The UPSC NDA Exam is one of the most sought-after entrance exams in India, paving the way for young aspirants to join the prestigious National Defence Academy. Understanding the NDA Exam Pattern 2025 is crucial for efficient preparation. This article covers all aspects of the exam, including the marking scheme, number of papers, total marks, and subject-wise marks distribution.
UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2025 Overview
The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. It consists of two stages:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
The written examination evaluates candidates on mathematics and general ability. Success in this stage is required to proceed to the SSB interview.
How Many Papers Are in the NDA Exam 2025?
The written exam includes two papers:
- Mathematics
- General Ability Test (GAT)
Each paper is conducted on the same day, with specified durations and weightage. Understanding the structure of these papers is essential to strategize your preparation.
NDA Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme 2025
| Paper | Duration | Total Marks | Number of Questions | Marking Scheme |
| Mathematics | 2.5 hours | 300 | 120 | +2.5 marks per correct answer-0.83 marks per incorrect answer |
| General Ability Test (GAT) | 2.5 hours | 600 | 150 | English: +4 marks, -1.33 marksGeneral Knowledge: +4 marks, -1.33 marks |
UPSC NDA Exam Total Marks 2025
| Stage | Total Marks |
| Written Exam | 900 |
| SSB Interview | 900 |
| Final Total | 1800 |
NDA Marks Distribution Subject-Wise
For a comprehensive preparation, one needs to understand the minutes of the syllabus and the weightage of each section of the syllabus. Below we have provided the required inforamtion:
The topic-wise question distribution in Mathematics
The question paper in Mathematics will be designed to test the candidate’s understanding of Mathematics. It covers various aspects like: Calculus, Quadratic equations etc.
| Topic | Questions |
| Calculus | 20-25 |
| Quadratic equation | 20-15 |
| Matrices & Determinants | 30 |
| Probability | 10 |
| Trigonometry | 30 |
| Complex number | 10-15 |
The topic-wise question distribution in English
The question paper in English will be designed to test the candidate’s understanding of English. It covers various aspects like: Grammar and usage, vocabulary, comprehension, Selecting Words etc to test the candidate’s proficiency in English.
| Topic | No. of Questions | No. of Marks |
| Spotting Errors | 5 | 20 |
| Comprehension | 6 | 24 |
| Selecting Words | 10 | 40 |
| Ordering of Words in a Sentence | 9 | 36 |
| Sentence Improvement | 10 | 40 |
| Antonyms | 5 | 20 |
| Synonyms | 5 | 20 |
| Total | 50 | 200 |
NDA General Knowledge question distribution:
The question paper on General Knowledge will cover subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, General Science, Social Studies, Geography, and Current Affairs.
| Topic | No. of Questions | No. of Marks |
| Physics | 23 | 92 |
| Chemistry | 16 | 64 |
| General Science | 11 | 44 |
| History & Freedom Movement | 16 | 64 |
| Geography | 17 | 68 |
| Current Affairs | 17 | 68 |
| Total | 100 | 400 |
UPSC NDA SSB Interview
The pattern for the SSB interview is as follows:
| NDA – SSB Interview Pattern 2023 | ||
| Stage 1 | Screening Test |
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| Stage 2 | Psychological Test |
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| Group Testing Officers Test |
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Negative Marking in the NDA Exam
The negative marking in the NDA exam makes accuracy vital. Blind guessing can significantly lower your score due to penalties for incorrect answers. Here’s a summary of the negative marking system:
| Paper | Marks Deducted for Incorrect Answer |
| Mathematics | 0.83 |
| General Ability Test | 1.33 |
To avoid losing marks unnecessarily, it’s advisable to attempt only those questions you’re confident about.
How Many Questions Are Asked in the NDA Exam?
| Paper | Number of Questions |
| Mathematics | 120 |
| General Ability Test | 150 |
| Total | 270 |
Other Articles |
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UPSC NDA Exam Pattern FAQs
Q1: How many papers are there in the NDA exam?
There are two papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT).
Q2: What are the total marks of the NDA written exam?
The total marks of the written exam are 900.
Q3: Is there negative marking in the NDA exam?
Yes, incorrect answers attract negative marks: 0.83 for Mathematics and 1.33 for GAT.
Q4: How many questions are asked in the NDA exam?
A total of 270 questions are asked, with 120 in Mathematics and 150 in GAT.
Q5: What is the duration of each paper in the NDA exam?
Each paper is 2.5 hours long.
