UPSC Recruitment 2026 – 394 NDA NA II Posts
The Union Public Service Commission has officially released the notification for the NDA & NA (II) Examination 2026, inviting applications for 394 vacancies. Eligible male and female candidates can apply online through the official UPSC portal until June 9, 2026. This prestigious recruitment drive offers a gateway to a career in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
| Organisation | Union Public Service Commission |
|---|---|
| Post Name | National Defence Academy & Naval Academy (II) Examination |
| Total Vacancies | 394 |
| Last Date | |
| Qualification | 12th pass (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics required for Air Force/Navy/Naval Academy). |
| Category | Defence Jobs·Central Government Jobs |
| District | All Districts |
National Defence Academy & Naval Academy (II) Vacancy Details
The UPSC has announced a total of 394 vacancies for the 2026 session. The distribution of these posts is as follows:
- Army: 208 posts
- Navy: 42 posts
- Air Force: 120 posts
- Naval Academy: 24 posts
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must have passed the 12th standard under the 10+2 pattern of school education. For the Air Force and Naval wings, as well as the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at the Indian Naval Academy, candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Students currently appearing for their 12th-grade exams are also eligible to apply, though those in the 11th grade are strictly excluded.
Age Limit & Relaxation
Only unmarried male and female candidates born between July 1, 2007, and July 1, 2010, are eligible to participate in this recruitment cycle.
Application Fee
General and OBC male candidates are required to pay an application fee of Rs. 100/-. Female candidates, as well as SC/ST applicants and wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs studying in military schools, are exempted from the fee payment.
Salary & Pay Scale
Selected candidates will receive a stipend during their training period at the National Defence Academy. Upon successful commissioning, officers are entitled to a competitive salary structure as per the 7th Pay Commission, along with various allowances and benefits provided by the Ministry of Defence.
Selection Process
Candidates will be evaluated through a two-stage process. First, a written examination worth 900 marks will be conducted. Those who qualify will proceed to the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which also carries 900 marks, to assess their personality and leadership potential.
About Union Public Service Commission
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) stands as India’s premier central recruiting agency, established under Article 315 of the Constitution of India. Headquartered at Dholpur House in New Delhi, the commission is responsible for conducting examinations for appointments to the services of the Union and All India Services. Since its inception in 1926, the UPSC has maintained a reputation for absolute integrity and impartiality in the selection process for the nation’s civil and defence services. The commission operates under the mandate of the Department of Personnel and Training, ensuring that the most capable individuals are selected to serve the country.
Beyond its role in civil services, the UPSC plays a critical role in national security by conducting the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) examinations. These exams serve as the primary entry point for young, motivated individuals to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers. The commission’s geographic coverage is pan-India, with examination centers located in every major city, ensuring that candidates from all corners of the country have equal access to these opportunities.
Career prospects within the UPSC-recruited services are unparalleled, offering not just job security but a life of honor, leadership, and service to the nation. Officers selected through the NDA/NA route undergo rigorous training at the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune, which is globally recognized for its excellence in military and academic education. By maintaining a transparent and merit-based selection process, the UPSC continues to be the backbone of India’s administrative and defense infrastructure. Candidates who successfully clear the written examination and the subsequent Services Selection Board (SSB) interview embark on a transformative journey that shapes both their personal character and the future of the Indian military. The commission remains committed to its mission of selecting the best talent to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India.
How to Apply
Interested individuals must submit their applications exclusively through the official UPSC website at https://www.upsc.gov.in/. Ensure all personal and educational details are entered accurately before the final submission deadline.
Important Dates
- Application Start Date: 20-May-2026
- Last Date for Submission: 09-June-2026 (up to 6:00 PM)
- Exam Date: 13-September-2026
- Admit Card Release: Seven days prior to the examination
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Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Download Our App | Click Here |
| Best MPSC Books | Click Here |
| Official Notification | Click Here |
| Online Application Portal | Click Here |
| Official Notification | Click Here |
| Registration | Click Here |
| Login | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Union Public Service Commission NDA NA 2026?
Unmarried male and female candidates who have passed or are appearing for their 12th standard examination can apply. Candidates must be born between July 1, 2007, and July 1, 2010.
What is the salary for NDA NA posts at UPSC?
While the specific salary is determined upon commissioning, cadets receive a fixed stipend during their training at the academy. Post-commissioning, officers receive a salary package aligned with the 7th Pay Commission standards.
What is the selection process for UPSC NDA NA 2026?
The selection process consists of a written examination worth 900 marks followed by an SSB interview, which is also worth 900 marks. Candidates must qualify in both stages to be considered for final selection.
Is UPSC a Central or State Government organisation?
The Union Public Service Commission is a Central Government constitutional body. It is responsible for conducting examinations for appointments to the services of the Union and All India Services.