Can I complete NDA Syllabus in two Months?

NDA is a national-level defence exam that is largely participated by the defence aspirants. Therefore, the competition is high for this exam. Candidates requires at least one year to six months for NDA preparation. However, with dedication and right approach, candidates can clear the exam in two months. Candidates must first go through the topics in NDA syllabus first. Attempt NDA previous years' papers and mock tests regularly to improve time management skills.

Is the NDA entrance exam syllabus the same as Class 12?

Yes, the NDA syllabus is the same as class 12. To crack the NDA exam, candidates must have conceptual clarity for better application while handling tricky and simple questions. Candidates must practice previous years' question papers. For Maths candidates must practice from NCERT Class 11 books. Jot down important Mathematical formulas and concepts. For English, candidates must brush up on the concepts of English. Candidates must clear their basic grammar, improve reading comprehension, and build vocabulary to tackle Antonyms and Synonyms.

What is the purpose of the NDA syllabus?

NDA syllabus is prescribed by the examination authority. The syllabus comprises the topics that candidates need to prepare for the exam. The first and foremost step towards preparation is going through the syllabus. Knowing the syllabus helps candidates to plan a strategy to ace the exam, thereby, giving them the right direction for preparation. NDA syllabus has two sections for the written exam, General Ability Test (GAT) and Mathematics. GAT aims to test the candidate's basic knowledge of History, GK, Current Affairs of National and International Events, English, Science, and Geography. On the other hand, the Mathematics paper of NDA comprises questions based on Class 12. The GAT paper holds the maximum weightage in the syllabus.

How much time is required for NDA Exam Preparation?

The ideal time required for NDA preparation is one year to six months. During the preparation phase, candidates must focus on all subjects and topics relevant to the exam. Candidates must consider solving the NDA question papers. They should also attempt mock tests to increase speed and accuracy. Candidates must be thorough with the exam pattern and syllabus. The tips and tricks to prepare for NDA exam are given below: To begin with the preparation, candidates need to understand the syllabus and exam pattern Candidates can clear their basic concepts of the topics from the Class 10, 11 and 12 books To improve speed and accuracy, candidates can attempt mock tests After completing the syllabus, candidates must practice previous years' question papers to know the types of questions asked in the exam Candidates must work on improving their weak areas

How to prepare for NDA exam in three months?

With just three months left for NDA exam, candidates must pull up their socks and start preparing for the exam dedicatedly. The competition for this exam is high and without a good preparation, it is not possible to crack it. Candidates must prepare a proper study plan and follow it diligently. Besides, candidates must solve previous years’ question papers and mock tests to get themselves familiar with the actual test and find out the strong and weak areas. Also Read: How to prepare for NDA 2023 in 3 months?

How to prepare for NDA exam after 12th?

NDA syllabus mostly comprises the topics/subjects that candidates have studied in Class 12. The preparation for Class 12 and NDA can go hand-in-hand. Some of the preparation tips or NDA exam after 12th are given below: Candidates must go through the complete subject-wise syllabus Create a proper study plan and dedicate time for each subject Be consistent with the study plan Refer to good NDA books Candidates must review the fundamentals of each subject. They should consult the books from Classes 6 to 12 Candidates must read the newspaper daily to enhance their English. Additionally, candidates must practice grammar and learn new words Candidates must practice the previous years' question papers to get an idea about the exam structure

How can I prepare for NDA exam?

Every year thousands of candidates appear for NDA exam. With so much competition, candidates need to have a proper preparation strategy for the exam. Candidates need to be consistent with their study plans. They should devote few hours every day to study. Candidates need to be thorough with the syllabus. Candidates must revise their notes and important formulae every day. Candidates must practise mock tests and previous years' question papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and syllabus. Candidates must clear their basic concepts of each and every topic given in the syllabus. This will help candidates to solve the questions easily in the exam.

What is NDA selection process?

NDA selection process comprises written exam and SSB interview. Candidates need to secure qualifying marks separately in the written exam and SSB interview. Qualified candidates will be placed in a single combined list on the basis of total marks secure in the written exam and SSB interview. Final allocation is done based on the number of vacancies, eligibility, medical fitness and merit-cum-preference of the candidates. The written exam of NDA is conducted for 900 marks. The sectional cutoff marks for the written exam is 25 per cent. The SSB interview carries 900 marks. The SSB interview is conducted in two stages. Stage 1 comprises Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception and Description Test (PP&DT) whereas Stage 2 comprises Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests, and the Conference.

What is NDA selection process for SSB interview?

The SSB procedure consists of two stage Selection process- stage I and stage II. Only those candidates who clear the stage I are permitted to appear for stage II. The details are: (a) Stage I comprises of Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests are Picture Perception Description Test (PP&DT). The candidates will be shortlisted based on combination of performance in OIR Test and PP&DT (b) Stage II Comprises of Interview, Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests and the Conference. These tests are conducted over four days. The personality of a candidate is assessed by three different assessors viz. The Interviewing Officer (IO), Group Testing Officer (GTO) and the Psychologist. There are no separate weightage for each test. The mks are allotted by assessors only after taking into consideration the performance of the candidate holistically in all the test. In addition, marks for Conference are also allotted based on the initial performance of the Candidate in the three techniques and decision of the Board. All these have equal weightage. The various tests of IO, GTO and Psych are designed to bring out the presence/absence of Officer Like Qualities and their trainability in a candidate. Accordingly candidates are recommended or not recommended at the SSB.

How are NDA question papers useful?

NDA question papers help candidates to know the types of questions asked in the exam as well the difficulty level of the questions. The question papers also give candidates an idea regarding the pattern of the exam, topic-wise distribution of questions, topics that are given maximum weightage, etc. Candidates can use NDA question papers to improve their speed and accuracy of solving questions.

What is NDA selection process for written exam?

NDA selection process for written exam comprises two papers-Maths and GAT. Total marks allotted to this paper are 900. Candidates need to secure 25 per cent in each subject as qualifying marks. Besides, candidates need to clear the cut off marks fixed by UPSC for written exam. Based on the performance in the written exam, candidates are selected for SSB interview.

How to prepare for NDA exam after 12th?

NDA syllabus mostly comprises the topics/subjects that candidates have studied in Class 12. The preparation for Class 12 and NDA can go hand-in-hand. Some of the preparation tips or NDA exam after 12th are given below: Candidates must go through the complete subject-wise syllabus Create a proper study plan and dedicate time for each subject Be consistent with the study plan Refer to good NDA books Candidates must review the fundamentals of each subject. They should consult the books from Classes 6 to 12 Candidates must read the newspaper daily to enhance their English. Additionally, candidates must practice grammar and learn new words Candidates must practice the previous years' question papers to get an idea about the exam structure

What is psychological test in NDA SSB interview?

The pyschological tests in NDA SSB interview comprises the following: Thematic Apperception Test: This is similar to the picture test and is hard and intense. Word Association Test: This is similar to a picture test, but the pictures are replaced by words Situation Reaction Test: In this test, candidates will be presented with some situations and then you have to write about your responses to these situations. Self Description Test: In this test, candidates have to talk about themselves, personal life, etc.

Which are the important topics for NDA exam?

NDA syllabus comprises two papers-GAT and Maths. In GAT, candidates need to prepare well especially the General Awareness section as it is vast and includes physics, chemistry, general science, history, geography and current events. Candidates can check below the suggested subjects. NDA Syllabus for English List of Synonyms and Antonyms List of One Word Substitutions List of Homophones/Homonyms NDA Syllabus for Current Affairs For the current events category, students must be read news related to sports, economics, politics, national and international events. General Science Common Epidemics, their causes and prevention Difference between the living and nonliving Food—Source of Energy for man Basis of Life—Cells, Protoplasms and Tissues Constituents of food Growth and Reproduction in Plants and Animals Balanced Diet Elementary knowledge of Human Body and its important organs Geography The Earth, its shape and size Ocean Currents and Tides Atmosphere and its composition Latitudes and Longitudes Temperature and Atmospheric Pressure, Planetary Winds, Cyclones and Anticyclones; Humidity; Condensation and Precipitation Concept of time Types of Climate International Date Line Major Natural Regions of the World Movements of Earth and their effects Regional Geography of India Climate, Natural vegetation. Mineral and Power resources; Location and distribution of agricultural and Industrial activities Origin of Earth. Rocks and their classification Important Sea ports and main sea, land and air routes of India Weathering—Mechanical and Chemical, Earthquakes and Volcanoes Main items of Imports and Exports of India History Forces shaping the modern world; Renaissance Exploration and Discovery; A broad survey of Indian History, with emphasis on Culture and Civilisation Freedom Movement in India French Revolution, Industrial Revolution and Russian Revolution War of American Independence, Impact of Science and Technology on Society Elementary study of Indian Constitution and Administration Concept of one World Elementary knowledge of Five Year Plans of India United Nations, Panchsheel, Panchayati Raj, Democracy, Socialism and Communism Role of India in the present world Co-operatives and Community Development Bhoodan, Sarvodaya, National Integration and Welfare State Basic Teachings of Mahatma Gandhi Chemistry Physical and Chemical Changes Acids, bases and salts Preparation and Properties of Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide, Oxidation and Reduction Elementary ideas about the structure of Atom Symbols, Formulae and simple Chemical Equations Atomic Equivalent and Molecular Weights Mixtures and Compounds Law of Chemical Combination (excluding problems) Properties of Air and Water Valency Material used in the preparation of substances like Soap, Glass, Ink, Paper, Cement, Paints, Safety Matches and Gunpowder Fertilizers — Natural and Artificial Elements Physics Static and Current Electricity Newton’s Laws of Motion Earth as a Magnet Force and Momentum Spherical mirrors and Lenses Pressure Barometer Human Eye Reflection and refraction Principle of Archimedes Physical Properties and States of Matter Modes of transference of Heat Mass, Weight, Volume, Sound waves and their properties Simple musical instruments Rectilinear propagation of Light Density and Specific Gravity Parallelogram of Forces Conductors and Non-conductors Stability and Equilibrium of bodies Ohm’s Law Gravitation Simple Electrical Circuits Elementary ideas of work Motion of objects Natural and Artificial Magnets Velocity and Acceleration Properties of a Magnet Heating, Lighting and Magnetic effects of Current Power and Energy Measurement of Electrical Power Effects of Heat Primary and Secondary Cells Measurement of Temperature and Heat Use of X-Rays General Principles in the working of Simple Pendulum, Simple Pulleys, Siphon, Levers, Balloon, Pumps, Hydrometer, Pressure Cooker, Thermos Flask, Gramophone, Telegraphs, Telephone, Periscope, Telescope, Microscope, Mariner’s Compass; Lightning Conductors, Safety Fuses NDA Maths Syllabus Algebra Calculus Matrices and Determinants Integral Calculus and Differential Equations Trigonometry Vector Algebra Analytical Geometry of Two and Three Dimension Statistics and Probability

Which are the tests included in Group Testing Officers Test (GTO) in NDA SSB Interview?

The GTO test also has multiple steps and they are: Group Discussion. Group Planning. Progressive Group Task. Half Group Task. Individual Obstacles Task. Command Task. Snake Race. Individual Lecture. Final Group Task.

What is NDA exam pattern?

The written exam of NDA comprises two papers-Mathematics and General Ability Tests (GAT). The Maths paper carries 120 questions and the GAT carries 150 questions. Total marks allotted to the written exam are 900. Candidates qualifying the written exam are called for SSB interview. SSB Interview is divided into two stages. Candidates qualifying the Stage 1 are called for the Stage 2 exam. Stage 1 of the SSB Interview comprises Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception and Description Test (PP&DT). Stage 2 comprises Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests, and the Conference

Which topics to cover for NDA Biology?

For the Biology section of NDA candidates should cover Common Epidemics, their causes and prevention, Difference between the living and non-living Food-Source of Energy for man, Basis of Life-Cells, Protoplasms and Tissues, Constituents of food, Growth, and Reproduction in Plants and Animals, Balanced Diet, Elementary knowledge of Human Body and its important organs, The Solar System-Meteors and Comets, Eclipses. Achievements of Eminent Scientists, etc. The tips and tricks to prepare the Biology section of NDA exam are given below: Candidates need to understand the syllabus. They should figure out the important topics for the exam and prepare them accordingly Candidates must prepare from the standard NCERT books. They can refer to the Classes 8, 9 and 10 NCERT books Candidates must make notes while studying the chapters. Making notes will help in quick revision Candidates must practice previous years' question papers to understand the types of questions asked in the exam Candidates must regularly revise the topic-wise notes prepared for the exam

Which topics to cover for the History part of NDA?

Candidates for this part can refer to forces shaping the modern world, freedom movement in India, Indian Constitution and Administration, Panchayat Raj, Democracy, Socialism and Communism, etc. The tips and tricks to prepare the History section of NDA are given below: Before starting the preparation, candidates must understand the exam pattern of NDA. This will help candidates to focus on the important topics and allot time accordingly Candidates must check the syllabus of NDA for History and make a list of all the topics that are covered. This will help candidates to priortise their preparation Candidates must start revising the NCERT books of Classes 6 to 12 for History Candidates must refer to good books like India's Struggle for Independence by Bipin Chandra for history Candidates should practice the previous year question papers to understand the type of questions asked in the exam and identify their strong and weak areas

Which topics to cover for NDA Physics part?

For the NDA Physics part, candidates can cover Physical Properties and States of Matter Motion of Objects, Mass, Weight, Volume, Sound Waves and their Properties, Newton's Laws of Motion of objects, Power and Energy, etc. The tips and tricks to crack the Physics section are given below: Focus on Important Topics: The Physics syllabus for the exam is very extensive and carries too many topics. Candidates must focus on topics that have the maximum weightage in the exam such as Ohm's Law, Mass, Force, and Momentum. Take a Note of Things: Candidates should focus on important definitions and formula. They should go through these notes everyday as it helps in revision Identify Your Strengths: Candidates must identify their strengths and the most important aspect of Physics is that it is not limited to sums. If candidates find the Physics sums to be tough, they should strengthen their theoretical portion Candidates should list down all the formula and solve at least 8 to 10 sums for each formula

What is the NDA syllabus for English?

For the English section of NDA exam, candidates can go through Grammar and Usage, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion. To ace this section, candidates must be thorough with the rules of grammar. Candidates must read the newspapers to improve their grammar and vocabulary. The English section carries 200 marks. This section of the paper judge their understanding of the English Language, Grammar and Comprehension. Being proficient in the language, and having rich vocabulary boost NDA preparation for English. Here are the tips and tricks to crack NDA English section: Cover the syllabus: The first requirement is to cover the entire syllabus that include topics such as grammar and usage, comprehension, synonyms & antonyms, fill in the blanks, spot the error, para jumbles, etc. Read Thoroughly: The best way to prepare for English Language is to read extensively. Candidates must read wide range of books, newspapers, novels, etc. Candidates must jot down new words and search for their meaning

What is NDA Maths syllabus?

NDA Maths syllabus covers the topics from higher secondary Mathematics on Trigonometry Algebra Differential Calculus, 2D and 3D Geometry, Matrix and Determinants etc. A total of 120 questions are asked in the Maths section and carry 300 marks. Candidates must clear their basics from Class 10, 11 and 12 Maths books. NDA syllabus for Maths is given below: Algebra: Sets, Venn diagrams, De Morgan laws, Cartesian product, relation, equivalence relation. Real numbers, Complex numbers, Modulus, Cube roots, Conversion of a number in Binary system to Decimals and vice-versa. Arithmetic, Geometric and Harmonic progressions. Quadratic equations, Linear inequations, Permutation and Combination, Binomial theorem and Logarithms. Calculus: Concept of a real valued function, domain, range and graph of a function. Composite functions, one to one, onto and inverse functions. Notion of limit, Standard limits, Continuity of functions, algebraic operations on continuous functions. Derivative of function at a point, geometrical and physical interpretation of a derivative-application. Derivatives of sum, product and quotient of functions, derivative of a function with respect to another function, derivative of a composite function. Second order derivatives. Increasing and decreasing functions. Application of derivatives in problems of maxima and minima Matrices and Determinants: Types of matrices, operations on matrices. Determinant of a matrix, basic properties of determinants. Adjoint and inverse of a square matrix, Applications-Solution of a system of linear equations in two or three unknowns by Cramer’s rule and by Matrix Method. Integral Calculus and Differential Equations: Integration as inverse of differentiation, integration by substitution and by parts, standard integrals involving algebraic expressions, trigonometric, exponential and hyperbolic functions. Evaluation of definite integrals—determination of areas of plane regions bounded by curves-applications. Definition of order and degree of a differential equation, formation of a differential equation by examples. General and particular solution of differential equations, solution of first order and first-degree differential equations of various types—examples. Application in problems of growth and decay. Trigonometry: Angles and their measures in degrees and in radians. Trigonometric ratios. Trigonometric identities Sum and difference formulae. Multiple and Sub-multiple angles. Inverse trigonometric functions. Applications-Height and distance, properties of triangles. Vector Algebra: Vectors in two and three dimensions, magnitude, and direction of a vector. Unit and null vectors, the addition of vectors, scalar multiplication of a vector, scalar product, or dot product of two vectors. Vector product or cross product of two vectors. Applications—work done by a force and moment of a force and in geometrical problems. Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension: Rectangular Cartesian Coordinate system, Distance formula, Equation of a line in various forms. The angle between two lines. Distance of a point from a line. Equation of a circle in standard and in a general form. Standard forms of parabola, ellipse, and hyperbola. Eccentricity and axis of a conic. Point in a three-dimensional space, the distance between two points. Direction Cosines and direction ratios. Equation two points. Direction Cosines and direction ratios. Equation of a plane and a line in various forms. Angle between two lines and angle between two planes. Equation of a sphere. Statistics and Probability: Probability: Random experiment, outcomes, and associated sample space, events, mutually exclusive and exhaustive events, impossible and certain events. Union and Intersection of events. Complementary, elementary, and composite events. Definition of probability—classical and statistical—examples. Elementary theorems on probability-simple problems. Conditional probability, Bayes’ theorem—simple problems. Random variable as function on a sample space. Binomial distribution, examples of random experiments giving rise to Binomial distribution.

Which are the important topics for Calculus in NDA?

The calculus chapter of NDA comprises topics such as Concept of a real valued function, domain, range and graph of a function. Composite functions, one to one, onto and inverse functions. Notion of limit, Standard limits, Continuity of functions, algebraic operations on continuous functions. Derivative of function at a point, geometrical and physical interpretation of a derivative-application. Derivatives of sum, product and quotient of functions, derivative of a function with respect to another function, derivative of a composite function. Second order derivatives. Increasing and decreasing functions. Application of derivatives in problems of maxima and minimal.

Which are the important topics for the Probability chapter in NDA Maths paper?

The important topics for the Probability chapter in NDA Maths paper are Probability: Random experiment, outcomes, and associated sample space, events, mutually exclusive and exhaustive events, impossible and certain events. Union and Intersection of events. Complementary, elementary, and composite events. Definition of probability—classical and statistical—examples. Elementary theorems on probability-simple problems. Conditional probability, Bayes’ theorem—simple problems. Random variable as function on a sample space. Binomial distribution, examples of random experiments giving rise to Binomial distribution.

Which are the important topics for Vector Alegbra in NDA?

The important topics for NDA Vector Algebra are Sets Venn diagrams, De Morgan laws, Cartesian product, relation, equivalence relation. Real numbers, Complex numbers, Modulus, Cube roots, Conversion of a number in Binary system to Decimals and vice-versa. Arithmetic, Geometric and Harmonic progressions. Quadratic equations, Linear inequations, Permutation and Combination, Binomial theorem and Logarithms.

What are the passing marks in NDA?

Candidates are required to score a minimum of around 25 per cent marks in each subject to clear the NDA written exam. The total marks allotted to the written exam are 900. Besides the subject-wise cut off marks, the examination authority also decides overall cut off marks for different defence services. Candidates are required to secure both section-wise and overall cut off marks. To be in the final merit list, candidates are required to secure separate qualifying marks in the written exam and SSB interview.

What does 25% marks mean in each subject in the NDA?

In the National Defence Academy NDA 25% marks in each subject means that the candidates need to secure this percentage in a particular subject. It is important to note that the exact passing marks may vary depending on certain factors. Besides the qualifying marks, candidates are also required to secure the cut off marks fixed by the examination authority for the written exam and final selection.

What is NDA marking scheme?

NDA marking scheme is prescribed by UPSC. The marking scheme highlights the marks awarded for correct answers and marks deducted for wrong answers. In Maths 2.5 marks are awarded for correct answers and 0.83 marks are deducted for wrong answers. In GAT four marks are awarded for correct answers and 1.33 marks are deducted for the wrong answers. The score of the written exam is calculated out of 900 marks. The examination authority calculates the scores of candidates based on the marking scheme. The structure of NDA marking scheme is given below. Sections Marks for correct answer NDA Negative Marking GAT 4 1.33 Mathematics 2.5 0.83

What is NDA exam pattern?

The written exam of NDA comprises two papers-Mathematics and General Ability Tests (GAT). The Maths paper carries 120 questions and the GAT carries 150 questions. Total marks allotted to the written exam are 900. Candidates qualifying the written exam are called for SSB interview. SSB Interview is divided into two stages. Candidates qualifying the Stage 1 are called for the Stage 2 exam. Stage 1 of the SSB Interview comprises Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception and Description Test (PP&DT). Stage 2 comprises Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests, and the Conference

Which is the best book for NDA Preparation?

NDA is a competitive exam therefore to crack it candidates need to choose the right type of books. NDA books help candidates to ace the exam easily and clear the concepts of each and every topic given in the syllabus. To pass the exam, it is essential to select the right set of NDA books. The standard of the NDA syllabus is for Class 10, 11, and 12 levels. The best books for NDA exam are given below: Best Maths Books for NDA Mathematics for NDA and NA by RS Aggarwal Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by RS Aggarwal Best English Books for NDA Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren & Martin Objective General English by SP Bakshi Best NDA Books for Physics Objective Physics for the NDA and NA by D.C. Pandey Concepts of Physics (Part 1 & Part 2) by H.C. Verma Best NDA Books for History History of Modern India by Bipan Chandra India's Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra Best NDA Books for Current Affairs Manorama Yearbook by Mammen Mathew Pratiyogita Darpan by Upkar Prakashan

Which are the good books for NDA Maths?

The good books for NDA Maths are given below: Mathematics for NDA and NA: National Defence Academy and Naval Academy by RS Aggarwal Quantitative aptitude for competitive examinations by RS Aggarwal. The tips and tricks to prepare NDA Maths paper are given below: Know the NDA exam pattern for the written exam to understand the structure of the exam Candidates need to be thorough with the NDA syllabus Candidates must revise thoroughly the Class 10, 11 and 12 Maths books Maintain a separate notebook for the formulas and short tricks for calculation Candidates must pratice the previous years' question papers to know the types of questions asked in the Maths section Cover the maximum syllabus of Maths Understand the basics and question difficulty level. Solve mock tests to improve speed and accuracy Read the right NDA Books for Maths to develop the concept and build the base Make note of the scoring and important topics

Which are the best books for NDA SSB Interview?

Cracking SSB Interview is not easy task. The difficulty level is high and candidates must have sound knowledge of their subjects to clear the interview. The best books for SSB Interview are given below: SSB Interview: The Complete Guide by Dr N. K. Natarajan SSB OIR & PPDT: Complete Guide to Stage 1 SSB Interview by DDE.

How can I improve my Vocabulary for NDA exam?

The tips and tricks to improve vocabularly for NDA exam are given below: To enhance your NDA vocabulary for the exam, start by reading Candidates must make a note of the topics they have learned during the exam preparation Candidates must learn the orgin of the words Candidates must practive questions based on the syllabus

NDA Syllabus 2025: Maths, GAT, English & GK Syllabus PDF Download

2.2K Students Q&A

Registration - 28 May '25 - 17 Jun '25

Updated on Apr 25, 2025 12:10 IST

By Anangsha Patra, Deputy Manager – Editorial

NDA Syllabus 2025: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) released the NDA syllabus along with the notification. NDA syllabus is framed based on the level of the exam. NDA syllabus plays an important role in exam preparation. NDA syllabus 2025 comprises topics from Maths and GAT. The level of NDA syllabus is of Class 9, 10, 11, and 12 standards. NDA Maths syllabus comprises topics from Algebra, Calculus, Matrices and Determinants, Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Trigonometry, Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension, and Statistics and Probability. NDA GAT syllabus carries topics from English, Physics, Chemistry, Social Studies, General Science, Geography, and Current Events. The total marks allotted to NDA 2025 exam are 900.

We have provided on this NDA syllabus PDF which candidates can download and prepare for the exam. The latest NDA syllabus has been framed based on the exam pattern. The selection for NDA exam is done through the written exam and SSB interview.

Also Read: UPSC CAPF 2025 exam

Q: What is NDA syllabus?

NDA syllabus is prescribed by the examination authority so that candidates can know what they need to prepare for the exam. The standard of NDA syllabus is of Class 10, 11 and 12 levels. NDA syllabus is divided into two parts-Maths and GAT. NDA Maths syllabus carries questions from Algebra Calculus, Matrices and Determinants Integral Calculus and Differential Equations Trigonometry Vector Algebra Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension and Statistics and Probability.. NDA GAT syllabus carries questions from topics such as Usage, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion. Questions in General Knowledge are asked from Physics Chemistry Social Studies, General Science, Geography, and Current Events.

Q: Where can I get NDA syllabus?

NDA syllabus is prescribed by UPSC. The syllabus is mentioned on the notification. NDA syllabus is divided into Maths and GAT. The standard of NDA syllabus is of Class 10, 11 and 12 levels. The total marks allotted to the written exam are 900. NDA Maths syllabus comprises topics such as Algebra, Calculus, Matrices and Determinants, Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Trigonometry, Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension and Statistics and Probability. NDA GAT syllabus comprises topics such as Grammar and Usage, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion, Physics, Chemistry, Social Studies, General Science, Geography, and Current Events.

Q: Where can I find NDA syllabus PDF?

NDA syllabus PDF is provided on this page. The syllabus PDF comprises the important topics related to the exam. Candidates can download the syllabus PDF and start preparing for the exam. With good practice, candidates can ace the exam.

Q: What level of math questions are asked in NDA?

The Paper 1 of NDA Maths section carries 300 marks. The exam comprises of 120 questions in maths from Class 12 level. For each correct answer, candidate get 2.5 marks. Additionally, 0.83 mark is deducted for wrong response. Questions in Maths are asked from Algebra, Calculus, Matrices and Determinants, Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Trigonometry, Vector Algebra, Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension and Statistics and Probability.

Q: Are NDA and CDS syllabus same?

NDA exam is conducted for admission to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy Course. CDS exam is conducted to select eligible candidates for Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officers Training Academy (OTA).

NDA and CDS syllabus are different. Candidates can check below in detail:

The level of NDA syllabus is of Class 10, 11 and 12 levels. Whereas, the standard of CDS syllabus is of graduation level. NDA syllabus is divided into Maths and GAT. CDS syllabus is divided into Elementary Maths, English and General Awareness. The total marks allotted to the NDA written exam are 900. The total marks allotted to the written exam of CDS are 300 for IMA, INA and AFA and 200 for OTA.

Table of content

NDA Syllabus 2025
NDA Maths Syllabus
NDA GAT Syllabus 2025
NDA SSB Syllabus
NDA Exam Pattern 2025
Books for NDA 2025
How to Prepare for NDA 2025 Exam?
NDA Selection Process
NDA Syllabus 2025 FAQs

NDA Syllabus 2025

NDA syllabus is divided into Maths and General Ability Test (GAT). Total of 120 questions are asked from the Maths section and 150 questions are there in the GAT paper. NDA GAT syllabus aims to test a candidate's basic knowledge of History, GK, Current Affairs of National and International Events, English, Science, and Geography. NDA Maths syllabus assesses a candidate's ability to solve Mathematical problems by applying formulas, theorems, etc. The level of NDA syllabus is of Class 10, 11, and 12 standards. In NDA syllabus, GAT paper holds the maximum weightage.

The total marks allotted to GAT paper are 600. The Maths paper carries 300 marks. UPSC conducts the SSB interview for candidates who obtain the cut off marks in the written exam. With the help of the NDA syllabus, candidates can know the important topics for the exam and plan their studies accordingly. After completing the syllabus, candidates must go through NDA question papers. By solving the question papers, candidates can know the types of questions asked in the exam. NDA answer key comprises the correct answers to the questions asked in the exam.

NDA Syllabus 2025 Highlights

Candidates can check below the highlights of NDA syllabus 2025.

Parameters	Details
Name of the Exam	National Defence Academy Exam or NDA exam
Exam Conducting Body	Union Public Service Commission, UPSC
Frequency of NDA Exam	Two times a year (NDA 1 & NDA 2)
Selection Process	Written Test Intelligence & Personality Test (SSB)
Mode of exam	Offline (Pen and Paper mode)
Total Papers in NDA Exam	Mathematics General Ability Test (GAT)
Total Marks for NDA Exam	Total: 900 Marks Mathematics: 300 Marks GAT: 600 Marks
Total No. of Questions	Mathematics: 120 GAT: 150
Negative Marking	Mathematics: -0.83 GAT: -1.33 marks
Exam Duration	Mathematics: 2 Hours 30 Minutes GAT: 2 Hours 30 Minutes

NDA Syllabus PDF

NDA syllabus PDF is divided into two subjects-Mathematics and General Ability Test. NDA General Ability syllabus is divided into two sub-parts-English and General Knowledge. NDA Syllabus 2025 PDF Download in GAT comprises various subjects such as physics, chemistry, general science, social studies, geography, and current events. Candidates can download NDA syllabus PDF and strategise their preparation for the exam.

Download here NDA Syllabus PDF

NDA Syllabus: Important Topics

It is important that candidates must refer to the NDA syllabus before beginning with their NDA preparation. The syllabus will help candidates to know the topics they need to cover for the exam. Some of the important topics that candidates must prepare for NDA exam are given below:

English: Reading Comprehension, Synonyms, Antonyms, Spotting errors, Vocabulary, Idioms and Phrases, etc.
NDA Maths Syllabus: Matrices and Determinants, Sets, Venn Diagram, Trigonometry, 2D and 3D Geometry, Differential calculus, etc.
General Knowledge: History, Chemistry, Current Affairs, Art and Culture, Physics, Chemistry, Basic Science, etc.

NDA Maths Syllabus

NDA syllabus for Paper 1 comprises topics and sub-topics from Maths. This paper carries 120 questions of Class 10, 11 and 12 standards. Candidates get 2.5 marks for each correct answer and there is also a negative marking of 0.83 marks for each incorrect answer.

Overview of NDA Paper 1

Total Marks	300 Marks
Total No. of Questions	120
Correct Answer	2.5 marks
Marks deducted for the wrong answer	- 0.83
Total duration of Mathematics Paper	2 Hours 30 Minutes

NDA Maths Syllabus 2025

The standard of NDA question paper for the Mathematics section is of Class 11 and 12 levels. Candidates can clear their concepts of Maths by referring to the NCERT books of Class 11 and 12. This section tests the candidate's calculative skills. Let us know the topic-wise NDA Mathematics syllabus.

Topics	Sub-Topics
Algebra	Sets, Venn diagrams, De Morgan laws, Cartesian product, relation, equivalence relation. Real numbers, Complex numbers, Modulus, Cube roots, Conversion of a number in Binary system to Decimals and vice-versa. Arithmetic, Geometric and Harmonic progressions. Quadratic equations, Linear inequations, Permutation and Combination, Binomial theorem and Logarithms.
Calculus	Concept of a real valued function, domain, range and graph of a function. Composite functions, one to one, onto and inverse functions. Notion of limit, Standard limits, Continuity of functions, algebraic operations on continuous functions. Derivative of function at a point, geometrical and physical interpretation of a derivative-application. Derivatives of sum, product and quotient of functions, derivative of a function with respect to another function, derivative of a composite function. Second order derivatives. Increasing and decreasing functions. Application of derivatives in problems of maxima and minima
Matrices and Determinants	Types of matrices, operations on matrices. Determinant of a matrix, basic properties of determinants. Adjoint and inverse of a square matrix, Applications-Solution of a system of linear equations in two or three unknowns by Cramer’s rule and by Matrix Method.
Integral Calculus and Differential Equations	Integration as inverse of differentiation, integration by substitution and by parts, standard integrals involving algebraic expressions, trigonometric, exponential and hyperbolic functions. Evaluation of definite integrals—determination of areas of plane regions bounded by curves-applications. Definition of order and degree of a differential equation, formation of a differential equation by examples. General and particular solution of differential equations, solution of first order and first-degree differential equations of various types—examples. Application in problems of growth and decay.
Trigonometry	Angles and their measures in degrees and in radians. Trigonometric ratios. Trigonometric identities Sum and difference formulae. Multiple and Sub-multiple angles. Inverse trigonometric functions. Applications-Height and distance, properties of triangles.
Vector Algebra	Vectors in two and three dimensions, magnitude, and direction of a vector. Unit and null vectors, the addition of vectors, scalar multiplication of a vector, scalar product, or dot product of two vectors. Vector product or cross product of two vectors. Applications—work done by a force and moment of a force and in geometrical problems.
Analytical Geometry Of Two and Three Dimension	Rectangular Cartesian Coordinate system, Distance formula, Equation of a line in various forms. The angle between two lines. Distance of a point from a line. Equation of a circle in standard and in a general form. Standard forms of parabola, ellipse, and hyperbola. Eccentricity and axis of a conic. Point in a three-dimensional space, the distance between two points. Direction Cosines and direction ratios. Equation two points. Direction Cosines and direction ratios. Equation of a plane and a line in various forms. Angle between two lines and angle between two planes. Equation of a sphere.
Statistics and Probability	Probability: Random experiment, outcomes, and associated sample space, events, mutually exclusive and exhaustive events, impossible and certain events. Union and Intersection of events. Complementary, elementary, and composite events. Definition of probability—classical and statistical—examples. Elementary theorems on probability-simple problems. Conditional probability, Bayes’ theorem—simple problems. Random variable as function on a sample space. Binomial distribution, examples of random experiments giving rise to Binomial distribution.

Also Read:

NCERT Maths Solution Class 11

NCERT Maths Solution Class 12

Topic-wise distribution of questions in Maths

The topic-wise distribution of questions in the Maths section is given below.

Topic	Questions
Calculus	20-25
Quadratic equation	20-15
Matrices & Determinants	30
Probability	10
Trigonometry	30
Complex number	10-15

NDA Marking Scheme for Maths

Candidates will get 2.5 marks for each correct answer and there is also a negative marking of 0.83 marks deducted for each incorrect answer. Candidates can check below the marking scheme as well as the number of questions.

Total Marks	300 Marks
Total No. of Questions	120
Correct Answer	2.5 marks
Marks deducted for the wrong answer	- 0.83
Total duration of Mathematics Paper	2 Hours 30 Minutes

Prepare for JEE Main Entrance Exam with Question Papers, Syllabus, Pattern and Preparation Tips

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NDA GAT Syllabus 2025

NDA syllabus for Paper 2 comprises General Ability Test (GAT) which includes the topics and sub-topics from General Knowledge (GK), English, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, General Science, and Current Events. A total of 150 questions are asked in this paper, out of which 50 questions are from English and the remaining 100 questions are from General Knowledge. The total marks allotted to this section are 600. The basic overview of NDA syllabus for Paper 2 is given below.

Parameters	Details
Total marks allotted for GAT paper	600 marks
No. of questions	150
Total questions in English	50
Total Questions in GK	100
Total Marks for English	200
Total Marks for GK	400
Marks for Correct Answer	4 marks in each section
Marks for Incorrect Answer	-1.33 marks in each section
Total Duration of GAT Paper	2 Hours 30 Minutes

NDA English Syllabus

NDA English syllabus comprises the topics that test the basic proficiency in English Language and Comprehension. A total of 50 questions are asked from this section. NDA syllabus for English can be prepared by reading books and newspapers. The difficulty level of this section is easy to moderate. NDA syllabus for English is given below.

Grammar & usage
Comprehension & cohesion
Spotting of errors
Para Jumbling
Fill in the blanks
Synonyms & Antonyms
Vocabulary
Cloze Test
Idioms & Proverbs
Completion of Sentence & Para
Sentence Correction & Improvement
Vocabulary

NDA Syllabus for GAT

The question paper of the GAT covers subjects that include Physics, Chemistry, Social Studies, General Science, Geography and Current Events. NDA syllabus for GAT is given below.

NDA Physics Syllabus

Around 23-25 questions are asked from Physics. NDA Physics syllabus is given below.

Physical Properties and States of Matter	Modes of transference of Heat
Mass	Sound waves and their properties
Weight	Simple musical instruments
Volume	Rectilinear propagation of Light
Density and Specific Gravity	Reflection and refraction
Principle of Archimedes	Spherical mirrors and Lenses
Pressure Barometer	Human Eye
Motion of objects	Natural and Artificial Magnets
Velocity and Acceleration	Properties of a Magnet
Newton’s Laws of Motion	Earth as a Magnet
Force and Momentum	Static and Current Electricity
Parallelogram of Forces	Conductors and Non-conductors
Stability and Equilibrium of bodies	Ohm’s Law
Gravitation	Simple Electrical Circuits
Elementary ideas of work	Heating, Lighting and Magnetic effects of Current
Power and Energy	Measurement of Electrical Power
Effects of Heat	Primary and Secondary Cells
Measurement of Temperature and Heat	Use of X-Rays ,General Principles in the working of Simple Pendulum, Simple Pulleys, Siphon, Levers, Balloon, Pumps, Hydrometer, Pressure Cooker, Thermos Flask, Gramophone, Telegraphs, Telephone, Periscope, Telescope, Microscope, Mariner’s Compass; Lightning Conductors, Safety Fuses.

Also Read:

NCERT Solutions for Physics Class 11

NCERT Solutions for Physics Class 12

NDA Chemistry Syllabus

NDA Chemistry Syllabus contains topics of Class 12 level. NDA Chemistry syllabus is given below.

Preparation and Properties of Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide, Oxidation and Reduction. Acids, bases and salts. Carbon— different forms	Physical and Chemical Changes
Fertilizers—Natural and Artificial	Elements
Material used in the preparation of substances like Soap, Glass, Ink, Paper, Cement, Paints, Safety Matches and Gunpowder	Mixtures and Compounds
Elementary ideas about the structure of Atom	Symbols, Formulae and simple Chemical Equation
Atomic Equivalent and Molecular Weights	Law of Chemical Combination (excluding problems)
Valency	Properties of Air and Water

Also Read:

NCERT Chemistry Solutions for Class 11

NCERT Chemistry Solutions for Class 12

NDA General Science Syllabus

NDA syllabus for General Science includes topics that assess the basic knowledge of the candidate on science and environment. NDA General Science syllabus is given below.

Common Epidemics, their causes and prevention	Difference between the living and non-living
Food-Source of Energy for man	Basis of Life—Cells, Protoplasms and Tissues
Constituents of food	Growth and Reproduction in Plants and Animals
Balanced Diet	Elementary knowledge of Human Body and its important organs
The Solar System-Meteors and Comets, Eclipses. Achievements of Eminent Scientists

NDA History Syllabus

NDA History syllabus contains topics on Culture and Civilization, the Freedom Movement in India, American Independence, French Revolution, etc. Check the list of topics included in the UPSC NDA syllabus for History below.

Forces shaping the modern world; Renaissance	A broad survey of Indian History, with emphasis on Culture and Civilisation
Exploration and Discovery; War of American Independence, French Revolution, Industrial Revolution and Russian Revolution	Freedom Movement in India
Impact of Science and Technology on Society	Elementary study of Indian Constitution and Administration
Concept of one World	Elementary knowledge of Five Year Plans of India
United Nations, Panchsheel, Democracy, Socialism and Communism	Panchayati Raj
Role of India in the present world	Co-operatives and Community Development
A broad survey of Indian History, with emphasis on Culture and Civilisation	Bhoodan, Sarvodaya, National Integration and Welfare State
Basic Teachings of Mahatma Gandhi	-

NDA Geography Syllabus

NDA Geography Syllabus assesses the candidate’s knowledge about earth and its resources and environment.

The Earth, its shape and size	Ocean Currents and Tides Atmosphere and its composition
Latitudes and Longitudes	Temperature and Atmospheric Pressure, Planetary Winds, Cyclones and Anticyclones; Humidity; Condensation and Precipitation
Concept of time	Types of Climate
International Date Line	Major Natural regions of the World
Movements of Earth and their effects	Regional Geography of India—Climate, Natural vegetation. Mineral and Power resources; location and distribution of agricultural and Industrial activities
Origin of Earth. Rocks and their classification	Important Sea ports and main sea, land and air routes of India
Weathering—Mechanical and Chemical, Earthquakes and Volcanoes	Main items of Imports and Exports of India

UPSC NDA Current Affairs Syllabus

NDA Current Affairs syllabus includes topics based on the latest current affairs events of India as well as the world.

Knowledge of Important events that have happened in India in the recent years	Prominent personalities—both Indian and International including those connected with cultural activities and sports
Current important world events	-

NDA SSB Syllabus

SSB Interview

SSB Interview is conducted in two stages. The details regarding the stages are explained below:

Stage 1

Screening Test that comprises Verbal and non-verbal tests and PPDT

Stage 2

Psychological Test comprises Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), Situation Reaction Test (SRT), and Self Description Test (SD). Group Testing Officers Test comprises GD, GPE, PGT, HGT, IOT, Command Task, Snake race/Group Obstacle Race, Individual lecture and FGT. The final phase of stage 2 is Personal Interview & conference.

NDA Syllabus for Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR)

The syllabus for OIR is given below.

Verbal Test	Non – Verbal Test
Figures	Completion of Series
Analogies	Blood Relation
Figure Matrix	Shorter and Taller Problems
Locating Hidden Figure	Logical Venn Diagram
Odd one out	Jumbled Words
Classification of data	Coding-Decoding
Paper Cutting	One word Substitution
Problem on Dice	Problem on Ranks
Problem on Cubes	Interchanging 2 signs
Visualizing Patterns	Identification of letters
Spatial Ability	Reconstruction of test

NDA Exam Pattern 2025

NDA exam is conducted in two stages: written exam and SSB Interview. The written exam is conducted in two shifts- morning and afternoon. The written exam is divided into two parts: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The GAT is further divided into Part A-English Test and Part B- General Awareness or General Knowledge Test. A total 150 questions are asked in GAT section and 120 in Mathematics. The question paper will be available in both English and Hindi. The written exam carries a total of 900 marks. The total duration of the written exam is five hours. Candidates qualifying the written exam are called for SSB Interview. Total marks allotted to SSB Interview are 900. NDA exam pattern is given below.

Subject	Marks	Number of questions	Duration of test
Mathematics	300	120	2 ½
GAT	600	150	2 ½
Total	900	270	5 hours

Also Read: NDA Mock Test

The Pattern of SSB Interview is given below.

Stages	Tests
Stage 1	Screening Test	Verbal and non-verbal tests. PPDT
Stage 2	Psychological Test	Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) Word Association Test (WAT) Situation Reaction Test (SRT) Self Description Test (SD)
	Group Testing Officers Test	GD GPE PGT HGT IOT Command Task Snake race/Group Obstacle Race Individual lecture FGT
	Personal Interview	-
	Conference	-

NDA Marking Scheme

UPSC prescribes the marking scheme of NDA. As per the marking scheme, candidates will get negative marks of 1/3 for any wrong answer. No marks will be deducted if a question is left unanswered. The marking scheme of each section is given below.

Written Exams	Marks for the correct answer	Marks incorrect answer
Mathematics	2.5	0.83
GAT	4	1.33

Books for NDA 2025

NDA is a competitive exam to recruit candidates as Officers in the three branches of Indian Armed Forces. To crack the exam, candidates must have the right set of NDA books. These books will help candidates to clear the concepts of the topics given in the syllabus. Candidates can refer to the following books for NDA.

Subjects	Books
Mathematics	Mathematics for NDA and NA: National Defence Academy and Naval Academy by RS Aggarwal Quantitative aptitude for competitive examinations by RS Aggarwal
GAT	History Of Modern India (History) by Bipan Chandra Science and Technology in India (Science and Technology) by Kalpana Rajaram: Spectrum Objective General English for Competitive Exams by S P Bakshi Manorama Yearbook by Mammen Mathew

How to Prepare for NDA 2025 Exam?

NDA is one of the most important defence exams in the exam. Lakhs of candidates appear for the exam. Candidates must have good level of NDA preparation inorder to crack both written exam and SSB interview. The tips and tricks to crack NDA 2025 exam are given below:

Make sure you have a clear understanding of the exam format and syllabus. This will help you focus your studies and ensure that you are covering all the important topics
Create a study plan that includes a schedule for when you will study, what you will study, and how you will review your progress
Start by studying the basics of the subjects included in the exam. Make sure you have a good understanding of the key concepts and principles
Practicing with sample papers and previous year papers will help you get a feel for the types of questions that you will encounter in the actual exam
If you are struggling with any particular subject or concept, get it cleared by experts

NDA Selection Process

NDA selection process comprises written exam and SSB Interview. The written exam is divided into two papers-Maths and GAT. The total marks allotted to the written exam as per NDA selection process are 900. Candidates qualifying the written exam are called for SSB Interview. The SSB interview carries 900 marks. The final selection of candidates is done based on the written exam and SSB interview. The selection of candidates is made based on the merit. Candidates need to satisfy the medical standards fixed by NDA.