Enrolling in NDA 1 or NDA 2 for Class 11 and 12 Students

Many students in Class 11 and 12 have questions about their eligibility to apply for the NDA 1 and NDA 2 exams, which are conducted for entry into the National Defence Academy (NDA). This article is designed to provide clarity and guide you through the eligibility criteria, procedures, and implications of taking the NDA 1 and NDA 2 exams while in Class 11 and Class 12.

Eligibility for NDA 1 in Class 12

Yes, you can appear for the NDA 1 exam while you are in Class 12. However, it is not recommended. The written examination of NDA 1 is not binding; if you pass, you will not be able to proceed with the subsequent stages, including the SSB (Services Selection Board) and further. When you join the academy, you must have already passed your Class 12 exams. For NDA 1, the batch starts in January, but you won't be able to join if you haven't completed your Class 12 exams by then.

Therefore, it is recommended that you appear for the NDA 2 exam when you are in Class 12, as this will give you a more structured and more aligned timeline for the entire process. If you still want to attempt NDA 1, it is better to attempt it at home with a proper time limit and in a disciplined manner.

Eligibility for NDA 2 in Class 12

Students who are currently in Class 12 can attend both NDA 1 and NDA 2 as the National Defence Academy (NDA) allows candidates in the twelfth grade to apply. The age range for applicants is between 16.5 and 19.5 years. To be eligible, candidates must have either passed or be currently sitting for their Class 12 exams, with Physics and Mathematics as their subjects, if they wish to join the Army, Navy, or Air Force. It is important to read the official notification carefully to get the exact application dates and any other necessary information.

Implications for Class 11 Students

Yes, candidates in Class 11 are also eligible to appear for the NDA 2 exams. However, the implication is the same for Class 11 students as for Class 12 students. They can appear for the exam, but it is not advisable to take a formal attempt. Once the Class 11 students complete their Class 12 exams, they can make a formal application and proceed with the further process.

Timeline and Conditions for Applying

There are certain conditions to appear for NDA. You must be between the ages of 16.5 and 19.5. Additionally, you must have completed your 12th standard exam, not while you are in the 12th. If you want to join the Air Force or Navy wing, you must have done Physics, Chemistry, and Maths and scored 60 or more. Otherwise, you can join the Army wing. The eligibility criteria for NDA 1 for 2025 are the same, with the batch commencing in January 2026 and the merit list prepared about 40 days prior to the training commencement date.

Only if you are likely to have proof of passing 12th class by about November 2025 can you apply for NDA NA 1 2025. Whether this would be officially allowed or not is something that you need to verify from the notification for that examination. Your name can figure in the merit list only if you have produced proof of passing 12th.

Conclusion

While you can take the NDA 1 or 2 exams in Class 11 or 12, it is advisable to make a formal application after completing your Class 12 exams. This ensures a smoother and more structured process, enabling you to join the academy on time.