NDA 1 Syllabus 2026 & Exam Pattern – Complete Guide for Aspirants
Preparing for NDA 1 2026 requires a clear understanding of the syllabus and exam pattern. This structured guide covers both papers, marking scheme, and selection process to help you plan effectively.
NDA 1 2026 Syllabus Overview
The NDA written exam consists of two papers:
- Paper 1: Mathematics
- Paper 2: General Ability Test (GAT)
NDA Mathematics Syllabus (Paper 1)
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Algebra | Sets, complex numbers, AP, GP, HP, quadratic equations, logarithms, Venn diagrams |
| Matrices & Determinants | Types of matrices, determinants, solving equations using Cramer’s rule |
| Trigonometry | Angles, trigonometric ratios, identities |
| Analytical Geometry | Cartesian system, distance formula, equation of lines |
| Differential Calculus | Functions, domain, range, graphs |
| Integral Calculus & Differential Equations | Integration methods, standard integrals |
| Vector Algebra | Vectors in 2D and 3D, magnitude, direction, cross product |
| Statistics & Probability | Data interpretation, probability concepts |
NDA General Ability Test (Paper 2)
English Section
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Grammar | Error detection, sentence correction |
| Vocabulary | Synonyms, antonyms |
| Comprehension | Reading passages |
| Usage | Sentence formation |
General Knowledge Section
| Subject | Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Motion, force, energy, gravitation |
| Chemistry | Elements, compounds, acids, bases, reactions |
| General Science | Human body, solar system, diseases |
| History | Indian history, world events, revolutions |
| Geography | Climate, resources, Earth structure |
| Current Affairs | National and international events |
NDA 1 2026 Exam Pattern
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper) |
| Duration | 2.5 hours per paper |
| Total Questions | 270 |
| Total Marks | 900 |
Paper-wise Marking Scheme
| Section | Questions | Marks | Marks per Question |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 120 | 300 | 2.5 |
| English (GAT) | 50 | 200 | 4 |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 400 | 4 |
Note: One-third marks are deducted for each incorrect answer.
NDA 1 2026 Selection Process
The selection process includes three stages:
1. Written Examination
- Objective type questions
- Total marks: 900
2. SSB Interview
Conducted over 5 days to assess personality traits such as leadership, communication, and decision-making.
| Day | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Screening Tests (OIR, PPDT) |
| Day 2 | Psychological Tests |
| Day 3 | Group Tasks |
| Day 4 | Interview and Individual Tasks |
| Day 5 | Conference |
3. Medical Examination
- Conducted at designated military hospitals
- Evaluates physical and medical fitness
Final Merit List
The final selection is based on:
- Written Exam (900 marks)
- SSB Interview (900 marks)
Only medically fit candidates are included in the final merit list.
A clear understanding of the NDA 1 2026 syllabus and exam pattern helps in building a focused preparation strategy. Consistent practice, strong fundamentals, and regular revision are essential to perform well in the exam.