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Top Reasons for NDA Medical Examination Rejections

Every year, countless young individuals aspire to join the Indian Armed Forces through the NDA and NA. However, many face rejection during the medical examination due to various physical conditions. This article outlines the five primary reasons for these rejections, including issues like knock-knees, vision impairments, and weight discrepancies. Understanding these factors can help candidates better prepare for their medical assessments and avoid disqualification. Read on to learn more about the critical fitness standards required for a successful career in the armed forces.
By Ambika Singh Aug 20, 2026, 18:10 IST

Understanding NDA Medical Rejections


Reasons for NDA Medical Rejection: Each year, numerous young aspirants aim to join the Indian Armed Forces through the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA). Successfully passing the UPSC NDA/NA written exam and the demanding five-day SSB interview is a significant challenge. Following the SSB, candidates must also complete a medical examination. Unfortunately, many candidates are deemed unfit during this medical assessment due to minor physical issues, despite their extensive preparation.


The armed forces require personnel to function under extremely demanding conditions, leading to stringent fitness standards. Each year, many capable candidates are disqualified simply because they were unaware of their physical limitations or medical conditions beforehand. If you aspire to join the armed forces through the UPSC NDA or NA, here are five key reasons that could lead to rejection.


Five Major Reasons for NDA Rejection
Physical fitness is crucial for a career in the armed forces. Candidates who do not meet the military's fitness criteria are declared unfit.


1. Knock-knees and Flat Feet


These conditions are among the leading causes of rejection during the NDA medical examination.
Knock-knees occur when the knees touch while standing straight, causing issues during running and marching.
Flat feet refer to the absence of a normal arch in the foot, which can negatively impact the legs and spine during long-distance running.


2. Vision Impairments and Eye Conditions


Vision requirements are strict across all branches of the armed forces (Army, Navy, and Air Force).
For the Air Force (Flying Branch), a perfect 6/6 vision is essential; the use of glasses or LASIK surgery is not allowed. Candidates with color blindness, squint, or night blindness are immediately deemed permanently unfit.


3. Weight Issues
The medical board evaluates the candidate's weight-to-height ratio (BMI).
If the weight is more than 10% off from the official chart, the candidate is temporarily declared unfit (Temporary Rejection).
However, candidates are given 42 days for a re-medical examination to rectify their weight.


4. Ear Wax, Excessive Sweating, and DNS
DNS (Deviated Nasal Septum) refers to a crooked nasal bone that can cause breathing issues.
Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating on the palms and soles, making it difficult to hold weapons.
Ear problems, such as perforated eardrums or excessive earwax, can also lead to disqualification, even minor issues like earwax buildup.


5. Tattoos and Skin Conditions
The Army enforces strict regulations regarding tattoos.
Tattoos are prohibited on the inner forearm (from elbow to palm), the back of the hand, and any visible areas of the body.
Additionally, candidates with skin conditions like eczema, vitiligo (white patches), or other serious skin diseases may be rejected.


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