NDA 2 2025 Selection Process: From Written Exam to Final Merit List

NDA 2 2025 Selection: Clearing the NDA 2 2025 exam is just the first step. The real journey to becoming a cadet at the National Defence Academy or Naval Academy involves multiple rounds. Many students don’t know what happens after the written exam—and that’s where they lose track.

So let’s understand the full NDA selection process 2025 in a step-by-step format.

Step 1: Written Exam (900 Marks)

• Conducted by UPSC

• Two papers: Mathematics (300 marks) and General Ability Test (600 marks)

• Objective-type questions only

• Must qualify minimum cut-off set by UPSC

• Negative marking: -0.33 for each wrong answer

Result: Likely to be announced in October 2025

Step 2: SSB Interview (900 Marks)

Once you clear the written exam, you’ll be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB).

This stage tests your:

• Intelligence

• Personality

• Leadership

• Team spirit

• Officer-like qualities

SSB Interview Stages Explained

Stage 1: Screening Test

Only those who qualify here move to Stage 2.

Stage 2: Main SSB Process

Held over 4–5 days and includes:

Marks are given based on overall performance, not just one test.

SSB for NDA 2 2025 will likely be conducted from December 2025 to January 2026.

Step 3: Medical Examination

• Conducted after you clear SSB

• Tests vision, height, weight, fitness, hearing, etc.

• Minor issues like ear wax or overweight can get you rejected

• Tattoos allowed only on inner forearm and back of the hand

If you’re found unfit, you can request an appeal medical board (once only).

Step 4: Final Merit List (Out of 1800 Marks)

Final NDA 2 2025 merit list is based on:

Note: Medical fitness is necessary but not counted in marks.

Candidates are selected for:

Selection is done based on preferences + marks + availability of seats.

Important Rule for Air Force Candidates

To join the Air Force Flying Branch, you must clear the CPSS (Computerized Pilot Selection System). You can take this only once in a lifetime.

If you fail, you’ll still be considered for Ground Duty or other branches (if eligible).

When is the Final NDA Result Declared?

• Final result is expected around March or April 2026

• Joining for selected candidates starts 1 July 2026

• Results will be available on the UPSC website and also at:

NDA 2025 Selection Flow at a Glance

1. Written Exam (Sep 2025)

2. SSB Interview (Dec–Jan)

3. Medical Test

4. Final Merit List (March–April)

5. Joining the Academy (July 2026)