How Many Attempts for NDA? Eligibility, Age Limits & Expert Tips

How Many Attempts For NDA

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is one of the most prestigious entrance examinations in India for candidates who aspire to join the Indian Armed Forces. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the NDA exam is held twice a year to select eligible candidates for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA and Indian Naval Academy (INA). One of the most common questions among aspirants is, “How many attempts for NDA are allowed?” This blog aims to answer this question and provide a detailed insight into the eligibility criteria, age limit, and other essential aspects of the NDA exam.

How Many Attempts for NDA Exam Are Allowed?

Unlike other competitive exams, the NDA does not have a specific limit on the number of attempts. Instead, the number of times a candidate can appear for the NDA exam is determined by their age eligibility criteria. As per UPSC guidelines, candidates can attempt the NDA exam as long as they meet the prescribed age limit.

Age Limit for NDA Exam

To be eligible for the NDA exam, candidates must meet the following age criteria:

  • The candidate must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years old at the time of commencement of the course.
  • The birth date cut-off is mentioned in the official notification for each NDA exam cycle.
  • There is no relaxation in the age limit for reserved category candidates (SC/ST/OBC/EWS, etc.).

Since the NDA exam is conducted twice a year (NDA-I and NDA-II), a candidate who meets the age criteria can appear for the exam approximately 4 to 5 times, depending on their date of birth.

Eligibility Criteria for NDA Exam

Apart from the age limit, candidates must also meet the following eligibility conditions:

Educational Qualification

  • For Army Wing: Candidates must have passed 10+2 (or equivalent) from a recognized board.
  • For Air Force and Naval Wings: Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics from a recognized board.

Nationality

Candidates must be:

  • A citizen of India
  • A subject of Nepal or Bhutan
  • A Tibetan refugee who arrived in India prior to January 1, 1962, with the goal of relocating there permanently.

Marital Status and Gender

  • Candidates must be unmarried.
  • NDA is open to both male and female applicants.

How to Maximize Your NDA Exam Attempts?

Since the number of attempts is determined by age, here are a few ways to ensure you make the most of your chances:

  1. Start Early Preparation: If you plan to appear for NDA, start preparing while you are in Class 10 or 11 so you can attempt the exam as soon as you qualify.
  2. Attempt the Exam at Every Opportunity: Since the exam is conducted twice a year, make sure to appear for each attempt within the age limit.
  3. Improve with Each Attempt: Even if you don’t clear the first attempt, analyze your performance, identify weak areas, and prepare better for the next.
  4. Follow a Study Plan: A well-structured study plan with proper time management can help improve your chances of success.
  5. Take Mock Tests: Regular practice through mock tests and previous year question papers can help enhance your performance.

The NDA exam does not have a fixed attempt limit; it depends entirely on your age eligibility. Since the exam is conducted twice a year, most candidates get 4 to 5 attempts before crossing the maximum age limit of 19.5 years. To maximize your chances, start early preparation, stay dedicated, and give your best in each attempt.

If you are serious about joining the Indian Armed Forces, make the most of your NDA attempts and work hard to achieve your dream. Keep yourself updated with official UPSC notifications to ensure you don’t miss out on any opportunity.

For more expert guidance, exam strategies, and study materials, visit Indian Defence Institute one of the best NDA coaching in Dehradun and take a step closer to your NDA dream!

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