NDA Exam Pattern 2025: Subject-wise Paper Pattern, Marking Scheme & Time Duration

NDA Exam Pattern 2025: Subject-wise Paper Pattern & Marking Scheme

The NDA (National Defence Academy) exam is one of the most prestigious competitive exams for aspirants aiming to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. To succeed, it's crucial to understand the latest NDA exam pattern. In this blog, we’ll break down the paper structure, subject-wise marks, time duration, and key changes (if any) for NDA 2025.

NDA Exam Pattern 2025 – Overview

The NDA written examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and comprises two papers:

Click here for the complete NDA Syllabus

Paper-Wise Breakdown

1. Mathematics (Paper I)

• Duration: 2.5 hours
  
  

• Total Marks: 300
  
  

• Topics Covered:
  
  

• Algebra
  
  

• Trigonometry
  
  

• Calculus
  
  

• Statistics & Probability
  
  

• Matrices & Determinants
  
  

 Need help mastering maths for NDA? Check our NDA Preparation Tips blog.

2. General Ability Test (GAT) – Paper II

• Total Marks: 600
  
  

• Divided into two parts:
  
  

• English: 200 Marks
  
  

• General Knowledge: 400 Marks
  
  

General Knowledge includes:

• Physics
  
  

• Chemistry
  
  

• Biology
  
  

• History
  
  

• Geography
  
  

• Current Affairs
  
  

 Explore the best resources in our NDA Books guide (Hindi & English).

Marking Scheme

• Negative Marking: Yes (1/3rd of the marks will be deducted for each wrong answer)
  
  

• Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen & Paper)
  
  

• Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
  
  

• Medium: English & Hindi (except for English section)
  
  

Time Management Strategy

With 300 questions and limited time, time management is crucial.
Read our NDA Preparation Tips blog to learn how to balance speed with accuracy.

What After the Written Test?

Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for:

• SSB Interview (900 Marks)
  
  

• Medical Examination
  
  

To crack both stages, join our Best NDA Coaching in India at Sukhoi Academy for full guidance and mock interviews.

Conclusion

Understanding the NDA exam pattern is the first step to strategic preparation. Focus on clarity of concepts, timed practice, and consistent revision. Stay updated with UPSC notifications and changes in pattern, if any.

Want to prepare like a topper? Enroll in our expert-led NDA Coaching programs today!