The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC NDA) has released the official notification for the National Defence Academy (NDA) & Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I) 2026, inviting online applications for 394 vacancies. The exam will be held on 12th April 2026 for admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA (157th Course) and the 119th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC), starting 1st January 2027.
Eligible male and female candidates can apply online at the UPSC official website, upsconline.nic.in, from 10th December 2025 to 30th December 2025. Interested candidates are encouraged to complete their applications within the deadline to secure a chance to join India’s premier defence training institutions.
Important Dates for UPSC NDA 1 Exam 2026
- Application Start Date: 10th December 2025
- Application End Date: 30th December 2025
- Exam Date: 12th April 2026
Read More: UPSC CDS 1 2026 Exam Notification – Apply Online Now
Application Fee for UPSC NDA 1 Exam 2026
- SC/ST & Female Candidates: ₹0
- All Other Candidates: ₹100
Payment can be made online via Visa, MasterCard, RuPay credit/debit cards, UPI, or internet banking.
Age Limit for UPSC NDA 1 Exam 2026
- Eligibility: Only unmarried male and female candidates
- Date of Birth: Born between 1st July 2007 and 1st July 2010
Total Post
- 394
UPSC NDA 1 Exam 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- Army Wing (NDA): Candidates must have passed 12th class under the 10+2 pattern or an equivalent exam from a recognized State Board or University.
- Air Force & Naval Wings (NDA) and 10+2 Cadet Entry (INA): Candidates must have passed 12th class with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics under the 10+2 pattern or equivalent.
- Note: Students appearing for their 12th class exams in 2025-26 are also eligible to apply.
UPSC NDA 1 Vacancy 2026 Details
| Exam Name | Wing | No. of Posts |
|---|---|---|
| National Defence Academy | Army | 208 (including 10 for female candidates) |
| Navy | 42 (including 05 for female candidates) | |
| Air Force | Flying – 92 (including 02 for female candidates)Ground Duties (Tech) – 18 (including 02 for female candidates)Ground Duties (Non Tech) – 10 (including 02 for female candidates) | |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | 24 (including 03 for female candidates) | |
| Total Post | 394 | |
NDA 1 Recruitment 2026 Apply Online Links
| Apply Online | Click Here To Apply |
| Applicant Login | Click Here To Login |
| Download Notification | Click Here To Download Notification |
| Official Website | Click Here To Open Official Website |
| Join Telegram Channel | Click Here To Join Telegram |
| Join WhatsApp Channel | Click Here To Join WhatsApp |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UPSC NDA 1 Exam 2026?
The NDA 1 Exam 2026 is conducted by UPSC for admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings.
How many vacancies are available?
There are 394 vacancies for NDA 1 and Indian Naval Academy courses.
What is the application start and end date?
Applications are open from 10th December 2025 to 30th December 2025.
When will the exam be conducted?
The exam is scheduled for 12th April 2026.
What is the age limit to apply?
Only unmarried candidates born between 1st July 2007 and 1st July 2010 are eligible.
Can students appearing in 12th apply?
Yes, 12th appearing candidates are eligible to apply.
Where can I apply online?
Applications are accepted on the official UPSC website – upsconline.nic.in.
Is the NDA exam only for male candidates?
No, both unmarried male and female candidates can apply.
Conclusion
The UPSC NDA 1 Exam 2026 offers a prestigious opportunity for eligible candidates to join the Army, Navy, or Air Force. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, complete your application online within the given dates, and prepare thoroughly for the exam. Stay updated with official notifications on the UPSC website to secure your chance to serve in India’s premier defence institutions.
