What Are the Passing Marks and Qualifying Marks for NDA Exam 2027?
KF
Team Kampus Filter
Student College Research Team
Updated: September 20263 min read
Quick Summary
Approx Qualifying Criteria: 25-30% per subject | Typical Final Cut-off: 340-360/900
There is no single 'passing mark' for the NDA written exam. Candidates must achieve a minimum of approximately 25% to 30% in each subject to qualify for the SSB interview. Final selection depends on the UPSC-determined cut-off, which typically ranges between 340 and 360 marks out of 900.
The National Defence Academy (NDA) examination process is bifurcated into written assessment and the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. Many aspirants mistakenly search for a 'passing mark' as if it were a standard board exam. In reality, the UPSC sets a sectional qualifying threshold—typically around 25% to 30% of the total marks per subject—to ensure candidates possess foundational knowledge in both Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT).
It is crucial to distinguish between these sectional 'qualifying marks' and the 'final cut-off.' The final cut-off is the aggregate score required to be shortlisted for the SSB interview. Historically, this aggregate fluctuates based on the difficulty level of the paper and the number of vacancies. For the 2025–2026 cycles, the aggregate cut-off hovered around the 340–360 mark range. Achieving the sectional minimum does not guarantee a call-up; you must exceed the aggregate cut-off to progress.
Key Points for Students
- ✓Sectional Qualifying: Minimum 25-30% per subject (Mathematics & GAT).
- ✓Aggregate Cut-off: Determined by UPSC based on total performance (approx. 340-360).
- ✓SSB Interview: The second hurdle that contributes to the final merit list.
According to official UPSC notifications and recent NDA exam trends, the competition for the 400+ available vacancies remains intense. While the written exam serves as the primary filter, the final merit list is prepared by combining written scores with SSB interview marks. Candidates should note that the 'passing marks' are not static; they are calibrated by the Commission to maintain the high standards required for the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings.
Aspirants are strongly advised to refer to the official UPSC portal for the most recent 'Cut-off Marks' notification. Relying on third-party forums or hearsay can lead to misinformation regarding eligibility. Always verify your specific category requirements (General, OBC, SC/ST) as these can influence the final selection threshold. For detailed breakdown of vacancy distributions and branch-specific requirements, the official UPSC information brochure remains the only authoritative source.
NDA Exam Performance Metrics & Expectations
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Quick Comparison
| Parameter | Requirement/Range | Weightage | ROI/Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sectional Qualifying | 25-30% per subject | Mandatory | Eligibility to be ranked |
| Aggregate Cut-off | 340-360 Marks | Variable | SSB Interview Call |
| SSB Interview | 900 Marks | Equal to Written | Final Merit List |
Step-by-Step Practical Decision Framework
Actionable steps to evaluate institutions before applying
1Step 1
Analyze Sectional Strength
Focus on clearing the 30% threshold in Mathematics and GAT independently.
2Step 2
Target Aggregate Goals
Aim for a buffer score of 400+ to account for annual cut-off fluctuations.
3Step 3
Verify Official Data
Always cross-check the UPSC official website for the latest exam notification.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common student admission questions
Is there a negative marking in the NDA exam?
Yes, there is a negative marking of 1/3rd of the marks assigned to a question for every incorrect answer in the objective-type papers.
Can I qualify for NDA with just the sectional minimum?
No, clearing the sectional minimum is mandatory but not sufficient; you must also score above the overall aggregate cut-off set by the UPSC.
Where can I find the official NDA cut-off for the current year?
The official cut-off marks are published on the UPSC website (upsc.gov.in) after the final results are declared for each examination cycle.
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.