How to Prepare for NDA 2025 The UPSC, the Union Public Service Commission, holds the NDA Exam twice yearly. This exam is like a door that opens for individuals who want to join the Indian Navy, Indian Army, or Indian Air Force. It’s a popular way to start a career in the Indian Defence Services, which means candidates will be servicing to protect our country.
If candidates are planning to take the NDA 1 exam on April 13, 2025, there are some simple tips and tricks that they can follow to get ready. These tips will help you prepare better for the test, making it a bit easier for the candidates. So, if becoming part of the Indian Defence Services is the goal, get ready to put in some effort and use these tips to do best in the NDA Exam.
NDA 2025
The NDA Exam, conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is a gateway for aspirants to join the prestigious Indian Defence Services, including the Indian Navy, Indian Army, and Indian Air Force. As candidates gear up for the NDA 1 exam scheduled for April 21, 2024, or the subsequent NDA exams in 2025, it is crucial to follow a focused and structured approach to preparation.
Important Dates for NDA 2025
| Event | NDA (I) 2025 | NDA (II) 2025 (Tentative) |
|---|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | December 11, 2024 | June 2025 |
| Application Start Date | December 11, 2024 | June 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | December 31, 2024 | July 2025 |
| Admit Card Release Date | March 2025 | August 2025 |
| Examination Date | April 13, 2025 | September 2025 |
| Result Announcement Date | May/June 2025 | October/November 2025 |
NDA 2025 Exam Pattern
Before starting the NDA 2025 preparation, candidates are advised to go through the NDA 2025 exam pattern properly. Thus, below is the NDA 2025 Exam Pattern.
Written Examination
| Subject | Maximum Marks | Duration | Number of Questions | Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 300 | 2.5 hours | 120 | +2.5 for correct, -0.83 for wrong |
| General Ability Test (GAT) | 600 | 2.5 hours | 150 | +4 for correct, -1.33 for wrong |
| Total | 900 | 5 hours | 270 | – |
GAT Division
| Part | Marks | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Part A (English) | 200 | Grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, and communication skills |
| Part B (General Knowledge) | 400 | Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, Current Affairs |
SSB Interview
| Stage | Details | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Screening Test: Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) and PPDT | – |
| Stage 2 | Psychological Tests, Group Testing Officer Tasks, Personal Interview, Conference | – |
| Total | Includes all SSB stages | 900 |
Overall Marks
| Section | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|
| Written Examination | 900 |
| SSB Interview | 900 |
| Total | 1800 |
Summary of Marking Scheme
| Section | Marks for Correct Answer | Marks Deducted for Wrong Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | +2.5 | -0.83 |
| GAT | +4 | -1.33 |
General NDA Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Understand the NDA syllabus. |
| Create a study plan with breaks. |
| Focus on the basics of Math, English, and General Knowledge. |
| Use recommended books for preparation. |
| Solve previous year question papers. |
| Take regular practice tests. |
| Manage time effectively. |
| Read newspapers and practice English regularly. |
| Stay updated on current events. |
| Prepare for interviews by building confidence and awareness. |
Mathematics Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Understand basic math concepts. |
| Solve previous years’ question papers. |
| Practice daily with set question targets. |
| Use shortcuts and tricks for time efficiency. |
| Memorize formulas and theorems. |
| Take mock tests for performance analysis. |
English Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Read English books, newspapers, and magazines. |
| Practice grammar exercises regularly. |
| Learn and use new words in sentences daily. |
| Watch English movies and TV shows. |
| Solve mock tests and sample papers. |
Physics Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Master basic concepts. |
| Use reference books and study materials. |
| Solve previous years’ question papers. |
| Focus on key topics like Ohm’s Law and Motion. |
| Take timed mock tests for speed and accuracy. |
Chemistry Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Understand fundamental concepts. |
| Focus on key topics like Atomic Structure. |
| Memorize important formulas and reactions. |
| Revise regularly to keep the basics clear. |
| Practice mock tests for accuracy and time management. |
Biology Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Make notes of definitions and concepts. |
| Practice diagrams and their labeling. |
| Revise regularly to avoid last-minute stress. |
| Work on speed and accuracy in solving questions. |
History Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Understand the syllabus and exam pattern. |
| Read NCERT and reference books. |
| Take notes and create a revision plan. |
| Practice daily mock tests. |
| Focus on significant events, dates, and personalities. |
Geography Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Understand the syllabus and exam pattern. |
| Study fundamental concepts and theories. |
| Make notes of important topics and definitions. |
| Use maps, diagrams, and charts for better understanding. |
| Read recommended textbooks for deeper insights. |
Current Affairs Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Read newspapers and magazines regularly. |
| Follow news channels and online portals for updates. |
| Make notes of important events and figures. |
| Read books for in-depth knowledge. |
| Join relevant groups or forums for discussions. |
SSB Interview Preparation Tips
| Tips |
|---|
| Develop a positive attitude and confidence. |
| Work on verbal and non-verbal communication skills. |
| Stay updated on Armed Forces developments and values. |
| Practice group discussions and public speaking. |
| Focus on physical fitness and mental agility. |
| Be honest, authentic, and respectful during the interview. |
Last-Minute Tips for NDA 2024 Exam
- Go through important topics and solve old question papers to refresh your memory.
- Try a few practice tests to get used to exam conditions. It will boost candidates’ confidence and help them manage time better.
- Keep cool and get a good night’s sleep before the exam for a clear and focused mind.
- Make sure candidates reach the exam centre on time to avoid unnecessary stress. Plan the journey beforehand.
- Don’t start studying new things at the last minute; it might confuse. Stick to what candidates already know.
- Trust that candidates have prepared well. Confidence is essential during the exam.
- Have a light and nutritious meal before the exam to stay energized. Avoid heavy or unfamiliar foods to stay comfortable.
FAQs for Preparing for NDA 2025
Q1. When is the NDA 2025 exam scheduled?
Ans. NDA 1 is expected in April 2025, and NDA 2 in September 2025. Official dates will be announced by UPSC.
Q2. How can candidates register for the NDA 2025 exam?
Ans. Visit the official UPSC website (www.upsc.gov.in), complete the registration, fill out the application form, and pay the required fee.
Q3. What are the subjects covered in the NDA exam?
Ans. The exam includes:
Mathematics
General Ability Test (GAT): English, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Events.
Q4. Why is solving previous years’ question papers important?
Ans. Solving past papers helps candidates:
Understand the exam pattern.
Identify key topics.
Practice time management effectively.
Q5. How should candidates manage their time during the NDA exam?
Ans. Start with familiar questions, allocate time wisely to each section, and avoid spending too much time on difficult questions.
Q6. What is the best way to prepare for Mathematics in the NDA exam?
Ans. Focus on:
Strengthening basic concepts.
Memorizing formulas.
Practicing problem-solving with mock tests and previous years’ papers.
Q7. How can candidates improve their General Knowledge for the NDA exam?
Ans. Read newspapers, stay updated on current events, study NCERT books for history and geography, and practice quizzes regularly.
Q8. Are there any negative markings in the NDA exam?
Ans. Yes, 1/3rd of the marks assigned to a question are deducted for every incorrect answer.
Q9. How can candidates stay fit for the SSB interview?
Ans. Maintain a regular exercise routine, practice running, push-ups, sit-ups, and focus on balanced nutrition.
