Union Public Service Commission - NDA and NA 2 Exam 2026 (NDA & NA II Recruitment 2026)

Introduction

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) invites applications for the NDA and NA 2 Examination 2026 to fill vacancies in the Army Wing, Naval Wing, Air Force Wing and the Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme). This national-level entry is ideal for Class 12 pass candidates who aspire to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers. Read this article for a clear overview of vacancies, eligibility, application process, selection stages and important dates.

Overview

Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet the educational, age and nationality criteria set by UPSC for NDA & NA II 2026.

• Age: Candidates must be between 15 and 18 years of age as specified in the official notification. Exact date-of-birth limits will be in UPSC instructions; age relaxation applies as per government rules.
• Educational Qualification: For Army Wing: 10+2 pass (Class 12) or equivalent from a recognised board. For Air Force and Naval Wings and for the 10+2 Naval Academy entry: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics from a recognised board.
• Nationality: Indian citizen, or subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees who came to India before 1962 intending permanent settlement, or persons of Indian origin settled abroad as per UPSC rules.
• Physical Standards: Candidates must meet prescribed physical and medical standards as per service requirements.

Important Dates

• Application Start Date: Not specified in the advertisement — check UPSC website for opening date.
• Last Date to Apply Online: 11 June 2026.
• Exam Date & Other Schedules: Will be announced on UPSC’s official portal and in the detailed notification.

Application Fee

The fee structure for UPSC NDA & NA II 2026 is as follows:

• General / OBC: ₹100 (Payable online or as directed by UPSC).
• SC / ST / Female / Ex-Servicemen: Nil (exempted as per UPSC rules).
• Payment modes generally include net banking, debit/credit cards and UPI; details will be on the application portal.

How to Apply

Apply only through the official UPSC online application portal. Follow these practical steps to complete your application:

• Step 1: Visit the UPSC website (https://upsc.gov.in) or the UPSC online application portal and read the complete notification for NDA & NA II 2026.
• Step 2: Register or login to the UPSC Online Recruitment Portal and choose the NDA & NA II 2026 application link.
• Step 3: Fill in personal, educational and contact details accurately. Keep your class 10 and 12 details ready.
• Step 4: Upload scanned copies of required documents and a recent passport-size photograph and signature as per specifications.
• Step 5: Pay the application fee (if applicable) using the available online payment options or claim exemption if eligible.
• Step 6: Review the completed form, submit, and take a printout of the confirmation page and application for future reference.

Selection Process

Selection for NDA & NA II is multi-stage and merit-based. Stages include:

• Written Examination conducted by UPSC (objective type and syllabus as per notification).
• SSB Interview (Services Selection Board) for intelligence, personality and officer-like qualities — includes psychological tests, group tasks and personal interview.
• Physical and medical examination as per the norms of the Indian Armed Forces.
• Final merit list based on written exam marks and SSB performance subject to medical clearance.

FAQs

• What is the last date for UPSC NDA and NA 2 Exam 2026? — The last date to apply online is 11 June 2026.
• What is the application fee for UPSC? — General candidates pay ₹100; SC/ST and certain categories are exempt.
• What is the age limit for NDA and NA II posts? — 15 to 18 years; exact DOB range will be in the detailed UPSC notification with relaxation rules as applicable.
• How many vacancies are there in UPSC NDA & NA II 2026? — A total of 394 vacancies have been announced.
• What is the selection process for NDA and NA II? — Selection involves a UPSC written exam, SSB interview, physical/medical tests and final merit listing.