UPSC NDA Eligibility 2026: Age Limit, Qualification

UPSC NDA Eligibility 2026 criteria should be met by the candidates who want to apply for the Army, Navy, or Air Force through the National Defence Academy. The eligibility criteria for NDA 2026 include academic qualifications, age limits, nationality, marital status, and physical fitness standards.  In addition, candidates should pay attention to specific subjects for the Air Force and Naval wings, and maintain physical fitness for the medical examinations. 

Understanding these standards is necessary to avoid disqualification and ensure smooth progression from examination to training. Further, till the latest official notification for UPSC NDA Eligibility 2026 is released, candidates can use the details from previous year trends for reference purposes.

UPSC NDA Eligibility 2026 Criteria Overview

The latest UPSC NDA eligibility criteria 2026 notification has not yet been released. It may cover all essential requirements such as age, education, gender, marital status, nationality, and physical standards. Knowing these rules can help applicants plan their preparation efficiently. Further, it can help them confirm their eligibility for the exam and training later. From here, interested candidates can learn about the estimated eligibility criteria for NDA 2026:

Note: Candidates are required to meet all criteria listed above before applying for UPSC NDA 2026 to avoid rejection or disqualification. Further, they can visit the official portal to read the latest official notification about the eligibility details, once released.

UPSC NDA Age Limit 2026

Learning about the UPSC NDA age limit can help candidates determine whether they are of the right age to apply for NDA 2026 or not. It should be noted that NDA 1 and NDA 2 have slightly different age ranges to allow candidates born in specific periods to apply. Further, age verification using official documents is mandatory during registration.

Note: The above-mentioned timeline is for indicative purposes only. Interested candidates can read out the latest official notification to confirm the age limit, once released.

UPSC NDA Qualification 

UPSC NDA qualification requirements are different based on the chosen wing for applicants. Army wing candidates should have passed the 12th class or equivalent from any recognised board. Additionally, Air Force and Naval wings require candidates to clear their 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Candidates who are appearing in the qualifying exam are also eligible. However, they are required to submit proof of passing before training.

Note: Candidates are required to present their original academic certifications during the document verification stage. There are no strict percentage rules in 12th. However, they can visit the official UPSC portal to learn detailed information about how many percentage required for NDA.

NDA Physical Eligibility

NDA physical eligibility ensures candidates are capable of completing demanding military training. Both male and female applicants must be physically and mentally fit. Medical assessments and fitness tests are mandatory and conducted after clearing the entrance exam. Here, physical capability is as important as academic performance for final selection.

NDA Physical Eligibility for Males Candidates

Male candidates should meet defined height, weight, chest, vision, and hearing standards. These requirements are designed to prepare applicants for field exercises, drills, and endurance training. Candidates who do not meet these standards may be disqualified during the medical examination.

Note: Candidates are advised to maintain good physical fitness and consult medical guidelines before appearing for the medical examination. They are recommended to visit the official UPSC portal to learn details about all the eligibility parameters.

NDA Physical Requirements for Female Candidates

Female candidates should meet specific height, weight, vision, and hearing requirements to apply for the UPSC NDA 2026. Physical fitness is verified to ensure candidates can safely complete training exercises and meet the rigours of the Defence Academy.

Note: Female candidates should maintain consistent fitness levels before examination and medical assessments. For more details, they should go through the official notification PDF for the UPSC NDA 2026.

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NDA Nationality Requirements

Learning about the nationality eligibility helps learn which applicants are legally allowed to serve in the Indian defence forces. Indian citizens, subjects of Nepal or Bhutan, and persons of Indian origin from specified countries are eligible. Tibetan refugees who arrived before 1962 are also allowed for the UPSC NDA. Nationality proof documents are mandatory during registration and verification.

Note: Failure to provide valid nationality proof will result in disqualification. Therefore, candidates should carry their original and valid certificates to prove their nationality during document verification.

Other Important UPSC NDA Eligibility 2026 Requirements

Other eligibility requirements to appear in UPSC NDA 2026 include marital status, conduct, and document accuracy. Candidates are required to follow these points carefully to ensure they remain eligible for UPSC NDA:

• Only unmarried candidates are allowed to apply to maintain eligibility for training schedules.
• Candidates should maintain good conduct and a clean record, as any criminal charges may result in disqualification.
• Applicants should note that there is no strict percentage required for NDA in 12th standard to apply.
• They should complete all registration and application forms accurately to avoid rejection.
• They should ensure that photographs and ID proofs match during document verification and examination stages.

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