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NDA 2025

Updated On 09 May, 2025 09:00

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NDA 2025 Overview

The National Defence Academy (NDA) 2025 exam is a prestigious national-level entrance test conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for admission into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA and Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC). The exam is held twice a year—NDA I and NDA II—and is open to unmarried male and female candidates who have completed or are appearing in their 12th standard. The selection process includes a written exam followed by the SSB interview. Successful candidates undergo rigorous training before commissioning as officers in the Indian Armed Forces.

📅

Exam Date

Expected on NDA I 2025 -- April 13 2025 , NDA II 2025 -- September 14, 2025.

🏛

Conducting Body

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) (expected).

🧪

Exam Format

  • Matrices and Determinants , Trigonometry , Analytical Geometry (Two and Three Dimensions) , Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Statistics and Probability
🗓

Important Dates

  • Exam Session Notification Release Date Application Period Exam Date NDA I 2025 December 11 2024 December 11 2024 – January 1 2025 April 13 2025

NDA 2025 Exam Pattern

Section Subject/Test No. of Questions Marks Duration
Paper I Mathematics 120 300 2.5 hours
Paper II General Ability Test (GAT) 150 600 2.5 hours
English 50 200 (Included in GAT)
General Knowledge (GK) 100 400 (Included in GAT)

NDA 2025 Exam Syllabus

The National Defence Academy (NDA) 2025 examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), comprises two primary papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT). Each paper assesses distinct competencies essential for a career in the armed forces. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the syllabus for each paper:

1. Paper I: Mathematics

This section evaluates a candidate's proficiency in mathematical concepts typically covered up to the 12th-grade level. The key topics include:

Algebra

  • Concepts of set theory, operations on sets, Venn diagrams.
  • Laws of De Morgan, Cartesian product, relation, equivalence relation.
  • Real numbers, complex numbers, basic properties, modulus, argument, cube roots.
  • Binary system of numbers, conversion between decimal and binary systems.
  • Arithmetic, geometric, and harmonic progressions.
  • Quadratic equations with real coefficients, solution of linear inequalities.

Matrices and Determinants

  • Types of matrices, operations on matrices.
  • Determinant of a matrix, basic properties, and applications.
  • Solution of systems of linear equations using matrix methods.

Trigonometry

  • Angles and their measures in degrees and radians.
  • Trigonometric ratios, identities, and equations.
  • Inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Applications to problems involving heights and distances.

Analytical Geometry (Two and Three Dimensions)

Two Dimensions
  • Cartesian coordinate system, distance formula, section formula.
  • Equation of a line, angle between two lines, distance from a point to a line.
  • Equations of circles, parabolas, ellipses, and hyperbolas.
Three Dimensions
  • Direction cosines and ratios, equations of lines and planes.
  • Angle between two lines, two planes, and a line and a plane.

Differential Calculus

  • Concept of a function, domain, range, and graph.
  • Composite and inverse functions.
  • Limit and continuity of functions.
  • Derivatives, differentiation techniques, and applications.

Integral Calculus and Differential Equations

  • Integration as the inverse process of differentiation.
  • Standard integrals, definite integrals, and their properties.
  • Applications of integration to areas under curves.
  • Formation and solution of first-order differential equations.

Vector Algebra

  • Vectors in two and three dimensions, magnitude, and direction.
  • Vector operations: addition, scalar multiplication, dot and cross products.
  • Applications to geometry and physics problems.

Statistics and Probability

  • Collection and tabulation of data, graphical representation.
  • Measures of central tendency and dispersion.
  • Probability concepts, Bayes' theorem, random variables, and distributions.

Matrices and Determinants

  • Types of matrices, operations on matrices.
  • Determinant of a matrix, basic properties, and applications.
  • Solution of systems of linear equations using matrix methods.

Paper II: General Ability Test (GAT)

This paper assesses a candidate's general awareness and proficiency in English. It is divided into two parts

Part A: English (200 Marks)

Focuses on: Grammar and usage Vocabulary. Comprehension skills. Cohesion in extended texts

Part A: English (200 Marks)

Focuses on: Grammar and usage Vocabulary. Comprehension skills. Cohesion in extended texts

Physics

  • Basic concepts and principles.
  • Mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, and electricity.

Chemistry

  • Elements, compounds, and mixtures
  • Acids, bases, salts, and their properties.
  • Chemical reactions and equations.

General Science

  • Human biology: systems and functions.
  • Ecosystems and environmental science.

History, Freedom Movement

  • Indian history: ancient to modern times.
  • National freedom movement and its leaders

Geography

  • Physical, social, and economic geography of India and the world.
  • Climate, vegetation, and population distribution.

Current Events

  • Significant national and international events.
  • Prominent personalities and organizations.

NDA 2025 Syllabus & Key Information

Exam Syllabus

The NDA 2025 exam consists of main sections:

  • Algebra
  • Matrices and Determinants
  • Trigonometry
  • Analytical Geometry (Two and Three Dimensions)
  • Integral Calculus and Differential Equations

Key Dates

  • NDA I 2025 December 11
  • 2024 December 11
  • 2024 – January 1
  • 2025 April 13
  • 2025
  • NDA II 2025 May 28
  • 2025 May 28
  • 2025 – June 17
  • 2025 September 14
  • 2025

Admit Card Download

  1. Visit the Official UPSC Website: Open your web browser and go to  Navigate to the Admit Card Section: On the homepage
  2. click on the "Admit Card" tab.​
  3. Access the NDA & NA (I) 2025 Admit Card Link: In the Admit Card section
  4. find and click on the link titled "e-Admit Card: National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I)
  5. 2025
  6. Read and Agree to the Instructions: Carefully read the instructions provided on the page.​ After reviewing
  7. click on the "Yes" button to proceed.​ Choose Login Method: You will be prompted to download the admit card by either:​ Registration ID or Roll Number.
  8. Enter Your Credentials: Based on your chosen method:​ By Registration ID: Enter your Registration ID. Input your Date of Birth (in DD/MM/YYYY format). Type the randomly generated verification code displayed on the screen. By Roll Number: Enter your Roll Number. Input your Date of Birth. Type the verification code.

NDA 2025 Answer Key

Step1:Release of Answer Keys

  • Unofficial Answer Keys: Immediately after the NDA exam on April 13
  • 2025
  • various coaching institutes are expected to release their versions of the answer keys. These can serve as preliminary references for candidates to estimate their performance.​

Step2:Official Answer Keys

  • UPSC typically releases the official answer keys for the NDA examination a few days post-exam. Candidates can access these by:​ Visiting the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in. Navigating to the "Examinations" section. Selecting "Answer Keys" from the dropdown menu. Locating and downloading the answer key for "National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I)
  • 2025".

Step3:Challenging the Answer Key

  • Objection Process: UPSC does not typically provide a window for candidates to challenge the official answer keys. However
  • if candidates identify discrepancies in the question papers
  • they can raise objections through the UPSC's official portal. It's essential to regularly check upsc.gov.in for any updates or notifications regarding this process.​

Step4:Final Answer Key

  • After addressing any raised concerns and completing the evaluation process
  • UPSC releases the final answer key. This definitive version is used for result computation and is made available on the official UPSC website.​

Step5:Result Calculation

  • Marking Scheme: Mathematics Paper: Each correct answer: +2.5 marks. Each incorrect answer: -0.83 marks (negative marking). General Ability Test (GAT): Each correct answer: +4 marks. Each incorrect answer: -1.33 marks (negative marking). Score Calculation: Mathematics: Total Score = (Number of correct answers × 2.5) - (Number of incorrect answers × 0.83). GAT: Total Score = (Number of correct answers × 4) - (Number of incorrect answers × 1.33). Cut-off Marks: UPSC determines the cut-off marks based on various factors
  • including exam difficulty and candidate performance. Historically
  • the cut-off for the written exam has ranged between 300 to 360 out of 900 marks. Candidates must also secure at least 25% marks in each subject to qualify for the subsequent Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.​ Final Selection: The final merit list is prepared by combining scores from the written examination (900 marks) and the SSB interview (900 marks)
  • totaling 1800 marks. Candidates are ranked based on their aggregate scores
  • and selections are made accordingly.

Understanding the NDA 2025 Exam

Mathematics Paper

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult Key Areas: Algebra and Trigonometry saw a higher number of questions. Calculus and Probability were more conceptual and time-consuming. Questions required strong speed + accuracy. Good Attempts: 50–60 questions (out of 120)

General Ability Test (GAT)

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate English Section: Easy to moderate level. Grammar and vocabulary-based questions dominated. General Knowledge Section: Covered History

Geography

Current Affairs

General Science. Physics and Chemistry were moderate

while Biology and History were easier. Good Attempts: 90–100 questions (out of 150)

NDA 2025 Preparation Tips

1️⃣ Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Focus on NCERT books for basic concepts in Mathematics and Science.
2️⃣ Time Management & Consistency: Make a realistic timetable and stick to it. , Practice daily mock tests and analyze mistakes.
3️⃣ Strengthen Basics: Revise Class 10th–12th Maths, Science, and Social Science. Don't skip topics like Trigonometry, Geometry, Grammar, and Current Affairs.
4️⃣ Mock Tests & PYQs: Solve previous years’ papers to understand exam patterns. Give full-length mock tests under timed conditions.
5️⃣ Focus on Current Affairs: Read newspapers like The Hindu, or follow monthly current affairs magazines.
6️⃣ SSB Preparation: Alongside written prep, begin personality development, communication skills, and physical fitness for the SSB interview.

Best Books for CAT Preparation

1️⃣ Mathematics

  • NCERT Books (Class 11 & 12) – Foundation builder Pathfinder for NDA & NA by Arihant Mathematics for NDA and NA by R.S. Aggarwal

2️⃣ English

  • Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi (Arihant) Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis NDA English Section – Previous Year Papers

3️⃣ General Knowledge / GAT

  • General Knowledge by Lucent Manorama Year Book NCERT Science & Social Science (6–10)

4️⃣ Previous Year Papers

  • NDA & NA Solved Papers – Arihant / Disha Experts

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NDA 2025

Updated On 09 May, 2025 09:00

Ask Us

NDA 2025 Overview

The National Defence Academy (NDA) 2025 exam is a prestigious national-level entrance test conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for admission into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA and Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC). The exam is held twice a year—NDA I and NDA II—and is open to unmarried male and female candidates who have completed or are appearing in their 12th standard. The selection process includes a written exam followed by the SSB interview. Successful candidates undergo rigorous training before commissioning as officers in the Indian Armed Forces.

📅

Exam Date

Expected on NDA I 2025 -- April 13 2025 , NDA II 2025 -- September 14, 2025.

🏛

Conducting Body

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) (expected).

🧪

Exam Format

  • Matrices and Determinants , Trigonometry , Analytical Geometry (Two and Three Dimensions) , Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Statistics and Probability
🗓

Important Dates

  • Exam Session Notification Release Date Application Period Exam Date NDA I 2025 December 11 2024 December 11 2024 – January 1 2025 April 13 2025

NDA 2025 Exam Pattern

Section Subject/Test No. of Questions Marks Duration
Paper I Mathematics 120 300 2.5 hours
Paper II General Ability Test (GAT) 150 600 2.5 hours
English 50 200 (Included in GAT)
General Knowledge (GK) 100 400 (Included in GAT)

NDA 2025 Exam Syllabus

The National Defence Academy (NDA) 2025 examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), comprises two primary papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT). Each paper assesses distinct competencies essential for a career in the armed forces. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the syllabus for each paper:

1. Paper I: Mathematics

This section evaluates a candidate's proficiency in mathematical concepts typically covered up to the 12th-grade level. The key topics include:

Algebra

  • Concepts of set theory, operations on sets, Venn diagrams.
  • Laws of De Morgan, Cartesian product, relation, equivalence relation.
  • Real numbers, complex numbers, basic properties, modulus, argument, cube roots.
  • Binary system of numbers, conversion between decimal and binary systems.
  • Arithmetic, geometric, and harmonic progressions.
  • Quadratic equations with real coefficients, solution of linear inequalities.

Matrices and Determinants

  • Types of matrices, operations on matrices.
  • Determinant of a matrix, basic properties, and applications.
  • Solution of systems of linear equations using matrix methods.

Trigonometry

  • Angles and their measures in degrees and radians.
  • Trigonometric ratios, identities, and equations.
  • Inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Applications to problems involving heights and distances.

Analytical Geometry (Two and Three Dimensions)

Two Dimensions
  • Cartesian coordinate system, distance formula, section formula.
  • Equation of a line, angle between two lines, distance from a point to a line.
  • Equations of circles, parabolas, ellipses, and hyperbolas.
Three Dimensions
  • Direction cosines and ratios, equations of lines and planes.
  • Angle between two lines, two planes, and a line and a plane.

Differential Calculus

  • Concept of a function, domain, range, and graph.
  • Composite and inverse functions.
  • Limit and continuity of functions.
  • Derivatives, differentiation techniques, and applications.

Integral Calculus and Differential Equations

  • Integration as the inverse process of differentiation.
  • Standard integrals, definite integrals, and their properties.
  • Applications of integration to areas under curves.
  • Formation and solution of first-order differential equations.

Vector Algebra

  • Vectors in two and three dimensions, magnitude, and direction.
  • Vector operations: addition, scalar multiplication, dot and cross products.
  • Applications to geometry and physics problems.

Statistics and Probability

  • Collection and tabulation of data, graphical representation.
  • Measures of central tendency and dispersion.
  • Probability concepts, Bayes' theorem, random variables, and distributions.

Matrices and Determinants

  • Types of matrices, operations on matrices.
  • Determinant of a matrix, basic properties, and applications.
  • Solution of systems of linear equations using matrix methods.

Paper II: General Ability Test (GAT)

This paper assesses a candidate's general awareness and proficiency in English. It is divided into two parts

Part A: English (200 Marks)

Focuses on: Grammar and usage Vocabulary. Comprehension skills. Cohesion in extended texts

Part A: English (200 Marks)

Focuses on: Grammar and usage Vocabulary. Comprehension skills. Cohesion in extended texts

Physics

  • Basic concepts and principles.
  • Mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, and electricity.

Chemistry

  • Elements, compounds, and mixtures
  • Acids, bases, salts, and their properties.
  • Chemical reactions and equations.

General Science

  • Human biology: systems and functions.
  • Ecosystems and environmental science.

History, Freedom Movement

  • Indian history: ancient to modern times.
  • National freedom movement and its leaders

Geography

  • Physical, social, and economic geography of India and the world.
  • Climate, vegetation, and population distribution.

Current Events

  • Significant national and international events.
  • Prominent personalities and organizations.

Exam Pattern details are not available.

Understanding the NDA 2025 Exam

Mathematics Paper

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult Key Areas: Algebra and Trigonometry saw a higher number of questions. Calculus and Probability were more conceptual and time-consuming. Questions required strong speed + accuracy. Good Attempts: 50–60 questions (out of 120)

General Ability Test (GAT)

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate English Section: Easy to moderate level. Grammar and vocabulary-based questions dominated. General Knowledge Section: Covered History

Geography

Current Affairs

General Science. Physics and Chemistry were moderate

while Biology and History were easier. Good Attempts: 90–100 questions (out of 150)

NDA 2025 Preparation Tips

1️⃣ Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Focus on NCERT books for basic concepts in Mathematics and Science.
2️⃣ Time Management & Consistency: Make a realistic timetable and stick to it. , Practice daily mock tests and analyze mistakes.
3️⃣ Strengthen Basics: Revise Class 10th–12th Maths, Science, and Social Science. Don't skip topics like Trigonometry, Geometry, Grammar, and Current Affairs.
4️⃣ Mock Tests & PYQs: Solve previous years’ papers to understand exam patterns. Give full-length mock tests under timed conditions.
5️⃣ Focus on Current Affairs: Read newspapers like The Hindu, or follow monthly current affairs magazines.
6️⃣ SSB Preparation: Alongside written prep, begin personality development, communication skills, and physical fitness for the SSB interview.

Best Books for CAT Preparation

1️⃣ Mathematics

  • NCERT Books (Class 11 & 12) – Foundation builder Pathfinder for NDA & NA by Arihant Mathematics for NDA and NA by R.S. Aggarwal

2️⃣ English

  • Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi (Arihant) Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis NDA English Section – Previous Year Papers

3️⃣ General Knowledge / GAT

  • General Knowledge by Lucent Manorama Year Book NCERT Science & Social Science (6–10)

4️⃣ Previous Year Papers

  • NDA & NA Solved Papers – Arihant / Disha Experts