NDA 2 2026 Notification Out: Complete Details on Vacancies, Eligibility, Important Dates & How to Apply
The wait is over for defence aspirants across India. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the NDA 2 2026 Notification (Examination Notice No. 10/2026-NDA-II) on 20 May 2026. This notification opens the gateway for unmarried male and female candidates to join the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA).
The NDA 2 2026 Notification invites applications for admission to the 158th Course of the National Defence Academy (Army, Navy and Air Force wings) and the 120th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC) under the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme. Both courses are scheduled to commence on 1 July 2027. A total of 394 vacancies have been announced, making this one of the most significant defence entrance opportunities of the year.
This comprehensive guide covers every important fact related to the NDA 2 2026 Notification — vacancy breakup, eligibility criteria, application process, exam pattern, selection procedure, salary structure and key instructions — so that you can prepare and apply with complete clarity.
Key Highlights of NDA 2 2026 Notification
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Examination Notice No. | 10/2026-NDA-II |
| Notification Release Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 394 (370 Male + 24 Female) |
| Courses | 158th NDA Course & 120th INAC |
| Online Application Start | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 11 June 2026 (up to 6:00 PM) – Extended |
| Written Examination Date | 13 September 2026 (Sunday) |
| Course Commencement | 1 July 2027 |
| Application Mode | Online only |
| Official Website | upsconline.nic.in / upsc.gov.in |
Detailed Vacancy Breakup under NDA 2 2026 Notification
The NDA 2 2026 Notification has clearly specified service-wise vacancies. Here is the complete distribution:
| Academy / Service | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| NDA – Army | 198 | 10 | 208 |
| NDA – Navy (Executive Branch) | 37 | 5 | 42 |
| NDA – Air Force (Flying) | 90 | 2 | 92 |
| NDA – Air Force (Ground Duties – Tech) | 16 | 2 | 18 |
| NDA – Air Force (Ground Duties – Non-Tech) | 8 | 2 | 10 |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | 21 | 3 | 24 |
| Grand Total | 370 | 24 | 394 |
These numbers are provisional and may be revised by the Government depending on service requirements.
Eligibility Criteria as per NDA 2 2026 Notification
Candidates must carefully check all conditions mentioned in the NDA 2 2026 Notification before applying.
1. Nationality
A candidate must be unmarried and must be:
- A citizen of India, or
- A subject of Nepal, or
- A person of Indian origin who has migrated from specified countries with the intention of permanently settling in India (subject to eligibility certificate).
2. Age Limit & Marital Status
Only unmarried male and female candidates born not earlier than 1 January 2008 and not later than 1 January 2011 are eligible. Candidates must remain unmarried till the completion of training.
3. Educational Qualification
- Army Wing of NDA: Passed or appearing in Class 12 (10+2 pattern) or equivalent from a recognised board/university (any stream).
- Air Force, Naval Wings of NDA & Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry): Passed or appearing in Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Class 11 students are not eligible. Candidates appearing in Class 12 can apply provisionally but must produce the passing certificate by the stipulated date.
4. Physical & Medical Standards
Candidates must meet the prescribed physical and medical standards laid down by the respective services. Common reasons for rejection include height-weight mismatch, vision issues, flat feet, knock knees, etc. Aspirants are strongly advised to get themselves medically checked in advance.
Application Fee as per NDA 2 2026 Notification
- General / OBC / EWS candidates: ₹100
- SC / ST candidates, Female candidates and Wards of JCOs / NCOs / ORs: Exempted
Payment can be made online through net banking, credit/debit cards or UPI.
How to Apply Online for NDA 2 2026 Notification
- Visit the official UPSC website: https://upsconline.nic.in
- Complete One-Time Registration (OTR) if not already done.
- Click on the link for NDA & NA Examination (II), 2026.
- Fill in personal, educational and communication details carefully.
- Upload scanned photograph and signature as per specifications.
- Select preferred examination centres (subject to availability).
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
Apply early to secure your preferred examination centre, as popular centres fill up quickly.
Selection Process under NDA 2 2026 Notification
The selection process consists of three stages:
- Written Examination (900 marks) – Objective type
- Paper I: Mathematics (300 marks) – 2½ hours
- Paper II: General Ability Test (600 marks) – 2½ hours
- SSB Interview (900 marks) – Intelligence and Personality Test (5 days)
- Medical Examination
Final merit is prepared on the basis of written + SSB marks, subject to medical fitness and vacancies.
Exam Pattern & Syllabus Highlights
Mathematics covers Algebra, Matrices, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry, Differential & Integral Calculus, Vector Algebra, Statistics and Probability.
General Ability Test includes English and General Knowledge (Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography and Current Affairs).
Negative marking of one-third marks is applicable.
Salary and Benefits after Selection
During training at NDA/INA, cadets receive a fixed stipend of ₹56,100 per month (Level 10). Upon successful commissioning as Lieutenant / equivalent, officers are placed in Pay Level 10 (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500) along with Military Service Pay, Dearness Allowance, and other service benefits.
Important Instructions from NDA 2 2026 Notification
- Mere issue of admit card does not confirm final eligibility.
- No change of examination centre is permitted after submission.
- Candidates must remain unmarried throughout training.
- All original documents will be verified only after clearing the written exam and SSB.
- Keep a valid and active email ID and mobile number throughout the process.
Why Choose Indian Defence Institute – Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun
While the NDA 2 2026 Notification opens the door of opportunity, success depends on structured preparation, consistent practice and expert guidance.
Located in the peaceful and education-oriented city of Dehradun, Indian Defence Institute has earned the reputation of being the Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun. With experienced faculty comprising retired defence officers and subject specialists, a disciplined military-like environment, regular full-length mock tests, physical training, and dedicated SSB interview preparation, the institute provides complete support to aspirants.
Whether you need guidance for the written examination or want to develop Officer-Like Qualities for the SSB stage, Indian Defence Institute offers a holistic and result-oriented approach. Many successful candidates from across India have chosen this institute for its focused training, personalised mentoring and proven track record of selections in NDA and other defence entries.
If you are serious about turning the opportunity created by the NDA 2 2026 Notification into a reality, join the Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun – Indian Defence Institute – and take the first confident step towards the uniform.
Stay focused, prepare systematically, and give your best. The path to the National Defence Academy begins with a strong foundation and the right guidance. Jai Hind!
FAQ'S (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the last date to apply for NDA 2 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 11 June 2026 (up to 6:00 PM). Apply early as popular examination centres fill up quickly on a first-come basis.
2. How many vacancies are there in NDA 2 2026?
A total of 394 vacancies (370 Male + 24 Female) have been announced. The largest share is for the Army Wing (208 seats).
3. What is the age limit for NDA 2 2026?
Only unmarried male and female candidates born not earlier than 1 January 2008 and not later than 1 January 2011 are eligible.
4. Can Class 12 appearing students and female candidates apply?
Yes. Class 12 appearing students can apply provisionally (must produce the passing certificate before 1 July 2027). Female candidates are fully eligible with 24 dedicated vacancies and are also exempted from the application fee.
5. What is the educational qualification required for different wings?
- Army Wing: Class 12 pass or appearing (any stream)
- Navy, Air Force & Naval Academy: Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics
6. When is the NDA 2 2026 written exam and what is the selection process?
The written exam will be held on 13 September 2026. Selection consists of Written Exam (900 marks) → SSB Interview (900 marks) → Medical Examination.
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