How Many Questions Are There in NDA? Exam Pattern Explained
KF
Team Kampus Filter
Student College Research Team
Updated: September 20263 min read
Quick Summary
Total Questions: 270 | Total Marks: 900 | Duration: 5 Hours
The NDA written examination consists of a total of 270 questions across two papers. The Mathematics paper contains 120 questions, while the General Ability Test (GAT) includes 150 questions. Candidates must qualify in both sections to proceed to the SSB Interview stage. Total marks for the written exam are 900.
The National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance exam is divided into two distinct papers conducted on the same day. Understanding the distribution of these 270 questions is vital for strategic preparation. The Mathematics paper is the first session, focusing on 11th and 12th-grade curriculum, while the GAT paper assesses English and General Knowledge.
The structure is designed to test both analytical aptitude and general awareness. Each correct answer carries specific marks, while negative marking is applied for incorrect responses. Aspirants should note that the difficulty level is consistent with competitive standards, requiring a balanced approach to both sections to clear the sectional cutoffs.
Key Points for Students
- ✓Mathematics: 120 Questions (300 Marks)
- ✓General Ability Test (GAT): 150 Questions (600 Marks)
- ✓Total Exam Duration: 5 Hours (2.5 hours per paper)
According to UPSC exam notifications and institutional records, the Mathematics paper awards 2.5 marks per correct answer with a deduction of 0.83 marks for every wrong answer. In the GAT section, each correct answer carries 4 marks, with a penalty of 1.33 marks for incorrect attempts. It is imperative for students to verify these details via the official UPSC website before the examination cycle.
The GAT is further subdivided into Part A (English - 200 marks) and Part B (General Knowledge - 400 marks). As these patterns are subject to minor adjustments by the Union Public Service Commission, candidates are strongly advised to cross-check the official UPSC prospectus for the most current session guidelines.
NDA Exam Structure vs. Typical Competitive Engineering Entrance
Compare tuition fees, program duration, packages, and ROI ratings
Quick Comparison
| Exam Component | Total Questions | Total Marks | Negative Marking | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NDA Mathematics | 120 | 300 | 0.83 per error | Moderate-High |
| NDA GAT | 150 | 600 | 1.33 per error | Moderate |
| Typical Engg Entrance | 75-90 | 300 | 1.0 per error | High |
Step-by-Step Practical Decision Framework
Actionable steps to evaluate institutions before applying
1Step 1
Syllabus Alignment
Cross-reference your current academic preparation with the official UPSC NDA syllabus to identify weak areas.
2Step 2
Sectional Strategy
Allocate study time based on the weightage: GAT holds 600 marks, making it a critical scoring area compared to Mathematics.
3Step 3
Mock Examination Audit
Practice full-length papers under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy, accounting for negative marking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common student admission questions
Is there negative marking in NDA?
Yes, the NDA exam implements negative marking for both Mathematics and GAT sections. Incorrect answers result in a deduction of one-third of the marks assigned to that question.
How many hours is the NDA exam?
The total duration for the NDA written examination is 5 hours. Each paper (Mathematics and GAT) is allotted 2.5 hours.
Can I skip questions in the NDA exam?
Yes, you can skip questions. Since there is negative marking, it is strategically better to leave a question blank than to guess incorrectly.
Institutional Data & Fee Transparency Disclaimer
Fee structures, cutoff percentiles, and placement statistics published on Kampus Filter are compiled from official university prospectuses, NIRF statutory filings, UGC/AICTE public notifications, and institutional disclosures. All figures represent comparative historical benchmarks and are subject to periodic revisions by respective university governing bodies.
Prospective students and guardians are advised to verify current academic session fees, seat matrices, and admission deadlines directly with the official university admissions office prior to financial commitments. Kampus Filter is an independent higher education research directory and does not solicit donations or represent university administration.