The Commission has scheduled the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I), 2026, for the same day. (Express photo/ representational)
UPSC NDA & NA I Exam Schedule 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the schedule for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I), 2026. Aspirants can view the complete schedule on the official UPSC website, upsc.gov.in.
According to the notification, the NDA and NA Examination (I), 2026, is scheduled for April 12, 2026, and will be conducted in two sessions. The mathematics paper will be held in the morning shift from 10 am to 12:30 pm, while the general ability test (GAT) will take place in the afternoon shift from 2 pm to 4:30 pm.
Admit cards will be released on the official UPSC website before the exam, and candidates are advised to carefully review reporting times, instructions, and paper schedules mentioned on the admit card. Entry to the examination centre will be strictly prohibited after the gate closing time, and candidates must arrive at least 30 minutes before the reporting time to avoid any inconvenience.
The NDA and NA written exam comprises two objective-type papers. The mathematics paper is worth 300 marks, while the general ability test carries 600 marks, bringing the total for the written stage to 900 marks. The questions are presented in both English and Hindi.
The CDS written exam consists of three objective-type papers: English, general knowledge, and elementary mathematics, each carrying 100 marks. Applicants for the Officers Training Academy (OTA) are exempted from the mathematics paper. Those who clear the written stage will be invited to appear for the Service Selection Board (SSB) interview.
Additionally, UPSC, in its notice, has informed all the aspirants that those participating in recruitment examinations by the Commission will undergo facial authentication at the examination venues. They stated that this measure would enhance the integrity of the examination process.
Curated by Aisha Patel
