UPSC NDA 1 2026 Exam: Key Guidelines and Complete Schedule
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is set to conduct the National Defence Academy (NDA) 1 2026 examination on April 12, 2026. This highly anticipated national-level test will be held in offline mode across two shifts, featuring papers in Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The application window for this examination remained open from December 10 to December 30, 2025.
Exam Schedule and Timing Details
Candidates appearing for the NDA 1 2026 exam must carefully note the examination schedule. The test will be conducted in two separate shifts on the same day, with each paper lasting two and a half hours.
- Shift 1 – Mathematics: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Shift 2 – General Ability Test (GAT): 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Reporting Time at Examination Centres
All candidates are strongly advised to arrive at their designated examination centres at least 60 minutes before the scheduled commencement of each shift. The exact reporting time will be clearly mentioned on the admit card, which can be downloaded from the official UPSC website.
- Mathematics Paper: Report by 9:50 AM
- GAT Paper: Report by 1:50 PM
Complete Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
Understanding the examination pattern is essential for effective preparation. The NDA 1 2026 exam comprises two written papers with a combined total of 900 marks. Here is the detailed breakdown:
- Paper 1 – Mathematics: 120 questions worth 300 marks, to be completed in 2.5 hours
- Paper 2 – General Ability Test (GAT): 150 questions worth 600 marks, to be completed in 2.5 hours
- Total: 270 questions worth 900 marks across 5 hours
Marking Scheme and Negative Marking
The evaluation process follows a structured marking system that candidates must understand thoroughly. Each correct answer earns 2.5 marks, while incorrect responses attract negative marking as specified below:
- Mathematics: 0.83 marks deducted for every wrong answer
- GAT: 1.33 marks deducted for every wrong answer
Selection Process Overview
The NDA recruitment process is conducted in two distinct stages. Candidates must successfully clear both stages to secure admission to the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy.
Stage 1: Written Examination
The first stage consists of the written test comprising two papers – Mathematics with 120 questions and General Ability Test with 150 questions. This stage evaluates candidates on their academic knowledge and aptitude.
Stage 2: SSB Interview
Candidates who qualify in the written examination are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. This stage assesses candidates on various parameters including leadership qualities, communication skills, and overall personality traits.
Important Preparation Tips
With the examination scheduled for tomorrow, candidates should focus on reviewing key concepts and ensuring they have all necessary documents ready. It is crucial to carry the admit card along with a valid photo identification to the examination centre. Additionally, candidates should familiarise themselves with the route to their examination centre beforehand to avoid any last-minute delays.
The NDA 1 2026 examination represents a significant opportunity for aspirants seeking a career in the defence forces. Success in this competitive examination requires not only thorough preparation but also careful attention to examination guidelines and procedures. Candidates are advised to stay calm, manage their time effectively during the exam, and approach each paper with confidence.
