The NDA (National Defence Academy) exam is one in all India’s most prestigious aggressive exams, conducted through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Every year, lakhs of applicants take this exam with the dream of joining the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. However, earlier than filling out the utility form, understanding the NDA exam age restriction is crucial, as candidates no longer meet the age standards and are disqualified.
In this article, we are able to smash down the whole information regarding the NDA exam age limit, consisting of minimum and maximum age criteria, rest rules (if any), and suggestions on determining eligibility primarily based on date of beginning. This manual is in particular useful for applicants making plans to apply for NDA I and NDA II in 2025.
Table of Contents
What Is the NDA Exam?
The NDA examination is performed two times a 12 months — NDA I (commonly in April) and NDA II (commonly in September). It’s an entry factor into the defense force for college students who’ve finished or are approximately to complete their 12th well known (10+2). Once decided on, applicants go through rigorous training at the NDA, Khadakwasla (Pune), earlier than transferring to respective provider academies for pre-fee education.
NDA Exam 2025 Schedule Overview
Exam | Notification Release | Last Date to Apply | Exam Date |
---|---|---|---|
NDA I 2025 | December 2024 | January 2025 | April 2025 |
NDA II 2025 | May 2025 | June 2025 | September 2025 |
NDA Exam Age Limit 2025: Key Highlights
One of the most crucial eligibility parameters is the NDA examination age restriction. The age standards make certain that applicants fall within a particular age bracket to be physically and mentally able to present the process of NDA training.
NDA I 2025 Age Limit
For NDA I 2025, applicants have to have beginning dates among 2d July 2006 and 1st July 2009 (both dates inclusive).
NDA II 2025 Age Limit
For NDA II 2025, candidates have to have start dates between second January 2007 and 1st January 2010 (both dates inclusive).
NDA Exam Age Limit – Summary Table

NDA Exam | Date of Birth Range (Both Inclusive) | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
---|---|---|---|
NDA I 2025 | 2nd July 2006 to 1st July 2009 | 16.5 years | 19.5 years |
NDA II 2025 | 2nd January 2007 to 1st January 2010 | 16.5 years | 19.5 years |
Note: There is no age relaxation for any class including SC/ST/OBC for NDA as in keeping with UPSC norms.
How to Calculate NDA Exam Age Limit?
To decide in case you’re eligible for the NDA exam primarily based on age, observe those steps:
- Check your date of birth on your 10th or twelfth certificate.
- Compare it with the authentic date range mentioned in the UPSC notification for NDA I or NDA II.
- Your age at the date of becoming a member of NDA must be between sixteen.5 years and 19.5 years.
For instance, in case you are born on 15th June 2007, you are eligible for NDA I 2025 but not for NDA II 2025.
Why Is NDA Exam Age Limit Important?
The nda examination age restrict guarantees that applicants are physically trainable and might bear the demanding situations of army schooling. Joining the NDA at a younger age additionally enables inculcate discipline and commitment early in lifestyles.
Violating age criteria can result in cancellation of candidature, even after passing the written test or SSB interview. That’s why it is crucial to verify your age eligibility first earlier than intending with the application.
NDA Exam Age Limit for Girls
Since 2021, female candidates are also eligible to apply for the NDA examination. However, the nda exam age restriction for women is precisely the same as for male applicants. There is not any separate relaxation or unique quota in terms of age.
Girls applying for NDA must be:
- Unmarried
- Between sixteen.5 and 19.5 years of age
- Medically and physically in shape as in step with militia requirements
NDA Eligibility Criteria Apart from Age Limit
Besides the nda exam age limit, candidates must meet the subsequent eligibility requirements:
Educational Qualification
- For Army Wing: Passed or appearing in twelfth preferred (any movement).
- For Air Force & Navy: Passed or acting in 12th fashion with Physics and Mathematics.
Physical Standards
- Must be medically in shape as per army norms.
- No history of intellectual illness, orthopedic incapacity, or chronic illnesses.
Marital Status
- Candidates should be unmarried at some point of the selection and training period.
Can You Appear for NDA Exam More Than Once?
Yes! There is no restriction on the variety of attempts, provided you fulfill the nda exam age restriction and different eligibility situations every time you apply. So, theoretically, you may appear in the NDA exam up to 4–five times, depending on your age and academic timeline.
FAQs on NDA Exam Age Limit
What is the maximum age limit for NDA?
he maximum age is 19.5 years. Candidates older than this are not eligible.
Is there any age relaxation for SC/ST/OBC in NDA?
No, there is no age relaxation for any reserved category in the NDA exam.
Can a 12th appearing student apply for NDA?
Yes, if you meet the nda exam age limit and educational criteria, you can apply while appearing for 12th.
Are girls eligible for NDA?
Yes, girls can apply, and they must also meet the same nda exam age limit as male candidates.
Final Words: Importance of Meeting the NDA Exam Age Limit
The nda examination age restriction performs a crucial position in deciding your eligibility to apply for one of the hardest and most honorable checks within the united states of america. Whether you are aiming for NDA I or NDA II, making sure that your age falls within the targeted bracket is the first step closer to your dream of serving inside the Indian Armed Forces.
Always double-check the legitimate UPSC notification to verify your eligibility and avoid disqualification. With the right instruction, age eligibility, and determination, the gates of the NDA can certainly open for you.
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