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UPSC Announces NDA and NA-I 2026 Exam Date and Schedule

The UPSC has confirmed that the NDA and NA-I 2026 examinations will take place on April 12, 2026, in two shifts. Candidates can expect to see the admit cards issued shortly before the exam date. This recruitment will fill 394 positions across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with specific allocations for female candidates. For detailed information on the exam schedule and how to access it, read the full article.
By Ambika Singh Jan 12, 2026, 13:19 IST

NDA and NA-I 2026 Examination Date Revealed



The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially set the date for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) examination for 2026. Scheduled for April 12, 2026, the exam will take place in two separate shifts, allowing candidates to prepare accordingly.

Exam Structure and Timings

As per the UPSC announcement, the NDA and NA-I exams will be conducted on the same day, divided into two subjects. The first session will focus on Mathematics, running from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, followed by the General Ability Test from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Both assessments will consist of objective-type questions.


Admit Card Issuance Details

Candidates should note that the admit cards for the NDA and NA-I examination will be available for download shortly before the exam date. It is important to check the official UPSC website regularly, as the commission will not distribute admit cards via postal service.

Recruitment Overview

This recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 394 positions across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Notably, there are designated seats for female candidates, reflecting a growing commitment to enhancing women's roles in the defense sector.


Breakdown of Vacancies

The UPSC has allocated the following posts:



  • 208 positions for the Indian Army, including 10 for women.


  • 42 positions for the Indian Navy, with 5 reserved for women.


  • 92 positions for the Air Force Flying Branch, including 2 for women.


  • 18 positions for Air Force Ground Duty (Technical), with 2 for women.


  • 10 positions for Ground Duty (Non-Technical), including 2 for women.


  • 24 positions under the Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme), with 3 for women.



How to Access the Exam Schedule

To check the exam timetable, candidates can follow these steps:



  1. Visit the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in.


  2. Navigate to the ‘What’s New’ section on the homepage.


  3. Click on the link titled ‘Examination Time Table: National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026’.


  4. The complete exam timetable will be displayed on the screen.


  5. Review and download the timetable as needed.