The Union Public Service Commission has officially set the examination calendar for key defence entry exams in 2026. The announcement brings clarity for thousands of aspirants aiming for careers in the Indian Armed Forces. With dates, shifts, and vacancies now confirmed, preparation enters a decisive phase.
Exam conducting authority
All examinations are conducted by the Union Public Service Commission, India’s premier constitutional recruiting body. UPSC oversees notifications, written examinations, evaluation, and recommendation of candidates for further selection stages.
The National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026 will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026. The examination will be conducted in offline mode across centres nationwide. Candidates will attempt objective-type papers using OMR answer sheets.
Exam schedule and paper timings
The written examination is divided into two papers on the same day. The Mathematics paper will be conducted in the morning from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm. The General Ability Test will follow in the afternoon from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. This structure tests both academic strength and mental endurance.
Courses and institutions covered
The examination is the gateway to the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy. Successful candidates are trained for officer-level careers in the Army, Navy, and Air Force under the 10+2 entry scheme.
Vacancies announced for 2026
UPSC has announced a total of 394 vacancies. Of these, 370 vacancies are for male candidates and 24 vacancies are for female candidates. The distribution includes 208 vacancies for the Army, 42 for the Navy, 120 for the Air Force, and 24 specifically for the Naval Academy. These numbers highlight both competition and opportunity for eligible aspirants.
CDS exam is also scheduled on April 12, 2026
The Combined Defence Services examination will also be conducted on April 12, 2026. This makes the date significant for multiple defence aspirant groups. The CDS exam will include three papers held sequentially throughout the day.
CDS exam paper-wise timings
The English paper will be conducted from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.
The resulting General Knowledge paper will run from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm.
The Elementary Mathematics paper will be held in the evening from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Candidates must plan stamina and focus carefully across the full day.
Eligibility focus for NDA and NA
The NDA and NA examination is meant for candidates who have completed Class 12 or are appearing for their qualifying examination. It targets young aspirants at the very start of their professional journey and offers early entry into defence training.
OMR sheet and pen rules
Candidates must use only a black ball-point pen for marking answers and writing details on the OMR answer sheet. Use of pencils or pens of any other colour is strictly prohibited. Failure to follow these instructions can lead to invalidation of the answer sheet.
Importance of correct OMR encoding
The UPSC has clearly warned that mistakes in filling in details, such as the roll number or test booklet series code, can result in the rejection of the answer sheet. Accuracy while encoding details is as critical as answering questions correctly.
Negative marking system
The examination follows a negative marking scheme. Each incorrect answer in objective-type questions attracts a penalty. This system rewards accuracy and discourages blind guessing, making a careful attempt strategy essential.
The NDA and Naval Academy exams are conducted only twice a year, and age limits are strict. Missing one attempt can mean losing a crucial opportunity. With the April 2026 date confirmed, aspirants can now structure revision, mock tests, and physical preparation without uncertainty.
How aspirants should prepare now
Preparation should move from syllabus coverage to refinement. Focus on strengthening fundamentals, practising previous years’ questions, and improving speed with mock tests. At the same time, reading habits, communication skills, and physical fitness should be developed early to prepare for the SSB stage.
The bigger picture
These examinations are not just competitive tests. They are gateways to leadership roles, discipline, and national service. The UPSC calendar transforms ambition into a deadline and effort into direction.
UPSC’s announcement of the 2026 NDA, Naval Academy, and CDS exam dates provides a clear roadmap for defence aspirants. April 12, 2026, will be a defining day for many young candidates across India. Those who prepare with consistency, clarity, and discipline will stand the best chance of success.
