NDA 2025 Syllabus: If you’re planning to appear for the NDA 2 2025 exam, then you must know exactly what the exam looks like. Understanding the NDA syllabus 2025 and exam pattern is the first step in your preparation.
Let’s break it down in a simple, no-stress way.
How is the NDA Exam Conducted?
The UPSC NDA exam is conducted in two stages:
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Written Exam
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SSB Interview (Services Selection Board)
You must clear both stages to get selected for the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.
NDA 2 2025 Exam Pattern
The written exam has two papers, both conducted on the same day.
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Mathematics | 300 | 2.5 hours |
| Paper II | General Ability Test | 600 | 2.5 hours |
| Total (Written) | 900 | 5 hours total |
Both papers are objective-type questions (MCQs).
Paper I – Mathematics (300 Marks)
Covers Class 11 and 12-level topics such as:
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Algebra, Trigonometry
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Matrices & Determinants
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Coordinate Geometry (2D & 3D)
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Calculus (Differential and Integral)
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Probability & Statistics
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Vector Algebra
Pro Tip: You must use a black ball pen. No calculators allowed!
Paper II – General Ability Test (600 Marks)
This paper is divided into two parts:
Part A – English (200 Marks)
Tests your:
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Grammar
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Vocabulary
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Comprehension
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Sentence structure
Part B – General Knowledge (400 Marks)
This part covers six sections:
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Physics (25% weight)
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Chemistry (15%)
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General Science (10%)
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History & Freedom Movement (20%)
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Geography (20%)
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Current Events (10%)
Total questions: 150 (approx.)
Is There Negative Marking?
Yes. One-third (0.33) marks will be deducted for each wrong answer in both papers. So, guess only when you’re somewhat sure!
What Happens After the Written Exam?
If you clear the written test, you’ll be invited for the SSB interview, which includes:
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Stage 1:
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Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test
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Picture Perception & Description Test (PPDT)
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Stage 2:
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Personal Interview
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Group Tasks
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Psychological Tests
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The SSB is held over 4-5 days and carries another 900 marks.
For Air Force Aspirants
You’ll also go through the CPSS (Computerized Pilot Selection System) test if you’re aiming for the flying branch. You only get one attempt at this test in your lifetime.
Tips to Prepare:
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Focus on NCERTs for Class 10 to 12
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Practice mock tests regularly
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Work on your spoken English for the SSB
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Stay updated with current affairs
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Develop leadership and confidence for group tasks
