5: Pay the Exam Fee
Pay the application fee using an online payment method. You can use a Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, or Net Banking. The fee amount will be mentioned in the official notification. - Step 6: Choose Your Exam Centre
Select your preferred centre where you wish to take the NDA 1 exam. Choose carefully as changes might not be possible later. - Step 7: Review and Submit
Before final submission, review all the details you have entered in the application form. Check for any errors or mistakes. Once you are sure everything is correct, click on the "Submit" button to complete your application. It is wise to download and keep a printout of your submitted application for your records.
Important Reminders
Only candidates who successfully complete their online application by December 30, 2025 , will be allowed to appear for the NDA 1 exam. The admit card, which is your entry ticket to the exam hall, will likely be available online about 10 days before the exam date. Keep an eye on the UPSC website for updates on admit card release.
Students are strongly advised to check the full NDA 1 Notification 2026 on the official UPSC website for complete details on eligibility, exam pattern, and syllabus before applying.
