The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) announced the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (1) 2026 notification on December 10, 2025 . This important announcement is for young Indian students who dream of joining the armed forces. A total of 394 vacancies have been released for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The online application link for this examination is now active, allowing eligible male and female candidates to apply.
This year’s notification includes a key change concerning the Navy wing. All vacancies for the Navy, both in the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy (INAC), are now specifically designated for the Executive Branch . This means that candidates selected for the Navy will be trained for key leadership and operational duties from the start of their service.
What is the NDA Exam?
The National Defence Academy (NDA) examination is a national-level test conducted twice a year by the UPSC. It is a gateway for young, unmarried Indian citizens to become officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. After clearing the exam and interview, candidates undergo training at the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Pune. This training prepares them for a challenging and respected career in the defence forces.
Total Vacancies and Key Changes
The NDA 1 2026 notification features a total of 394 vacancies . This number is slightly lower than the previous year, 2025, when more than 400 vacancies were announced. The change in the Navy wing focuses solely on the Executive Branch, emphasizing leadership and core operational roles. This update aims to streamline the entry process for specific naval duties.
Who Can Apply? Check Eligibility
Aspiring candidates must meet clear eligibility criteria to apply for the NDA 1 2026 exam:
- Gender: Both unmarried male and unmarried female candidates are eligible to apply.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be born not earlier than July 1, 2007 , and not later than July 1, 2010 . This age bracket is strict and candidates outside these dates cannot apply.
- Marital Status: Only unmarried candidates can apply for these positions.
Understanding the Navy’s Executive Branch
The Executive Branch is the backbone of the Indian Navy. Officers in this branch lead naval missions, manage ship operations, and command personnel. Their responsibilities are vast and critical for national security. Key duties involve:
- Navigation: Guiding ships and submarines safely across seas.
- Warfare: Planning and executing combat operations.
- Leadership: Directing teams and managing resources effectively.
Specialized roles within the Executive Branch include:
- General Service (Seaman)
- Logistics (managing supplies and resources)
- Air Traffic Control (ATC) for naval aviation
- Law (legal matters within the Navy)
- Information Technology (IT) for naval systems
This focus on the Executive Branch ensures that the Navy gets dedicated officers for its most vital functions.
Detailed Vacancy Distribution for NDA 1 2026
Here is the complete breakdown of the 394 vacancies across different academies and wings:
| Academy | Wing | Number of Vacancies |
| NDA | Army | 208 (including 10 for female candidates) |
| NDA | Navy | 42 (including 05 for female candidates) (All Executive Branch) |
| NDA | Air Force (Flying) | 92 (including 02 for female candidates) |
| NDA | Air Force (Ground Duties Tech) | 18 (including 02 for female candidates) |
| NDA | Air Force (Ground Duties Non Tech) | 10 (including 02 for female candidates) |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | - | 24 (including 03 for female candidates) (All Executive Branch) |
| Total | 394 |
How Candidates Are Selected
The selection process for the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy is rigorous and includes two main stages:
- Written Examination: Candidates first appear for a written test conducted by UPSC. This exam assesses general ability, mathematics, and other subjects.
- SSB Interview: Candidates who clear the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview. This is a comprehensive five-day evaluation that checks a candidate's personality, intelligence, leadership qualities, and physical fitness. It includes various tests like psychological assessments, group tasks, and personal interviews.
Apply Online Now
The application window for NDA 1 2026 is open. Interested students should visit the official UPSC website to fill out the online application form. It is crucial to carefully read the entire notification document to understand all specific instructions, documents required, and the final application deadline. Applying correctly and on time is the first step towards a career in the Indian Armed Forces.
