The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has started inviting applications for the **National Defence Academy (NDA)** and **Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I), 2026**. This recruitment drive offers **394 positions** for young men and women to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Interested students can apply online through the official UPSC website, **upsc.gov.in**. The application period began on **December 10, 2025**, and will close on **December 30, 2025**. The written exam is scheduled for **April 12, 2026**.
Key Dates
Keep these important dates in mind:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | December 10, 2025 |
| Online Application Starts | December 10, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | December 30, 2025 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | December 30, 2025 |
| Exam Date | April 12, 2026 |
| Admit Card & Result | Will be announced later |
Total Vacancies
UPSC aims to fill **394 posts** across various branches of the Indian Armed Forces. These include the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme).
| Cadet Name | Post Name | Total Posts |
|---|---|---|
| National Defence Academy (NDA) (Male/Female) | Army | 208 |
| Navy | 42 | |
| Air Force | 120 | |
| Naval Academy (NA) (Male) | 10+2 Cadet Entry | 24 |
| Total | 394 |
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)
Before applying, check if you meet the age and education requirements.
Age Limit (as of 2026)
Candidates must be born between **July 01, 2007**, and **July 01, 2010**. Both dates are included.
Educational Qualification
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For Army Wing of NDA: You must have passed the **12th Class** or its equivalent from any recognized Board or Institution in India.
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For Air Force and Naval Wings of NDA, and for the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at Naval Academy: You must have passed the **12th Exam with Physics and Mathematics** as subjects, or hold an equivalent qualification from a recognized Board or Institution in India.
Application Fee
The application fee varies by category:
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS Candidates | ₹100/- |
| SC / ST Candidates | ₹00/- (No Fee) |
You can pay the examination fee online using a Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking. You can also pay offline through E-Challan.
Selection Process
The selection process for UPSC NDA & NA 1 Recruitment 2026 includes several stages:
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Written Exam: The first stage is a written examination.
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SSB Interview: Candidates who clear the written exam will attend the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview.
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Document Verification: Your documents will be checked.
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Medical Examination: You will undergo a medical fitness test.
Salary Details
Selected candidates will receive a good salary package:
| Item | Amount (Per Month) |
|---|---|
| Salary | ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500/- |
| Allowances | As per Government rules |
How to Apply Online
Follow these simple steps to fill out your UPSC NDA & NA 1 application form:
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Read Notification: First, download and read the official UPSC NDA & NA 1 Notification 2025 PDF for all details.
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Visit Website: Go to the official UPSC website: **upsc.gov.in**.
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Apply Online: Look for the “Apply Online” link for NDA & NA (I) Examination 2026 and click it.
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Fill Form: Complete the online application form with your personal and educational details.
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Upload Documents: Upload all required documents, such as photographs and signatures.
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Pay Fees: Pay the application fee, if applicable, using the online payment options.
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Print Form: After submitting, download and print your final application form for future reference.
Important Links
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Apply Online: Click Here
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Download Official Notification: Click Here
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Official Website: Click Here