Last Month CDS 2 2025 Exam Preparation Strategy
The CDS 2 2025 exam is scheduled for 14th September, which means we’ve officially entered the final month of preparation. Yes, just about 30 days left—do or die.
ALL About NDA Exam Pattern 2024
Table of Contents
Introduction
NDA exam pattern for 2024 consists of two papers General Ability test (GAT) and Mathematics, you get 2.5 hours for each exam. You should Understand the exam pattern, before applying for any exam. This will you prepare for the exam and you can increase your chance of success. In this blog we have provided you NDA exam pattern, you can also download free NDA exam syllabus pdf this will help you understand entire NDA exam structure so you can prepare accordingly.
UPSC conducts NDA exam twice a year. This NDA exam pattern guide will help you understand NDA written exam syllabus, marking scheme and SSB interview pattern.
NDA Exam Pattern 2024
By understanding NDA exam pattern you will get a clear idea how to prepare for the exam, so you can create a study schedule based on it. NDA exam is divided into two parts
Part 1: Written Exam – General Ability test (GAT) and Mathematics
Part 2: SSB Interview
A complete understanding of NDA exam will increase your chance to succeed.
NDA Exam Pattern: Overview
A Quick overview of NDA Written Exam:
Particulars | Details |
Exam Mode | Offline |
Papers in NDA Exam | 1.Mathematics |
2. General Ability Test | |
Total Marks | 1.Mathematics – 300 marks |
2. General Ability Test – 600 marks | |
Total Questions | 1.Mathematics – 120 question |
2. General Ability Test – 150 question | |
Negative Marking | 1.Mathematics – 0.83 marks |
2.General Ability Test – 1.33 marks | |
Exam Duration | 2.5 hours (for each section) |
NDA Written Exam Pattern
Written exam is the first step in selection process, NDA Written exam written exam is conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) and it is divided into two parts General Ability test (GAT) and Mathematics.
NDA GAT Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Marking Schem
GAT is divided into two parts- English and General Knowledge, it tests your English grammar, vocabulary and reading comprehension and your awareness in current affairs and other subjects.
English: This section of GAT has 50 questions, 4 marks each. Total marks for this section is 200. This section will test your knowledge in English vocabulary, grammar and reading comprehension.
General Knowledge: General Knowledge has 100 questions, 4 marks each. Total marks 400. Question in this section will test your knowledge in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, Polity and Current Affairs.
General Ability Exam Pattern | |
Total Questions | 150 |
Total Marks | 600 marks |
Total questions in English Section | 50 |
Total of questions in General Knowledge Section | 100 |
Total Marks for English | 200 marks |
Total Marks for G.K | 400 marks |
Marks for Correct Answers | 1.English – 4 marks |
2.G.K – 4 marks | |
Marks for incorrect answer | 1.English – (1.33 marks) |
2.G.K – (1.33 marks) | |
Exam Duration | 2.5 hours |
Exam Duration
You’ll get 2.5 hours for GAT exam. This means that you will have 150 minutes for 150 questions.
Tips For preparation
- Stay updated by daily reading newspapers, make sure to verify the source before, some sites that you can check are (The Hindu, Times of India) and also these Government sites for official statements ( Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of External Affairs(MEA))
- For other subjects you can use 11th and 12th class NCERT.
- Avoid guessing answers, because NDA GAT exam has negative marking scheme.
- If you want proper guidance you can join an NDA coaching center (optional).
NDA Math’s Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Marking Scheme
NDA Maths exam consists of 120 questions, 2.5 marks each and -0.83 will be deducted for each wrong answer. Total marks for this exam is 300. NDA Math’s Exams checks fundamental mathematical concepts covered in 11th, and 12th NCERT.
NDA Mathematics Exam Pattern | |
Total Questions | 120 |
Total Marks | 300 |
Marks for correct answer | 2.5 marks |
Marks for incorrect answer | -(0.83) marks |
Exam Duration | 2.5 hours |
Points To Remember During NDA , SSB Interview
Be honest: Do not lie while answering the questions because SSB interviewers are highly trained professionals skilled at catching lies. They can catch your lies by cross questioning or body language and if you are caught lying, you’ll most likely be disqualified from the selection process.
Stay Updated: You can be asked about current affairs, this shows your general awareness and it can increase your chance of selection.
Prepare for Tests: Practice Writing Picture Perception Description Tests (PPDT) and Situation Reaction Tests (SRTs). There are many resources available online and can join good coaching centers to help you prepare for these tests.
Maintain Physical Fitness: SSB interview also includes physical activities. So make sure you are in good physical condition.
Dress Formally: Be aware of your Dressing sense, Dress decently and appropriately throughout the SSB interview.
Teamwork: The SSB interview heavily focuses on teamwork skills. Be a good listener, participate actively in group discussions, and cooperate with your fellow candidates.
Leadership: Demonstrate leadership qualities by taking initiative, organizing tasks, and motivating others.
NDA Marking Scheme
In the end we will also see NDA Marking Scheme for the written exam:
Elements | Mathematics | GAT |
Total Questions | 120 | 150 |
Total Marks | 300 | 600 |
Marks for correct answer | 2.5 | 4 |
Marks for incorrect answer | -0.83 | -1.33 |
Also, check
GD Tips: Group Discussion Tips For Interview
SSB Interview and Selection Process for NDA 2024
How to Prepare for NDA GAT Exam ?
How to prepare for NDA Mathematics exam ?
Last 30 Days Strategy For NDA 1 2024, Preparation Tips to Ace the Exam
Contact Us
For any inquiries or assistance regarding NDA coaching in Dehradun, feel free to reach out to us. Here’s how you can get in touch:
Address: Sahastradhara Rd, near kriti appartment, opp. shani dev mandir, B Block, Aman Vihar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001
Visit us at our campus located in Dehradun.
Phone Numbers:
You can contact us directly via phone for immediate assistance. Our phone numbers are +91- 099970 34744and + 91-7599367318.
Email: cadetsdefenceacademy@gmail.com
Do you have a question or require additional details? Send us an email at cadetsdefenceacademy@gmail.com Our team will get back to you promptly with the answers you need.
Website & Social Media Links:
Explore our website, www.cadetsdefenceacademy.com, for comprehensive details about our NDA coaching programs and facilities. Stay updated with the latest news and announcements by following us on social media. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
Feel free to reach out to us through any of the channels mentioned above. We’re here to assist you on your journey towards achieving your NDA coaching goals in Dehradun.
NDA Exam Pattern 2024 FAQs
You need to be 16.5 and 19.5 years old
NDA selection process has two stages:
- Written Exam conducted by UPSC.
- SSB Interview conducted by Services Selection Board.
Yes NDA exam has negative marking scheme for both Mathematics and GAT.
There is no minimum qualifying marks for the NDA written exam however, to get shortlisted for the SSB interview, you need to score above the cut-off marks set by UPSC.
Reach Us
NDA SSB Coaching in Dehradun – Why Cadets Defence Academy is the Best Choice
NDA SSB Coaching in Dehradun – Why Cadets Defence Academy is the Best Choice Table of Contents Dreaming of joining the Indian Armed Forces? Then you probably already know how tough the NDA selection process is—especially the SSB interview stage. If you’re looking for the NDA SSB coaching in Dehradun, this blog is your complete guide. But more than that, it’s a little peek into why Cadets Defence Academy might just be the place where your dream begins to take shape. What’s the Big Deal About NDA and the SSB Interview Anyway? Let’s be real. Clearing the NDA written exam is just the beginning. The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is where things get intense. This is where your personality, thinking, and leadership skills get examined from every angle. It’s not your typical test—it’s five days of tasks, group discussions, psychological testing, and personal interviews. So naturally, a good NDA SSB coaching isn’t just about notes and lectures. You need mentoring, real practice, and guidance that feels like you’re training for life—not just an exam. Why Even Look for NDA SSB Coaching in Dehradun? Well, here’s the thing. Dehradun isn’t just a scenic town located in Uttarakhand—it’s a full-blown education and defence preparation hub. With institutions like IMA and RIMC, it carries a military vibe that’s both inspiring and focused. Students from all corners of India come here for training because it creates the right mindset. And unlike coaching in big cities, there’s less noise here—more greenery, more discipline, and a culture that respects preparation. So, What Makes Cadets Defence Academy So Special? Ah, this is where it gets interesting. There are many coaching centres, sure. But Cadets Defence Academy offers something way beyond classes. Let’s break it down: Instructors with real defence experience – many have been part of the forces or worked in the SSB process itself. Daily physical training – not just for stamina but for building officer-like qualities. Mock SSB sessions – including Group Tasks, Psych Tests, and Interview practice. Personal attention – classes are structured so no student feels “lost in the crowd.” It’s this mix of mentorship and realism that makes Cadets stand out among Best NDA SSB coaching in Dehradun options. What About Infrastructure, Hostel & All That? Good question. You can’t focus on cracking the SSB when your daily life is a mess, right? Here’s what students get when they join: Separate hostel facilities for boys and girls Nutritious meals (no skipping meals here) Smart classrooms and open ground for outdoor tasks Doubt-clearing session and quality study material And not to forget, the surroundings of Dehradun give you fresh air and that much-needed mental peace. NDA Written + SSB Integrated Course Options Not every student is just looking for SSB training—many are starting their journey right from the written exam stage. That’s why at Cadets Defence Academy, we offer complete NDA preparation courses that cover both the written test and the SSB interview—all under one roof. Here’s a quick breakdown of our integrated programs: NDA Foundation Course (After Class 10th or 11th) Designed for students who want to start early. Combines school-level academics + NDA syllabus + physical training. Helps build the right mindset from day one. NDA Written + SSB Combo Course (After 12th) Complete coaching for Maths, English, and General Ability. Regular weekly and monthly tests. Once you clear the written exam, transition directly into SSB preparation with the same mentors. SSB-Only Fast Track Course For those who’ve already cleared NDA written and need focused SSB training. Each course is crafted with flexibility in mind. Whether you’re starting fresh or repeating, Cadets Defence Academy has an NDA SSB coaching plan designed to your level, timeline, and goal. And the best part? No need to shift academies after clearing the written—you stay with mentors who already understand your strengths and areas for growth. How is SSB Training Conducted Here? Alright, let’s get into the real thing. Cadets Defence Academy follows a structured yet flexible approach: Psychological Tests: TAT, WAT, SRT, and SD—each with expert analysis. Group Tasks: From obstacle races to military planning exercises. Personal Interviews: Just like the real ones—tough but growth-oriented. Communication Skills: Tons of focus on English, public speaking, and confidence-building. Plus, we keep updating techniques as per current SSB trends. No outdated notes or recycled materials. Tips for Parents: How You Can Support Your Child’s NDA Dream Let’s be honest—behind every NDA aspirant is a parent who’s either quietly cheering or frantically Googling “best NDA coaching in Dehradun.” If you’re reading this, chances are you’re already doing your part. But still, here are a few real-world tips that can actually make a big difference in your child’s NDA journey. Let Them Take Ownership You can guide, but don’t micromanage. The NDA process—especially SSB—requires independent thinking and self-awareness. Encourage them to plan their schedule, pack their bags, even handle admissions themselves. Confidence builds from responsibility. Prioritize Health Over Just Marks Yes, written preperation is important. But without fitness, they won’t clear the physical or GTO rounds. Help them develop good food habits, early mornings, and outdoor routines—even if they complain at first. Talk, Don’t Pressure Not everyone cracks NDA in the first attempt. Some take two, even three tries. Your support during failures matters more than any coaching class. Stay Involved, But Give Space Attend orientation if possible. Talk to the mentors. But after that—trust the process. SSB prep especially demands reflection, personal growth, and time alone. Keep Communication Open Call them, check on them—but avoid daily “kitna padha?” calls. Instead ask: How are the group tasks? Enjoying the physical drills? Learnt something new about yourself? Sometimes, just being a calm, understanding presence is the biggest boost they can get. At Cadets Defence Academy, we don’t just train cadets—we walk with families too. If you’re a parent reading this, know that your encouragement, calmness, and trust will play a huge part in your child’s journey to the NDA. Final Thoughts: Is This the Coaching You’ve Been Looking For? Choosing
Important SSB Interview Questions Every Aspirant Must Prepare For
Important SSB Interview Questions Every Aspirant Must Prepare For Table of Contents If you’re preparing up for the SSB interview, chances are you’ve been scanning the internet, scribbling notes, watching mock interviews, and wondering—what exactly are they gonna ask me? You’re not alone. The SSB interview process can feel intense, but don’t worry—we’re gonna break it all down right here. In this blog, we’ll walk through the important SSB interview questions you need to know, the mindset you should carry, and the tricks that can help you stand out, naturally. Not like a rehearsed robot, but like you, the future officer. What is the SSB Interview Anyway? Before jumping straight into the questions, let’s just take a second to understand the bigger picture. The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is not your typical job interview. It’s designed to dig deep into your personality, mindset, leadership qualities, and potential to become an officer in the Armed Forces. It’s a five-day process (yup, five full days) where you go through multiple rounds: Screening Test Psychological Tests Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks Personal Interview Conference Round And the personal interview is where many candidates either shine—or stumble. That’s why being prepared with important SSB interview questions can really boost your confidence. The Classic Personal Interview Questions Let’s start with the basics. These aren’t just ice-breakers; they’re windows into your personality. “Tell me about yourself.”Sounds easy, right? But many aspirants mess this up by rambling. Keep it honest, flowy, and to the point. Focus on your background, values, goals—without sounding like a school essay. “Why do you want to join the Armed Forces?”This one’s huge. Avoid textbook answers like “I want to serve the nation.” That’s understood. Dig deeper. Talk about your personal journey—maybe a family connection, or a moment that sparked the passion. “Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses.”Don’t say perfectionist as a weakness, everyone does. Instead, talk about a real issue and how you’re working on it. “What are your hobbies?”Mention genuine hobbies. If you say “reading,” be ready to talk about the last 2-3 books you’ve read. The key with all these important SSB interview questions is to be authentic. Don’t just say what you think they wanna hear. That usually backfires. Let’s Talk Psychology (Just a Bit) Okay, so there’s this whole psychology part in the SSB. And guess what? Sometimes the interview questions touch on these areas too. For example, if in your Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) you wrote about a brave soldier, the interviewer may ask,“So you believe in taking bold decisions. Can you recall a time you did that in real life?” Boom. Caught off guard? Not if you’re ready. Sometimes they pick words from your Word Association Test (WAT) like “leader” or “risk” and frame follow-up questions around those. That’s why aligning your story across all stages really matters. Real-Life and Situation-Based Questions Now this is where things get fun—and tricky. They’ll throw scenarios at you and see how you react. These aren’t questions you can “mug up.” But knowing the type of important SSB interview questions can help you prepare your thinking. Some examples: “If your friend is cheating in an exam, what would you do?” “You see a man hitting a child on the street. Will you intervene?” “You’re leading a team and one member refuses to cooperate. What now?” Here’s the trick: They’re not testing just your answer, but your approach. Your reasoning. Your tone. So when you answer, don’t be in a rush. Think like an officer—calm, confident, balanced. The ‘Gyaan’ Section – Tips to Tackle Any Interview Question Let’s be real. You can’t prepare for every question, but you can prepare the way you answer. Here’s what helps: Self-awareness is your best tool. Know your story—your wins, your flaws, your turning points. Talk like a real person. Don’t fake accents or speak too formally. They want you, not a rehearsed script. Use examples. Don’t just say “I’m a team player.” Say, “In college, I was part of XYZ team, and this is how we handled a crisis…” Stay calm. Even if the question feels weird or uncomfortable. Also, rehearse. But don’t memorize. Talk to a mirror, or even better—record yourself and listen back. Cringe, yes. Helpful, big time. How About Current Affairs? Yep, that’s a thing too. Not a quiz round, but you’ll get questions like: “What are your views on India’s defence policy?” “What do you think about recent international conflicts?” “Tell me about the Agnipath Scheme.” Brush up on: Indian Armed Forces structure Defence news (DRDO, indigenous weapons, etc.) General knowledge from the last 3–6 months Don’t know an answer? Say it politely. “I’m not fully aware of the details but I’ll definitely read up on it.” Done. Important SSB Interview Questions You Must Prepare These important SSB interview questions are designed to evaluate how you think, act under pressure, lead, adapt, and communicate. Go through each one honestly—this isn’t about giving the “perfect” answer, but about showing your mindset, self-awareness, and leadership potential. Tell me about yourself. What future goals have you set for your career, and how does the armed forces fit into them? In what ways do you manage your time effectively during daily tasks or studies? Can you describe a moment when you had to obey an order that you personally didn’t agree with? How do you make sure your decisions and actions follow ethical values? What inspired you to pursue a career in the Indian Armed Forces? How do you usually respond to setbacks or failures in your life? Share an example when you came up with a creative solution to a challenging situation. Why do you think self-discipline is crucial in the life of a soldier? Have you ever worked in tough or uncomfortable conditions? How did you manage? How do you stay focused and calm when pressure starts building up? Tell us about a time when you successfully handled a conflict with someone. How do you react to criticism
