To apply for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I) 2025, candidates must meet specific requirements regarding nationality, age, education, and physical standards. These criteria ensure that only eligible and qualified individuals can pursue a career in the armed forces. Review the details below to confirm your eligibility before applying.
Eligibility Conditions
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Candidates must be unmarried males or females and meet one of the following criteria: |
| – Citizen of India | |
| – Subject of Nepal | |
| – Person of Indian origin migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, or certain East African countries intending to settle in India permanently. | |
| Note: Categories (ii) and (iii) require a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India. Gorkha subjects of Nepal do not need this certificate. | |
| Age Limit | Born between 2nd July 2006 and 1st July 2009. |
| Marital Status | Must remain unmarried until completion of training. Marriage during or after application will result in disqualification. |
Educational Qualifications
| Wing | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| Army Wing of NDA | Passed Class 12 (10+2 pattern) or equivalent examination from a recognized State Education Board/University. |
| Air Force and Naval Wings of NDA | Passed Class 12 (10+2 pattern) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from a recognized board/university. |
| Indian Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | Same as Air Force and Naval Wings. |
- Candidates appearing for the Class 12 exam in 2025 can also apply. Proof of passing must be submitted by 15th December 2025.
- Candidates in Class 11 are not eligible.
Additional Information
- Age Verification: The date of birth entered in the application must match the one on your Class 10th Matriculation certificate. No changes will be allowed later.
- Communication Details: Candidates should provide accurate contact details (name, exam year, registration ID, email ID, and postal address).
Physical Standards
Candidates must meet the physical fitness requirements as mentioned in the Appendix-IV of the official notification.