NDA exam 2026 Eligibilty, Age Limit, Educational Qualification by Top NDA coaching in Lucknow
Dreaming of donning the olive green uniform and serving the nation with pride? The NDA exam 2026 might just be your golden ticket. The National Defence Academy (NDA) is the premier institution that grooms cadets for the Indian Armed Forces – Army, Navy, and Air Force. And if you’re from Lucknow or nearby, then guidance from a top NDA coaching in Lucknow can make all the difference in cracking this prestigious exam.
In this article, we’ll walk you through NDA exam 2026 eligibility, age limits, and educational qualifications in a way that’s super easy to understand — with tips from the best coaching experts in the field.
What is the NDA Exam 2026?
The NDA exam 2026 is a national-level entrance exam conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It’s the gateway for 12th-pass students to enter the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as officers.
NDA 1 2026: Conducted around April
NDA 2 2026: Conducted around September
This exam is followed by a rigorous SSB interview and medical tests before final selection.
NDA Exam 2026 Eligibility Overview
Before applying, you’ve got to be clear on the eligibility norms. A small mistake can get your form rejected. Here are the key things you must qualify in:
Nationality
Age and Marital Status
Gender
Educational Qualification
Physical Standards
Let’s break them down.
Nationality Requirements
To apply for NDA exam 2026, you must be:
A citizen of India, or
A subject of Nepal, or
A person of Indian origin who migrated from Burma, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, or East African countries intending to settle permanently in India
Important Note: Candidates other than Indian citizens need a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India.
Gender and Marital Status
Only male candidates are eligible for NDA 2026.
You must be unmarried. Married candidates are not allowed.
You must remain unmarried even after selection, until training is complete.
NDA Exam 2026 Age Limit
Here’s one of the most asked questions: “What’s the age limit for NDA 2026?”
Let’s break it down simply:
NDA 1 2026 Age Limit
You must be born between July 2, 2007 and July 1, 2010 (both dates inclusive).
NDA 2 2026 Age Limit
You should be born between January 2, 2008 and January 1, 2011 (both inclusive).
Tip: Even a single day outside this range will make you ineligible. So double-check your birth certificate before applying.
NDA Exam 2026 Educational Qualification
Let’s look at what qualifications you’ll need based on the wing you’re applying to.
Army Wing
Must have passed or appearing in 12th standard (any stream) from a recognized board.
Navy and Air Force Wings
Must have passed or appearing in 12th with Physics and Mathematics.
Note: Students appearing for Class 12 in 2026 are also eligible, but they must submit proof of passing before joining the academy.
Candidates Appearing in 12th Exam
Yes, you can apply for NDA 2026 even if you’re appearing in your Class 12 exams — just make sure you clear the exams before the final selection process.
NDA Physical and Medical Standards
You’ve got to be not just mentally sharp but also physically fit.
Minimum Height:
Army: 157 cm
Navy: 157 cm
Air Force: 162.5 cm
Vision Standard:
Army: 6/6 in better eye and 6/9 in worse eye
No color blindness or night blindness
Common Medical Rejections:
Knock knees
Flat feet
Overweight or underweight
Any major surgery or bone issue
NDA Exam 2026 Selection Process
Written Exam by UPSC (Maths + General Ability)
SSB Interview (5-day process)
Medical Examination
Final Merit List
NDA Exam 2026 Important Dates
While UPSC will release exact dates in late 2025, here’s the expected schedule:
| Event | NDA 1 2026 | NDA 2 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Notification Date | December 2025 | May 2026 |
| Application Starts | December 2025 | May 2026 |
| Exam Date | April 2026 | September 2026 |
Stay tuned to UPSC’s official website for updates.
Top NDA Coaching in Lucknow: Your Gateway to Success
If you’re serious about clearing the NDA exam 2026, a reputed NDA coaching institute can become your biggest asset.
Lucknow is home to some of India’s top NDA coaching centers. These institutes don’t just teach — they mentor, inspire, and transform you into officer material.
Personalized Mentorship
Get one-on-one doubt clearing sessions, academic guidance, and motivational talks from retired defence officers.
Regular Mock Tests and Physical Training
With weekly mock tests and physical drills, coaching institutes prepare you for the real challenge — both mentally and physically.
SSB Interview Preparation
The SSB is a real game-changer. Coaching centers in Lucknow offer expert-led training in psychology, group tasks, and personal interviews.
Why Start Early for NDA 2026?
Starting early means more time to master the syllabus, build your stamina, and develop officer-like qualities.
The top NDA coaching in Lucknow often starts foundation batches from Class 11 itself — giving you a strategic edge over others.
Final Thoughts
Cracking the NDA exam 2026 isn’t just about studying hard — it’s about preparing smart. Understand the eligibility criteria, age limits, and qualifications thoroughly before applying. With the right mindset, early planning, and expert coaching — your dream of joining the National Defence Academy can definitely come true.
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