ALL About NDA Exam Pattern 2024

ALL About NDA Exam Pattern 2024 (2)

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 HinduTimes 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 Exam Pattern for SSB Interview

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

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:

  1. Written Exam conducted by UPSC.
  2. 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.

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Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification – Eligibility, Exam Dates, Salary, and How to Apply

Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification – Eligibility, Exam Dates, Salary, and How to Apply

Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification Table of Contents Do you want to serve the nation? If yes, then the Indian Air Force has released the Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification, and it’s a golden opportunity for all unmarried male and female aspirants looking to join the force under the Agnipath scheme. This isn’t just a job — it’s a chance to wear the uniform, gain real-life skills, earn respect, and maybe even continue as a permanent part of the Indian Air Force if you perform exceptionally during your four-year engagement. What’s Agniveer Vayu? So, here’s the deal. Under the Agnipath scheme, the Indian Air Force is inviting unmarried male and female candidates to apply for the Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification. This isn’t your typical recruitment drive. It’s a short-term engagement that lets you serve for four years, build skills, earn decent cash, and maybe even get absorbed into the regular Air Force ranks if you’re among the top performers. Important dates for Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 These are the important dates that you must note Online Registration: Starts 11 July 2025 at 11:00 AM and closes 31 July 2025 at 11:00 PM Online Exam (Phase-I): Begins from 25 September 2025 onwards Provisional Select List (PSL): Out by 15 May 2026 Final Enrolment List: Dropping 1 June 2026 Seriously, don’t wait till the last day to register. Who Can Apply for Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026? Let’s break it down. The Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification lists a bunch of criteria, but the main ones are:  Age Limit Candidates must be Born between 2 July 2005 and 2 January 2009 (inclusive). Shouldn’t be older than 21 years on enrolment date. Marital Status Only unmarried candidates are allowed. You must remain unmarried during the 4-year term. Female candidates? No pregnancies allowed during service; it can lead to discharge. Educational Qualifications For Science stream aspirants: 10+2 with Physics, Math & English (50% overall, 50% in English) OR 3-Year Engineering Diploma with same English marks OR 2-Year Vocational Course with Physics & Math For non-science folks: 10+2 in any stream with 50% overall and 50% in English OR 2-Year Vocational Course in any stream with same marks If you’re eligible for Science stream, you can opt to take both Science & Non-Science exams. Physical & Medical for Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 They don’t want couch potatoes. Here’s what you need physically: Height: 152 cm minimum for both; some relaxations apply Chest: Males need 77 cm with 5 cm expansion Vision: 6/12 corrected to 6/6; no LASIK, no exceptions Hearing: Normal. You should hear a whisper from 6 meters away. General Health: Clean teeth, fit body, no serious illnesses, mentally sharp. Also, tattoos are mostly banned, except on inner forearms or culturally accepted places. Salary and Perks at Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Okay, now the good part. What do you get in return? 1st Year: ₹30,000/month 4th Year: ₹40,000/month In-Hand: Around 70% after deductions Total Seva Nidhi (after 4 years): ₹10.04 Lakhs (without interest) Other Perks: CSD benefits, uniform, rations, risk/hardship allowance Insurance: ₹48 Lakhs life cover (non-contributory) But: No pension, no gratuity Selection For Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026   The Air Force Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification is divided into 3 phase. Phase-I: Online Exam Science Group: 60 mins – Physics, Math, English Non-Science: 45 mins – English + Reasoning & GA Both Groups: 85 mins Marking Scheme: +1 mark = Correct -0.25 = Wrong 0 = Unattempted Phase-II: Tests & Docs Physical Fitness Test: 1.6 km run: 7 min (male), 8 min (female) Push-ups, sit-ups, squats (as per gender) Adaptability Test I & II Document Verification Phase-III: Medical Full-body check-up, dental, vision, blood, urine, X-ray, ECG, etc. You can appeal if found unfit, but pay ₹40 via e-MRO. Click here to download official Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification official pdf How to Apply (And Do It Right) Here’s your step-by-step: Visit agnipathvayu.cdac.in Register between 11–31 July 2025 Upload: 10th & 12th mark sheets Recent photo (holding name/date slate) Thumb impression, signature Domicile/COAFP certificate Pay ₹550 + GST online Make sure your Aadhaar is handy. Without valid ID, you’re out. The Don’ts while Applying for Agniveer Vayu No multiple applications (you’ll get rejected) No mobile phones or smartwatches during tests No drug use (strict zero-tolerance) No fake documents or wrong info And no, you can’t change your exam centre later Click here to download official Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2026 Notification official pdf What Happens After? Alright, so you’ve cleared the medical, crushed the fitness tests, and passed all the exams — what next? Let’s break it down in a simple way so you know what to expect after the selection process: Step 1: Provisional Select List (PSL) The Indian Air Force will release a state-wise list called the Provisional Select List. This list will come out on 15 May 2026. It basically tells you if you’re provisionally selected based on your performance and state-wise cut-off marks. But don’t get too comfy yet—it’s not the final step. Step 2: Final Enrolment List From those provisionally selected, the IAF will publish the Final Enrolment List on 1 June 2026. Only candidates who meet all final checks (medical, document verification, age limit, etc.) and rank high enough in merit will get enrolled. Note: Just being in the PSL doesn’t mean guaranteed selection. Final enrolment depends on how many vacancies are available in your state and if you pass all requirements. Bonus: Chance to Join Regular IAF After serving as an Agniveer for 4 years, you may be selected to join the regular Air Force as an Airman. This will be based on your performance, conduct, and overall suitability. But remember, only up to 25% of Agniveers from each batch will be offered this opportunity. Skill Certificate Whether you stay or leave, you’ll receive a Skill Certificate from the Indian Air Force. It highlights the skills and competencies you gained during your service. This will help a lot if

Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun After 10th: Start Early with Cadets Defence Academy

Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun After 10th: Start Early with Cadets Defence Academy

Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun After 10th: Start Early with Cadets Defence Academy Table of Contents Starting your NDA journey right after 10th class? That’s a smart move—and if you’re serious about it, choosing the best NDA coaching in Dehradun after 10th becomes your first real mission. At Cadets Defence Academy, we help you start early, stay focused, and get ahead in the competition with a full-fledged foundation program. Why Begin NDA Preparation Just After 10th? A lot of students wait until 12th boards are over—but why wait, really? Starting after 10th gives you more time to cover the NDA syllabus thoroughly. You can build both academic understanding and physical stamina side by side. It gives you a clear direction when others are still figuring things out. Plus, the confidence you build in two years of focused preperation? It’s unmatched. And that’s exactly what we offer at Cadets Defence Academy—NDA Foundation Course that not only helps students prepare for the NDA exam but also takes care of their regular schooling. And, if someone’s only looking for coaching without the school part, they can totally go for that too Why Dehradun is a Perfect City for NDA Aspirants? Dehradun is not just any city—it’s known for its army schools, disciplined lifestyle, and natural surroundings. The presence of defence institutions like IMA makes the environment serious yet motivating. Fresh air, open grounds, peaceful study atmosphere—it’s got everything a cadet needs. That’s why when parents search for the best NDA coaching in Dehradun after 10th, they find Cadets Defence Academy leading the way. Why Cadets Defence Academy is the Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun After 10th Now let’s talk about what really makes us different. NDA Foundation Course We’ve created a strong NDA foundation course for students after 10th. It blends your school academics with NDA syllabus, so you don’t have to compromise one for the other. Experienced Teaching Faculty Our teachers are experts in NDA subjects like Mathematics, English, and General Studies. Plus, we have retired defence personnel to guide you for SSB and physical training. Regular Physical Training Every morning begins with PT. You’ll train like a real cadet—running, strength training, obstacle course—all under supervision. Personality Development & SSB Prep We cover group discussions, interview techniques, psychology rounds, and confidence-building sessions. It’s not just about books—your attitude matters. Fully Residential Program We provide hostel facilities with strict routines, nutritious food, and disciplined daily schedules to help you live like a future officer. Affordable Fee Plans We keep our courses pocket-friendly. With scholarships and easy installment options, you won’t have to worry about high costs. This is why students and parents choose us again and again and we are known as the best NDA coaching in Dehradun after 10th. NDA Foundation Program at a Glance Here’s a quick overview of what’s included in our 2-year foundation course: Academic Subjects: NDA syllabus + CBSE/State Board curriculum Daily PT: Physical fitness training every morning Mock Tests: Weekly academic & physical performance reviews SSB Modules: Interview prep, GTO tasks, psychology sessions Mentorship: 1-to-1 guidance for every student And we make learning fun too, Regular motivation sessions, movie screenings, and field trips are part of the journey. Who Should Join Our NDA Foundation Course? Not every student needs to wait till class 12 to chase their dream. If you already know you want to wear the uniform, then the NDA Foundation Course at Cadets Defence Academy is made exactly for you. Wondering if this is your path? Check below: Just Passed Class 10 and want to start NDA prep early with proper guidance Aiming for NDA but also need to complete school education (we integrate both) Looking for a residential campus that builds habits, discipline, and routine Need expert help in Maths, English, and GS to build a strong academic base Want SSB preparation from day one, not after failing once You’re physically active or want to improve your fitness under real Army-style PT Some students come to us fully clear-headed about NDA. Others come unsure but curious. Either way, by the time they finish, they walk out sharper, stronger, and fully prepared. And that’s exactly what you get when you join the best NDA coaching in Dehradun after 10th—right here at Cadets Defence Academy. Parent Support & Communication At Cadets Defence Academy, we believe parents are part of the journey too—not just silent spectators. Preparing for NDA after 10th is a big step, and we make sure parents are always in the loop. Here’s how we keep you connected: Weekly Performance Updates – Every student’s academic and physical progress is shared with parents via phone or email. Open Communication Line – Got concerns? Our team is available 24×7 for any urgent needs or emotional support for both students and parents. Periodic Campus Visits – Parents are welcome to visit the academy and interact with staff, inspect facilities, or just catch up with their child. Career Counselling for Parents – Confused about the NDA process or alternate options? We hold special sessions to guide you too. We know how important peace of mind is, especially when your child is away from home. That’s why we stay connected—not just as an academy, but like extended family, for us our students success is our success that’s why we are the best NDA coaching in Dehradun after 10th. Admission Process – Simple & Straightforward You can apply right after completing your 10th. Here’s how: Visit our campus and fill out the application form or fill online registration form. Submit your 10th mark sheet and other required documents. Appear for our entrance test. Once selected, book your seat and hostel space. We welcome both boys and girls, and provide full guidance from day one. Final Words – Your Journey Starts Here If you’re serious about joining the defence forces and want to start strong, there’s no better time than after 10th and no better place than Cadets Defence Academy. We’ll shape your academics, boost your confidence, and make sure you stay on the

How to Overcome the Most Common Challenges in NDA Preparation: Tips for Aspirants

How to Overcome the Most Common Challenges in NDA Preparation: Tips for Aspirants

How to Overcome the Most Common Challenges in NDA Preparation: Tips for Aspirants Table of Contents If you’re reading this, you probably have a dream that thousands share – to wear the uniform, serve the country, and make it through the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA). But hey, let’s be honest, NDA preparation isn’t exactly a walk in the park. And figuring out how to overcome the most common challenges in NDA preparation? That’s even trickier. But you’re not alone in this. Almost every aspirant hits some bumps along the road. Some trip over maths, others get stuck in the web of GK, and for many, the SSB interview feels like an alien world. This blog is here to break those barriers and offer practical, real-world advice to push you through. Cracking the NDA Exam Starts With Knowing it First Before diving into how to overcome the most common challenges in NDA preparation, let’s quickly glance at the structure: Written Test: Two papers – Maths (300 marks) and GAT (600 marks). Time duration: 2.5 hours each. SSB Interview: A 5-day process that tests your personality, psychology, group behavior, and officer-like qualities (OLQs). Pretty intense, right? But totally doable. Click here to get detailed NDA syllabus 2025 pdf Common Struggles That NDA Aspirants Face Now, let’s talk about the big, scary roadblocks most of us stumble upon. 1. Time Management This one’s at the top for a reason, Whether you’re still in school or juggling coaching with college, time slips away fast. You sit down to study, and boom, it’s dinner time. Here’s how to tackle it: Break your day into slots: Morning for theory, afternoon for practice, evening for revision. Use simple planners or apps like Google Calendar. Do Pomodoro: 25 minutes study + 5 mins break. And no, scrolling Instagram in the break doesn’t count. 2. Maths Some topics, especially trigonometry, calculus, and matrices, feel like they were invented to haunt students. But remember, NDA maths isn’t about solving IIT-level puzzles. It’s about clarity. How to beat it: Go back to your NCERTs. They’re gold. Stick to topic-wise practice. Daily 10 questions – even on weekends. Even if you’re slow at first, it builds confidence. 3. GK Feels Like an Ocean General Knowledge isn’t just about memorizing facts; it’s staying aware, reading between the lines. The problem? It changes. Every. Single. Day. So, what works? Read one quality newspaper daily (The Hindu, Indian Express). Monthly current affairs magazines ( Lucent’s). Watch defence-related YouTube channels. But pick wisely. Like ours – we regularly share tips, exam updates, and marathon sessions to help students prepare for the exam. Check it out here. 4. English Ain’t Easy for Everyone We all have that one friend who speaks English like it’s their first language. And it makes you feel how is this possible. Here’s how you can do that too Improve vocabulary with apps (like Magoosh or Vocab24). Read editorials, underline words, use them. Watch English news or movies with subtitles. You’ll notice results in a few weeks. And yes, write one essay a week. Even if it sucks. 5. The Dreaded SSB Interview Here’s the thing. Most students fear the unknown. And SSB, well, is a world of its own. Group tasks, interviews, psych tests…Feels intimidating, right? But it’s more about personality than perfection. Tackle it like this: Watch mock interviews online. Practice Picture Perception & Discussion Test (PPDT) with friends. Join a group or coaching that does regular SSB drills. Still wondering how to overcome the most common challenges in NDA preparation? Well, acing SSB is half about exposure and half about mindset. 6. Relying Only on Coaching This one’s real. Many aspirants think paying big money to a famous coaching center will automatically ensure success. Spoiler: It won’t. No matter how great the faculty is, if you’re not revising or practicing on your own, it won’t stick. You need to practice/revise alone too. What Can You Do Differently? Build a Smart Study Plan Not just long hours, but smart hours. Your daily routine should look something like: 2 hours: Maths practice 1.5 hours: GAT theory (History, Polity, Science) 1 hour: English 30 mins: GK/Current Affairs 1 hour: SSB drills or personality building That’s just an idea. Modify it for your needs. Use Good Resources Books to trust: Pathfinder NDA/NA by Arihant NCERTs (6–12) for basics Manorama Yearbook (for detailed current info) Lucent’s GK (for quick review) Mix online and offline resources. Test your limits. Practice Mock Tests Don’t just study. Simulate. Weekly full-length mock tests. Review your weak areas. Time yourself. Mock tests are the mirror. They tell you where you truly stand. Preparing for the SSB Interview (It’s not as scary as it sounds) Understand each stage: Day 1: Screening (PPDT + Intelligence Test) Day 2: Psychological Tests Day 3 & 4: GTO Tasks Day 5: Personal Interview What helps? Confidence (not overconfidence). Clear thoughts. Awareness of your strengths and flaws. Still confused how to overcome the most common challenges in NDA preparation? You need the right mentor. Need Help with NDA Preperation? Join Cadets Defence Academy – the Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun. We provide you: Regular test series Personal mentorship SSB interview training Current affairs updates & doubt-solving sessions You get not just teachers, but guides who’ve been through it all. Reach Out Us Today. Don’t Lose Motivation There will be days when nothing makes sense. You’ll doubt your dream. Take a break. Not from your dream, but from the pressure. Read stories of NDA toppers. Imagine the Passing Out Parade. Picture your uniform. Remember, every struggle today is shaping the officer in you tomorrow. Conclusion You now know how to overcome the most common challenges in NDA preparation. From fixing your timetable to staying updated with current affairs, and from working on your weak subjects to facing the SSB head-on – it’s all doable. But here’s the thing. Don’t just read this and move on. Pick one problem you’re facing, start with that. Take baby steps.

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