Job Overview
The UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026 is a prestigious defence recruitment conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to select young and talented candidates for officer-level training in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This recruitment drive is for admission to the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) for the NDA & NA (I) 2026 Course.
A total of 394 vacancies have been announced for male and female candidates who have passed or are appearing in 12th standard. This is a central government defence job offering high respect, job security, structured growth, and excellent salary benefits. Candidates selected through this exam will undergo rigorous training and later be commissioned as officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
This recruitment is considered one of the most competitive and respected defence exams in India, ideal for students who dream of serving the nation with pride and leadership.
Job Summary – UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | NDA & NA Officer (Training Entry) |
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Course Name | NDA & NA (I) 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 394 Posts |
| Job Location | All India |
| Qualification | 12th Pass / Appearing |
| Sector | Central Government – Defence |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Apply By | 30 December 2025 |
Vacancy Details – NDA & NA (I) 2026
The 394 vacancies are distributed across different academies and service wings. These posts are separately allotted for male and female candidates, and the final merit list is prepared accordingly.
National Defence Academy (NDA)
- Army Wing:
- Male: 198
- Female: 10
- Total: 208
- Navy (Executive Branch):
- Male: 37
- Female: 5
- Total: 42
- Air Force – Flying Branch:
- Male: 90
- Female: 2
- Total: 92
- Air Force – Ground Duty (Technical):
- Male: 16
- Female: 2
- Total: 18
- Air Force – Ground Duty (Non-Technical):
- Male: 8
- Female: 2
- Total: 10
Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme)
- Executive Branch:
- Male: 21
- Female: 3
- Total: 24
Total Vacancies: 394 Posts
Salary – UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026
Candidates selected through UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026 receive an attractive salary package along with multiple allowances after successful completion of training.
- Starting Salary (Lieutenant):
₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month (Pay Level 10)
Higher Rank Salary Progression
- Lieutenant Colonel to Major General: ₹1,21,200 – ₹2,12,400
- Lieutenant General (HAG Scale): ₹1,82,200 – ₹2,24,100
- Lieutenant General (HAG+): ₹2,05,400 – ₹2,24,400
- Vice Chief / Army Commander: ₹2,25,000 (Fixed)
- Chief of Army Staff: ₹2,50,000 (Fixed)
Along with salary, officers receive DA, HRA, Transport Allowance, Leave Benefits, Medical Facilities, and Pension Benefits.
Eligibility Criteria – UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026
Candidates must carefully check the eligibility conditions before applying.
Nationality
Applicants must be:
- Citizen of India, or
- Subject of Nepal, or
- Person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries with the intention to settle in India
Age Limit
- Candidates must be born between 02 July 2007 and 01 July 2010
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible
- Marriage during training will lead to disqualification
Educational Qualification
- Army Wing of NDA:
- 12th pass or appearing in any stream
- Navy, Air Force & Naval Academy:
- 12th pass with Physics and Mathematics
Important Notes:
- 12th appearing candidates are eligible
- 11th standard students are not eligible
Physical Standards
- Candidates must be medically and physically fit as per prescribed standards
- Those withdrawn or resigned from defence academies on disciplinary grounds are not eligible
Selection Process – UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026
The selection process is designed to test academic knowledge, intelligence, leadership, and personality traits.
Stage 1: Written Examination
- Paper I: Mathematics
- Paper II: General Ability Test (GAT)
Stage 2: SSB Intelligence & Personality Test
- Conducted over 5 days
- Tests leadership, confidence, decision-making, and officer-like qualities
Final Selection
- Based on written exam + SSB marks
- Subject to medical fitness and merit ranking
Exam Pattern – NDA I 2026
| Paper | Subject | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Mathematics | 2.5 Hours | 300 |
| Paper II | General Ability Test | 2.5 Hours | 600 |
| Total (Written) | 900 Marks | ||
| SSB Interview | 900 Marks |
- Objective type questions
- Bilingual paper (Hindi & English)
- Negative marking: 0.33 marks for each wrong answer
Application Fee
- Female / SC / ST Candidates: No Fee
- All Other Candidates: ₹100
How to Apply – UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026
Follow these simple steps to apply online:
- Visit the official UPSC website
- Open the NDA & NA (I) 2026 notification
- Click on Apply Online
- Complete registration and application form
- Upload photo, signature, and documents
- Pay the application fee, if applicable
- Submit the form before 30 December 2025
- Download and save the application confirmation
Important Dates – UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 10 December 2025 |
| Online Application Start | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
Why Choose UPSC NDA as a Career?
The UPSC NDA exam opens the door to a disciplined, respected, and adventurous life. Officers enjoy:
- Nationwide respect and pride
- Early leadership roles
- World-class training
- Stable career with growth
- Excellent salary and benefits
This opportunity is ideal for young aspirants who dream of leading from the front and serving the nation.
FAQs – UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026
Q1. Who can apply for UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026?
Candidates who have passed or are appearing in 12th standard and meet age and physical criteria can apply.
Q2. Are female candidates eligible for NDA 2026?
Yes, both male and female candidates are eligible for NDA and NA posts.
Q3. What is the total number of vacancies in NDA I 2026?
There are 394 total vacancies across Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Q4. What is the starting salary after NDA training?
The starting salary is ₹56,100 per month at Pay Level 10.
Q5. What is the last date to apply for UPSC NDA I 2026?
The last date to apply online is 30 December 2025.
External Links
- Official UPSC Website: Check the official apply link from notification
- Employment News: https://employment-news.gov.in
- Related Ministry Portal: https://ministry.gov.in
UPSC NDA I Recruitment 2026 is a golden opportunity for young aspirants aiming to become officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Apply on time, prepare smartly, and take the first step towards a prestigious defence career.