How to Prepare for NDA Exam in Just 15 Days

How to Prepare for NDA Exam in Just 15 Days The NDA ( National Defence…

How to Prepare for NDA Exam in Just 15 Days

How to Prepare for NDA Exam in Just 15 Days

 

The NDA ( National Defence Academy ) exam is conducted by the UPSC ( Union Public Service Commission ) for the recruitment of various posts in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The only key to achieving success in the NDA exam is comprehensive preparation. If you are left with only 15 days for the preparation, mentioned below are the keys and points to prepare for the NDA exam in 15 days.

 

15 Days Preparation Tips for NDA 2024

 

The preparation for the NDA exam requires hard work and dedication, mentioned below are the steps to be taken to make your 15-day preparation journey more impactful l. Interested students must take a look and prepare accordingly to achieve success.

 

Assembling Information and Designing

 

Given below is the plan for the first three days, which are the most important, and create a goal to prepare for the NDA exam 2024.

 

NDA Exam Structure – Students will have to study and understand the NDA exam structure with the help of NDA previous question papers which helps to understand the marking scheme.

 

NDA Syllabus – Analyze the NDA syllabus mentioned on the official website of UPSC. The site has provided the students with information regarding the syllabus and the subjects.

 

Time Table – Students must be attentive and create the timetable according to the NDA exam pattern and syllabus, the timetable should be created with accurate time management and should be strictly followed by the students.

 

NDA EXAM Study Material – Collect your NDA study material wisely, and choose the best institutes or websites that provide comprehensive study materials to prepare for the NDA accordingly.

 

Skill Enhancement – Students will have to work on their skills as per the NDA question paper the structure for the NDA exam is mentioned on the official website of UPSC.

 

Mathematics Section – Students will have to prepare for algebra, trigonometry, matrices, analytical geometry, and differential calculus. These calculations should be on the tips that help you with time management in the exam hall. Mathematics is the first section in the paper before GAT.

 

GAT ( General Ability Test ) Section

 

The next section is the GAT test which is a compilation of various subjects including science, geography, general knowledge, English, and history. The best way to prepare for the NDA GAT is to specialize in the field that is your strength and then focus on other subjects.

 

History – The history of India including various special dates and events must be focused on and maps should be prepared by the students to locate and city, state, or water body immediately related to our nation.

 

English – Grammar is to be focused on cloze, antonyms, sentence completion, idioms and phrases, sentence ordering, synonyms, and more.

 

Geography – Indian climates, landforms, important locations, rivers, and maps including diagrams should be on your tips. The maps and diagrams are asked in the question paper and this section lets you score.

 

Current Affairs – Students will have to stay updated with the happenings in India be it sports, entertainment, politics, or any big event.

 

Rehearsing Strategies for NDA Exam Preparation 2024

 

The last 11 to 14 days are the most important for the preparation of the NDA exam and aspirants should work on their strategies for writing the exam and practicing time management at the exam hall.

 

Practice Papers – Students should download the practice papers from the official website or third parties and practice them within the time, this helps to understand the structure and get satisfaction for your preparation for the NDA exam.

 

Improve Your Mistakes – While solving practicing papers you must analyze your mistakes and ensure to work and improve them for the exam.

 

NDA Exam Day

 

The exam day makes many students nervous after 15 days of preparation for the NDA exam, but they should trust their hard work and preparation.

 

Calm Your Mind – Students must stay calm while appearing for the exam, a calm mind results in better outcomes. Believe in your hard work and just go ahead.

 

Answer Strategies – First answer the questions that you are sure of, and save time for other questions that are tricky and time-consuming.

 

At last aspirants should remember that 15 days is not a time for the preparation of the NDA exam, hard work, and dedication always have better outcomes than your expectations.

What is TES Entry in the Indian Army? Eligibility & Notification 2024

What is TES Entry in the Indian Army? Eligibility & Notification 2024 TES is a…

What is TES Entry in the Indian Army

What is TES Entry in the Indian Army? Eligibility & Notification 2024

 

TES is a technical entry scheme designed by the Indian Army to recruit young technical professionals as technical officers. This scheme was originated by the Indian Army to fascinate the interested youth and to develop their professional technical skills for the commissioned officers.

 

TES is a direct route to entry into the Indian Military Academy, which has 1 year of primary training, 3 years of technical training, and 1 year of commissioned officer training. These students are free to appear directly for the SSB interview without appearing for the written exam of NDA, CDS, or AFCAT. TES is conducted twice a year by the authorities and skips the written test.

 

TES Army Eligibility Criteria 2024 For the 10+2 TES ( Technical Entry Scheme )

 

The Unmarried Male candidates who have cleared their 10+2 from a recognized board in Physics, Chemistry, or Maths with 60% or above grades are mandatory to be eligible for the TES 10+2 scheme. They will also have to clear the JEE Mains exam for the same. The candidates who want to join the team as technical officers are the main target, with the age group of 16.5 to 19.5 years old. If candidates are eligible for the TES scheme they can directly appear for the SSB interview and skip any written exam.

 

Who Can Apply For the Army TES Entry 2024?

 

Mentioned below are the rules of eligibility before applying for the scheme

 

  • 10+2 mark sheet with physics, chemistry, and maths.
  • The marksheet should hold 60% or above grades.
  • The candidate should be an unmarried male.
  • Cleared the JEE main exam
  • The age criteria are 16.5 to 29.5 years old

 

How is the TES Entry Different from the NDA Exam?

 

TES and NDA are two different ways to join the Indian Military Academy. To join through NDA students will have to appear and clear the written exam conducted by the UPSC, and for TES Exam the eligible student can skip the written exam and directly appear for the SSB interview.

 

Particulars 

TES 

NDA 

Conducted by 

Indian Army 

UPSC 

Written exam 

Not necessary 

Mandatory 

12th percentage 

60% or above 

12th passed 

Stream 

PCM 

Any stream 

Gender eligibility 

Only unmarried male 

Both male and female 

SSB Interview 

Direct interview 

After clearing the written exam 

Posts 

Technical posts in the Indian Army 

Any post in the Indian Arme, Navy, or Air Force

 

Cadets Training Wing

 

Particulars 

CME, Pune

MCTE, Mhow 

MCEME, Secundrabad 

Parent arm 

Corps of engineer

Corps of signal 

Corps of Electrical 

Stream 

Mechanical and civil engineering

IT & Telecom Engineering 

Electronics and mechanical engineering 

Training location 

Pune 

Mhow 

Secundrabad 

Phase 1 duration 

3 year 

3 year 

3 year 

After clearing the entrance exam students can choose the center of training as per their preference for the cadets training wing. Mentioned below are the cadet’s training wing centers and associated engineering streams.

 

The training of the TES scheme for phase one is for 4 years and the phase one training is for 3 years. The rest one year of training is provided at the Indian Military Academy at Dehradun. After completing the training the students are awarded an engineering degree.

 

How to Prepare for the 10+2 TES Army Exam 2024

 

Candidates who have cleared their 10+2 from a recognized state board in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics with 60% or above grades and also achieved a good rank in JEE Mains are eligible for the TES appearance. After the success, the SSB interview takes place through which the candidates are given preference so it is mandatory to prepare well for the interview.

NDA Selection Process 2024 : Dates, Application form, Merit List, Exam Stages

NDA Selection Process 2024 : Dates, Application form, Merit List, Exam Stages The NDA exam…

NDA Selection Process 2024 : Dates, Application form, Merit List, Exam Stages

NDA Selection Process 2024 : Dates, Application form, Merit List, Exam Stages

 

The NDA exam is conducted by the UPSC ( Union Public Service Commission ), and the NDA exam is conducted for the recruitment of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The NDA exam is conducted 2 times a year and students will have to appear for the SSB interview after clearing the exam.

 

The UPSC released the official selection and eligibility process on the official website, which interested students can check out. The students should ensure to check their eligibility before applying for the exam.

 

NDA Selection Process 2024 Overview

 

The selection and eligibility criteria are available on the official UPSC website. The selection process for males and females is different, students will have to prepare accordingly for the exam, mentioned below are the details for the selection and the stages of NDA.

 

NDA Exam Stages 2024

 

  • NDA Application : UPSC Official website 
  • NDA Exam Date  : 1 September 2024 ( Mathematics and general ability test ) 
  • SSB Interview      : 5-day process Personality, physical ability, professionality, and general knowledge test
  • Medical Exam     : Medical checkups include cardiovascular, respiratory, vision, hearing, and more checkups. 

 

NDA Selection Process for Written Examination 2024

 

Students who want to serve their nation by joining any post in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force will have to clear the NDA written exam first. Students should note that they will have to complete their 10th and 12th standards from a recognized state board to appear for the written exam.

 

  1. The written exam comprises mathematics and general ability tests.
  2. The written exam is conducted for 900 marks.
  3. Only objective-type questions are asked.
  4. Hindi and English are the accepted languages.

 

  • Total Marks : 300 marks 
  • Number of Questions : 120 
  • Negative and Positive Marking : 2.5 for correct 0.83 for incorrect 
  • Duration : 2.5 hours

 

NDA SSB 2024 Selection Process

 

Once the candidate clears the written examination for NDA they will have to appear for the SSB interview which is a 5-day process and considered to be the most difficult interview conducted in India. Students will be tested for their personality, general knowledge, and physical ability. The SSB interview is of a total 900 marks in which a 2.5 grade is awarded for every correct answer.

 

SSB NDA Interview Description 2024

 

  • Stage 1 : Officer Intelligence rating and PP&DT 
  • Stage 2 : Psychology, personality, professionalism, and group tasking

 

NDA Selection Required Documents

 

Once the candidates clear the SSB interview they will have to get their documents verified by the commission. Students should submit their original documents as per the requirements. Mentioned below is a list of documents required for the verification.

 

Matriculation Certificate with an Equivalent Date of Birth.

 

  • ID proof
  • Transfer and migration certificates
  • Birth certificate
  • 12th standard mark sheet

 

NDA Medical Exam 2024 Selection Process

 

After the verification of documents, the eligible candidate will be called out for a medical check-up. Individual doctors and teams are hired for the check-up and the medical process is different for the Army wing, navy wing, and Air Force wing.

 

Only the candidates who will be declared fit are given admission to the training academy. The staff of the Armed Forces Medical Services Hospital will guide the candidate for the check-up and document submission.

 

The medical procedure will be the same for the males and females although the females will have to submit a detailed report from a certified gynecologist. Other than this eye, hearing, liver test, blood test, surgical, dental, and respiratory checkups will take place for both males and females.

 

NDA Merit List 2024

 

Once the selection is binded up of all the students, the authorities create a merit list based on the scores of written examination and other stages, the list is issued by the commission on the official website and then the training of the selected students takes place.

 

NDA Disqualification Rules

 

Particular disqualification rules are created for the candidates, participants must take a look at the rules and take steps accordingly. Some of the rules are mentioned below.

 

  • Any health issue in the medical checkup.
  • If any miss information found in the mark sheets.
  • Any criminal history of the candidate.
  • Disability to clear the physical exam.

NDA 2 Application Form 2025, Apply Online Link at upsc.gov.in

NDA 2 Application Form 2025, Apply Online Link at upsc.gov.in NDA 2 Registration 2025:…

NDA 2 Application Form 2025, Apply Online Link at upsc.gov.in

NDA 2 Application Form 2025, Apply Online Link at upsc.gov.in

 

NDA 2 Registration 2025: The online application for NDA 2 started on 15 May 2025 and closed on 4 June 2025. And the correction window opened for students on 5 June 2025 till 11 June 2025.

Interested candidates can visit the official website of UPSC and register using the One Time Registration Portal (OTRP). You can make an account using your registered Email ID or phone number and then fill out the application form for NDA 2.

The application fee for general/OBC category candidates is 100 rupees and is free for SC/ST students, female candidates, and wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs category students.

NDA 2 Correction Window 2025: The UPSC opened the correction window for NDA 2 applications from 5 June 2025 to 11 June 2025. You can change any of the given information except the exam center in those 7 days after the closure of the application window of NDA 2.

If you have anything you want to correct in your OTR profile then you can log in to your OTR portal and make the necessary changes in that correction window.

 

How To Make Correction Changes In NDA 2 Application Form?

 

Here are the steps you can follow to perfectly make the necessary changes in the application form if the correction window is opened.

 

Step 1: First of all, go through the application form multiple times and see for mistakes or incorrect responses, and make a list of the same.

Step 2: Go to the UPSC’s Official Website.

Step 3: Login using your registered mobile number/ Email ID/ OTR ID.

Step 4: Enter the OTP/ Password and verification code and then click on the Login button.

Step 5: Click on the NDA 2 application form 2025

Step 6: Make necessary changes and updations and then click on the “Submit” button.

Step 7: Don’t forget to download the updated application form in case the need for it arises later.

 

Documents Required For NDA 2025 Application Form

Before applying for NDA, you need to have some documents prepared beforehand. The details and documents needed for the registration process of NDA require you to have the following documents.

  • One passport-size recent photograph (Scanned)
  • One valid photo identity proof (Aadhar Card/PAN card/ Driving License/ Voter ID Card)
  • Candidate’s Signature (Scanned)
  • Class X th and XII th mark sheet
  • Caste Certificate
  • Domicile Certificate

NDA 2025 Application Process

The NDA application process includes many steps and stages the compilation of which is given below with proper order.

 

Step 1: Visit UPSC’s Official Website

Step 2: Click on the “New Registration” button on the middle of the page

Step 3: Provide all the asked details and documents

Step 4: Now select a branch among the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy

Step 5: OTR ID will be shown to you. Download and keep it

Step 6: Now visit the same website. Official Website

Step 7: Login using mobile number/ Email ID/ OTR ID

Step 8: Pay the application fee of NDA

Step 9: Select the exam center according to your preferences

Step 10: Upload scanned photographs, identity proof, and signature

Step 11: Click on the terms and conditions and then submit the application form.

Step 12: Download the copy of the application form and keep it for future reference.

What is the Difference Between NDA and IMA Training?

What is the Difference Between NDA and IMA Training? NDA ( National Defence Academy) is…

NDA Exam Mistakes That Should Be Avoided

What is the Difference Between NDA and IMA Training?

 

NDA ( National Defence Academy) is a defence training institute of the Indian Armed Forces. It recruits candidates through the NDA entrance exam at a national-level. Any 12th passed student can apply for this exam. NDA exam is conducted in three tiers i.e. a written test, the SSB Interview and medical test. Candidates who qualify in all three stages get selected for the NDA training.

 

What is IMA Training?

 

IMA (Indian Military Academy), is a prestigious training institution of Indian Armed Services. Candidates can get selected for IMA training through three ways. First, when a candidate finishes 3 years of NDA training and chooses the Indian Army. 

 

Second, Candidates who qualify for all three stages of the CDS entrance exam. Third, an engineering graduate who applies for the SSB interview directly and qualifies.

 

The Difference Between NDA and IMA Training?

 

In Duration

 

The NDA Training for defense services in the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force is for 3 years while The IMA Training for Indian Army varies from 12 to 18 months.

 

In Selection Process

 

Candidates who qualify for the CDS exam and the SSB interview get selected for 18 months of training while candidates who enter after 3 years of NDA training and choose for Indian Armed Forces, get accepted for 12 months of training at IMA. Technical graduates who pass the SSB exam go for 12 months of training with IMA.

 

For NDA training selection, A candidate needs to pass all the three phases of the NDA exam. This training is given for all three wings of defense forces i.e. Indian Navy, Indian Army and Indian Air Force for 3 years.

 

Eligibility

 

For NDA Training entry, a candidate must have a 12th Board certificate. For IMA Training through the CDS exam, a candidate must have a bachelor’s degree. NDA training qualified candidates can directly begin IMA training after 3 years. A technical graduate must have a BE or B.Tech. from any recognized university of India to apply for the SSB interview and get selected for IMA Training.

 

Age Limit

 

NDA qualification requires students from age group 16.5 to 19.5 years. IMA entry through CDS exam accepts students aged from 19 to 25 years. IMA technical entries for engineering graduates require an age limit between 20 to 27 years.

 

Type

 

Candidates going through NDA training can go for any of the three defence services i.e. Army, Air Force or Navy after three years. IMA training is specially given for entry into the Indian Armed Forces.

 

Learning

 

In NDA training, candidates learn about military campaigns, military law history, and training for specific services. IMA training candidates learn mostly about drills, leadership improvement, weapons and physical training.

NDA Exam Mistakes That Should Be Avoided

CDS Salary 2024: In-Hand Salary, Structure, and Allowances CDS ( Combined Defence Services exam )…

NDA Exam Mistakes That Should Be Avoided

NDA Exams Mistakes That Should Be Avoided 2024

NDA exam preparation takes time and effort. The stress level at the time of preparation is high but candidates making some silly mistakes make it more difficult to clear the exam. These common mistakes can cost you the exam. You can make yourself well-prepared to ensure you don’t make these mistakes.

 

Mistakes Students Make While Preparing for National Defence Academy

More than one lakh students appear for this exam. These times while preparation can be stressful for the candidate. Candidates can make themselves well-prepared by avoiding these mistakes and cracking the NDA exam.

 

1. Not Understanding the Syllabus

Understanding your NDA syllabus is one of the cores of your NDA preparation. Focus on understanding the syllabus before starting your syllabus. Many students make the mistake of they know it-all and do not bother to read the syllabus. This can be your biggest barrier in scoring your desired marks.

Download or print out the syllabus from the official site and remind yourself about following the syllabus all the time.

 

2. Not Selecting the Right Books

One of the most common mistakes student makes while preparing for NDA is not buying the right books. Right books will help you understand the concept better and can also help you score more marks in the exam.

Students often make the mistake of buying the wrong books. They choose books that are not truly relevant to the topic or they are too difficult to understand. As a result, they waste their time and are also not able to score desired marks.

It’s important to choose the right books while preparing for your exam. Your seniors or anyone who has appeared for the exam will you guide to choose the best books. Not many students have a clear understanding of concepts of various topics, so the best method is to start your NDA preparation for NCERT books to get a clear idea of the concepts. After getting a good understanding of the fundamentals you can move to sample papers and advanced books.

 

3. Doing Fewer Practice Tests

Skipping practice tests while preparing for the NDA exam is a major problem among beginner candidates. Without practice, you will not get fully prepared for the type of questions in the NDA exam. Practice tests for the NDA exam will help you work on your weaknesses. As a result, you will more likely to perform well in the NDA exam and meet your desired marks.

 

4. Not having a Study Schedule

You can not be fully prepared for the NDA exam if you lack a study schedule. A study schedule helps you keep track of your progress and it will help you utilize your time hours and days. Make a realistic study schedule and stick to it till your exam day.

Sticking to a study schedule needs discipline. Make your study schedule flexible so that you can make adjustments. A study schedule will help you make the most of your time and can also help you improve your chances of success.

 

5. Dropping a Year after 12th

Many students make the mistake of dropping out of school after 12th. Students’ common reason for dropping out after the 12th is that they are not prepared for the NDA exam. They are not confident as their syllabus and NDA syllabus doesn’t match.

Students must prepare for the NDA exam after the 12th instead of dropping out. 

Science students have an advantage in subjects like chemistry, physics and mathematics whereas arts students do well in history, social studies, English, Geography and current affairs.

 

6. Not Revising

Not taking revision seriously can have consequences. Students not taking revision of the NDA exam properly struggle to remember key moments and make mistakes that become a barrier to getting their desired result.

It is important to revise with a dedication to clear the exams. Those who do not take revision seriously are risking their future.

 

7. Not Knowing the Right Format to Study

Follow a specific format while studying to study effectively. Everyone has a different way of learning, what works for one student may not work for another. Find a study method that works by experimenting and stick to one which fits you. If you are confused about which study method to use, experiment with different techniques and find one that fits your learning style

 

Conclusion

National Defence Academy (NDA) is a highly competitive examination that requires a comprehensive approach. There are common mistakes that can be avoided which are reducing the chances of your success. The NDA exam is tough but by correct preparation and avoiding these mistakes you can increase your chances of success.

Things to focus on to get well prepared like the right format to study, revising properly, sticking to a study schedule, doing a practice test, and selecting the right books. By avoiding these mistakes you can increase the chances of your success and crack NDA.

Make sure you follow the guidelines and have all the necessary documents on the admit card. Try to remain calm as possible and avoid guesswork.

 

FAQS

 

Q1. Can a 12th Fail Apply for NDA?

Ans. No, you are not eligible to apply for NDA if you have failed your class 12th board examination.

 

Q2. What Causes Permanent Rejection in NDA?

Ans. Permanent rejection happens in NDA if there is any medical condition that can’t be treated within a certain period.

 

Q3. Is 3.5 Allowed in NDA?

Ans. The worst eye vision should be 6/9 and the distance vision should be 6/6. Hypermetropia more than 3.5 D including astigmatism is not allowed. Myopia of more than 2.5 D is not allowed.

 

Q4. How Much Time is Enough to Crack NDA?

Ans. With determination, Focus and self-belief it’s not difficult to crack NDA in six months. Six months is not much of a time so you have to make the most out of each day.

 

Q5. How much Chest is Required for NDA?

Ans. A fully expanded chest should not be less than 81 cms. The minimum range of expansion should be 5 cms.