UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024

PWOnlyIAS June 05, 2024 11:20 2128 0

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 is very important for the NDA Aspirants. Check out the UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 for both the written Exam and SSB interview of NDA Exam.

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 is very important for the students preparing for the NDA Exam 2024. The NDA 2 Exam 2024 is scheduled to be held on 1st September 2024, and the Application Form for the NDA Exam 2024 is active from 15th May 2024 to 4th June 2024. Candidates Should be well versed with the UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024.

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 consists of two parts: UPSC NDA Exam Pattern for Written Exam and UPSC  NDA Exam Pattern for SSB Interview. The students preparing for the NDA Exam 2024, should know the complete UPSC NDA Exam Pattern. The UPSC NDA Exam Pattern for Written Exam consists of two Papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). Mathematics, which is Paper I, is worth 300 marks and GAT, which is Paper II, is worth 600 Marks.

Let us have a look at the UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 for the NDA Written Exam as well as UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 for the NDA SSB Interview. The complete selection process of the UPSC NDA Exam 2024 is also given here.

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 Overview

The NDA 1 Exam 2024 Notification was released by the UPSC on its official website on 15th May 2024. The UPSC NDA Exam 2024 is held twice annually, UPSC NDA1 Exam 2024, and UPSC NDA 2 Exam 2024. NDA 1 Exam 2024 was held on 21st April 2024, and the NDA 2 Exam 2024 is scheduled to be held on 1st September 2024. Candidates should be fully aware of the UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024.

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The table below contains the Complete overview of the UPSC NDA ExamPattern  2024:

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 Overview
Particulars Details
Exam Name UPSC NDA Exam 2024
Conducted  by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Level of Exam National Level
Frequency of Exam Two times a year (NDA 1 and NDA 2)
Mode of Exam Offline (Pen and Paper Exam)
NDA 1 Exam 2024 Exam Date 21st April 2024
NDA 1 Exam 2024 Result Date 9th May 2024
NDA 2 Exam 2024 Exam Date 1st September 2024
NDA 2 Exam 2024 Application Form 15th May 2024
Exam Stages
  • NDA Written Exam
  • UPSC SSB Interview
Exam Fees
  • ₹100 (Gen and OBC)
  • No fees (Female, SC, and ST)
Exam Duration 5 Hours (2.5 Hours for Maths and 2.5 Hours for GAT)
Language of Question Paper
  • English 
  • Hindi
No of Questions
  • Maths – 120
  • GAT – 150
No.of Papers
  • Two Papers: Maths (300 Marks) and GAT (600 Marks)
Marking Scheme
  • Correct Answers Marks: 2.5 Marks for Maths and 4 Marks for GAT
  • Negative Marking Penalty: 0.83 for Maths and 1.33 for GAT
Official Website www.upsc.gov.in

Also Read: UPSC NDA Syllabus 2024

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 – Written Phase

UPSC NDA Exam 2024 has two subject papers for its written phase. The two subjects in the NDA Exam are Mathematics, and General Ability Test (GAT). There are 120 Questions (300 Marks) in the Mathematics Paper, while there are 150 questions (600 Marks) in the GAT Paper. The total time allotted for each paper is 150 minutes, or two and a half hours.

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The table below contains the Exam Pattern of the NDA Exam 2024 for its Written Phase:

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024

Paper Subject No. of Questions Marks Time Allotted
Paper 1 Mathematics 120 300 2.5 hours (150 minutes)
Paper 2 General Ability Test (GAT) 150 600 2.5 hours (150 minutes)
Total 270 900 5 hours (300 minutes)

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 – SSB Interview

The UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 for the SSB Interview consists of two stages. Stage 1 includes the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and the Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT). Candidates who qualify proceed to Stage 2, which encompasses a series of psychological tests, group testing officer tasks, and a personal interview. 

The entire process spans four to five days, evaluating candidates on various competencies such as leadership, teamwork, and psychological fitness. Successful candidates from Stage 2 are recommended for training at the National Defence Academy. The complete UPSC NDA Exam Pattern of SSB Interview process for the SSB Interview is given below:

  • Day 1: The first day includes a Screening Test, which includes Intelligence Test and Picture Perception & Discussion Test – PPDT.
  • Day 2: The second day includes Psychological Tests, which includes Thematic Apperception Test or TAT, Word Association Test or WAT, Situation Reaction Test or SRT, Self-Description Test or SD.
  • Day 3: Third Day includes Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO Tasks), which includes Group Discussion, Group Planning Exercise, Progressive Group Tasks, Individual Obstacles, Half Group Tasks, Command Task, and Final Group Tasks
  • Day 4: Personal Interview
  • Day 5: Conference

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UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 – Selection Process

NDA Exam selection process involves four stages to select suitable candidates for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Below is an overview of the UPSC NDA Exam  2024 selection process:

1. UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 – Written Examination:

  1. The written exam phase of the NDA Exam comprises two papers: Mathematics and the GAT (General Ability Test).
  2. Mathematics (which is Paper I) is worth 300 marks, and the GAT (which is Paper II) is worth 600 marks, making the entire written exam worth 900 marks.
  3. Candidates are selected if they score above the cut-off marks in both papers to qualify for the SSB process, which is the next stage.
  4. There is a negative marking of one-third of the marks for each of the answers that were answered incorrectly​.

2. UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 – SSB Interview:

  1. Candidates who pass the NDA written examination are called for the 5 day NDA Services Selection Board (SSB) interview process.
  2. The SSB (Services Selection Board) interview is a 5-day process divided into two stages:
    1. Stage 1, which includes the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test and Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT).
    2. Stage 2, which includes the psychological tests, group testing officer (GTO) tasks, personal interviews (PI), and a final conference​.

3. UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 – Medical Examination:

  1. Candidates recommended by the SSB undergo a comprehensive medical examination at designated military hospitals.
  2. The medical tests ensure candidates meet the health standards required for service in the armed forces​.

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4. UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 – Final Merit List:

  1. The final selection in the National Defence Academy is based on the combined scores of the written exam phase and the SSB interview phase.
  2. Only the candidates who are declared medically fit and score sufficiently high on the merit list are selected for training at the NDA.

UPSC NDA Syllabus Overview

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024, when understood properly, calls out the need for the candidates to know the overview of the UPSC NDA Syllabus. The UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024 comprises two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The Mathematics paper covers topics like algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, and probability. 

The UPSC NDA Exam Pattern of GAT is divided into two sections: English and General Knowledge. The English section assesses grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. The General Knowledge section includes physics, chemistry, general science, history, geography, and current events. Both papers are objective type and are designed to test a candidate’s logical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and general awareness.

Let us have a look at the Complete overview of the UPSC NDA Exam Syllabus 2024.

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1. UPSC NDA Mathematics Syllabus Overview

The table below contains the overview of UPSC NDA Mathematics Syllabus:

UPSC NDA Mathematics Syllabus Overview
Topics Subtopics
1. Algebra Set theory, Relations, Functions, Complex numbers, Quadratic equations
2. Matrices and Determinants Types of matrices, Operations, Inverse, Determinants properties
3. Trigonometry Trigonometric ratios, Identities, Equations, Heights and Distances
4. Analytical Geometry Straight lines, Circles, Conic sections
5. Differential Calculus Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Applications of derivatives
6. Integral Calculus Integration, Definite integrals, Applications of integrals
7. Vector Algebra Vectors in space, Scalar and vector products
8. Statistics and Probability Measures of central tendency, Probability, Bayes’ theorem

2. UPSC NDA General Ability Test (GAT) Syllabus Overview

The table below contains the overview of UPSC NDA General Ability Test (GAT) Syllabus for all the subjects, including English, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography and Current Events: 

UPSC NDA General Ability Test (GAT) Syllabus Overview

Sections Topics
English Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Usage
Physics 1. Mechanics

  • Laws of Motion
  • Work, Energy, and Power
  • Rotational Motion
  • Gravitation

2. Properties of Matter

  • Elasticity
  • Fluid Mechanics
  • Surface Tension and Viscosity

3. Thermodynamics

  • Thermal Expansion
  • Heat and Temperature
  • Laws of Thermodynamics

4. Waves and Oscillations

  • Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)
  • Wave Motion

5. Electrostatics and Current Electricity

  • Electrostatics
  • Current Electricity

6. Magnetism and Electromagnetic Induction

  • Magnetism
  • Electromagnetic Induction

7. Optics

  • Reflection and Refraction
  • Wave Optics
  • Optical Instruments

8. Modern Physics

  • Photoelectric Effect
  • Atomic Structure
  • Nuclear Physics

9. Electronics

  • Semiconductors

10. Miscellaneous Topics

  • Communication Systems
  • Astronomy
Chemistry 1. Physical Chemistry

  • States of Matter
  • Atomic Structure
  • Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
  • Chemical Thermodynamics
  • Solutions
  • Equilibrium
  • Redox Reactions and Electrochemistry
  • Chemical Kinetics
  • Surface Chemistry

2. Inorganic Chemistry

  • Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
  • Hydrogen
  • s-Block Elements (Alkali and Alkaline earth metals)
  • p-Block Elements
  • d- and f-Block Elements
  • Coordination Compounds
  • Environmental Chemistry

3. Organic Chemistry

  • Some Basic Principles of Organic Chemistry
  • Hydrocarbons
  • Organic Compounds Containing Halogens
  • Organic Compounds Containing Oxygen
  • Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen
  • Polymers
  • Biomolecules
  • Chemistry in Everyday Life

4. General Chemistry

  • Basic Concepts of Chemistry
  • States of Matter: Gases and Liquids
  • Structure of Atom
  • Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
  • Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
  • Thermodynamics
  • Equilibrium
  • Redox Reactions
  • Hydrogen
  • s-Block Elements
  • Some p-Block Elements
  • Organic Chemistry – Some Basic Principles and Techniques
  • Hydrocarbons
  • Environmental Chemistry
General Science 1. Biology

  • Cell Biology
  • Genetics
  • Evolution
  • Ecology and Environment

2. Human Body

  • Digestive System
  • Respiratory System
  • Circulatory System
  • Excretory System
  • Nervous System
  • Endocrine System
  • Reproductive System
  • Skeletal System
  • Muscular System
  • Immune System

3. Food and Nutrition

  • Nutrients and Their Functions
  • Balanced Diet
  • Malnutrition and Deficiency Diseases
  • Food Preservation

4. Life Processes

  • Photosynthesis
  • Respiration
  • Transportation in Plants and Animals
  • Reproduction in Plants and Animals
History 1. Ancient History

  • Indus Valley Civilization
  • Vedic Period
  • Mauryan Empire
  • Gupta Empire
  • South Indian Dynasties

2. Medieval History

  • Delhi Sultanate
  • Mughal Empire
  • Vijayanagara Empire
  • Bhakti and Sufi Movements
  • Regional Kingdoms

3. Modern History

  • Advent of Europeans in India
  • British East India Company and its Policies
  • Revolt of 1857
  • Indian National Movement
  • Independence and Partition of India

4. Post-Independence History

  • Integration of Princely States
  • Reorganisation of States
  • Economic Policies and Planning
  • Social and Cultural Developments

5. World History

  • Renaissance and Reformation
  • Industrial Revolution
  • World Wars I and II
  • Cold War
  • Decolonization and National Movements in Asia and Africa

6. Miscellaneous Topics

  • Art and Culture
  • Important Historical Personalities
  • Major Historical Events and their Impact
Geography 1. Physical Geography

  • Earth and Universe
  • Lithosphere
  • Atmosphere
  • Hydrosphere

2. Climatology

  • Weather and Climate
  • Atmospheric Pressure and Winds
  • Precipitation
  • Climate Classification

3. Oceanography

  • Ocean Currents
  • Tides and Waves
  • Marine Resources

4. Geomorphology

  • Landforms and their Evolution
  • Rocks and Minerals
  • Plate Tectonics
  • Earthquakes and Volcanoes

5. Biogeography

  • Ecosystems
  • Biodiversity
  • Conservation of Natural Resources

6. Human Geography

  • Population
  • Migration
  • Settlements

7. Economic Geography

  • Agriculture
  • Industry
  • Transport and Communication
  • Trade

8. Regional Geography

  • Continents
  • Major Countries
  • Indian Geography
    • Physiographic Divisions
    • Climate
    • Rivers and Lakes
    • Natural Vegetation
    • Wildlife
    • Soils

9. Environmental Geography

  • Environmental Issues
  • Sustainable Development
  • Conservation Efforts

10. Map Reading and Interpretation

  • Types of Maps
  • Map Projections
  • Topographical Maps
  • Thematic Maps
Current Affairs 1. National Affairs

  • Government Policies and Schemes
  • Important Government Appointments
  • Major Government Initiatives and Projects
  • Economic Developments and Budget

2. International Affairs

  • International Organizations and Summits
  • Bilateral and Multilateral Relations
  • Global Economic Developments
  • International Agreements and Treaties

3. Defence and Security

  • Defence Exercises and Operations
  • Defence Deals and Acquisitions
  • Military Appointments
  • Internal Security Issues

4. Science and Technology

  • Innovations and Discoveries
  • Space Missions and Achievements
  • Health and Medical Advancements
  • Information Technology Developments

5. Environment and Ecology

  • Environmental Policies and Regulations
  • Climate Change Initiatives
  • Conservation Efforts and Biodiversity
  • Major Environmental Summits and Conferences

6. Sports

  • Major Sports Events and Tournaments
  • Achievements of Indian Athletes
  • Sports Awards and Honors
  • Important Changes in Sports Policies

7. Awards and Honors

  • National Awards
  • International Awards
  • Achievements in Various Fields
  • Recognitions and Honours

8. Economic Affairs

  • Economic Policies and Reforms
  • Banking and Finance Sector Developments
  • Trade and Commerce
  • Inflation and Economic Indicators

9. Cultural Affairs

  • Important Festivals and Events
  • Cultural Heritage and Conservation
  • Arts and Literature
  • UNESCO Heritage Sites

10. Miscellaneous

  • Important Obituaries
  • Major Legal Developments
  • Social Issues and Movements
  • Educational Reforms and Initiatives

NDA Exam Pattern 2024 – NDA Marking Scheme

  • Negative Marking: There will be a penalty for wrong answers. For each incorrect response, one-third (0.83 for Maths and 1.33 for GAT) of the marks assigned to that question are deducted.
  • Minimum Qualifying Marks: Candidates need to score the minimum qualifying marks separately in each paper as determined by the Commission.

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The table below contains the Marking scheme of UPSC NDA Exam 2024:

NDA 2 2024 Marking Scheme
Subject Correct Answers NDA Negative Marking
GAT 4 Marks for Correct Answer -1.33 Marks deducted
Mathematics 2.5 Marks for Correct Answer -0.83 Marks deducted

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Must Read
NDA 2 2024 Notification UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2024
UPSC NDA Syllabus 2024 UPSC NDA Eligibility Criteria 2024

 

UPSC NDA Exam Pattern FAQs

The UPSC NDA exam consists of two papers: Mathematics (300 marks for 120 questions) and General Ability Test (600 marks for 150 questions). Both papers are objective-type and conducted over a duration of 2.5 hours each.

The UPSC NDA entrance exam includes two subjects: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The GAT further comprises English, General Knowledge, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.

The UPSC NDA exam consists of two stages: a written exam and an SSB interview. The written exam is conducted twice a year, typically in April and September.

In the UPSC NDA (National Defence Academy) examination, candidates typically need to score at least 25% in each subject to qualify. However, the exact passing marks vary based on the cutoff set by the UPSC each year.

Yes, cracking the NDA in 3 months is possible with a disciplined study plan, focusing on core subjects, regular practice of previous years' papers, mock tests, and maintaining physical fitness. Consistency and dedication are key to success.
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