What Is the Exam Duration for NDA? (Time Allotted)
KF
Team Kampus Filter
Student College Research Team
Updated: September 20263 min read
Quick Summary
Total Exam Duration: 5 Hours (2.5 Hours per Paper)
The UPSC NDA written examination is conducted over two sessions on a single day. Each paper—Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT)—is allotted 2.5 hours (150 minutes). In total, candidates are tested for 5 hours of examination time, excluding breaks between the two sessions.
The National Defence Academy (NDA) examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is a highly structured assessment designed to test both academic proficiency and general aptitude. The written component is split into two distinct papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT). Each paper is allocated exactly 150 minutes (2.5 hours).
It is essential for aspirants to understand that both papers are held on the same day. The Mathematics paper carries 300 marks, while the GAT paper carries 600 marks, totaling 900 marks for the written stage. Proper time management is critical, as the objective nature of the questions requires quick decision-making and accuracy. Candidates should practice under timed conditions to ensure they can navigate the 120 questions in the Mathematics section and the 150 questions in the GAT section within the stipulated time frames.
Please cross-check the official UPSC website and the current examination notification before finalizing your preparation strategy to ensure you are aware of any recent changes to the exam pattern.
Key Points for Students
- ✓Mathematics Paper: 2.5 Hours (150 Minutes)
- ✓General Ability Test (GAT): 2.5 Hours (150 Minutes)
- ✓Total Written Exam Duration: 5 Hours
According to the official UPSC notifications and institutional records, the NDA exam is a two-stage selection process. The written examination serves as the primary screening tool. Data from the 2026 examination cycle confirms that the pattern remains consistent, with the objective-type papers being conducted in two shifts. Candidates must strictly adhere to the reporting times mentioned on their admit cards, as entry is typically closed well before the commencement of the exam. The UPSC mandates that all candidates are familiar with the OMR-based answering system, which is part of the overall time management strategy. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding exam day protocols, always refer to the official UPSC 'Examination Notice' released for each cycle (NDA 1 or NDA 2) on the UPSC official portal.
Institutional Fee vs Placement ROI Matrix
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Quick Comparison
| Exam Component | Duration | Total Questions | Total Marks | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 150 Minutes | 120 | 300 | Moderate to High |
| General Ability Test | 150 Minutes | 150 | 600 | Moderate |
Step-by-Step Practical Decision Framework
Actionable steps to evaluate institutions before applying
1Step 1
Review Official Notification
Always download the official UPSC notification for the current year to verify the exact exam date and timing for your specific shift.
2Step 2
Simulated Practice Sessions
Use previous year question papers to conduct full-length mock tests, ensuring you complete 150 minutes of continuous work for each section.
3Step 3
Analyze Performance Metrics
Evaluate your accuracy vs. speed. Since there is negative marking, focus on high-confidence questions within the 2.5-hour window.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common student admission questions
Is the NDA exam conducted in one day?
Yes, both the Mathematics and GAT papers are conducted on the same day in two separate sessions.
Are there breaks between the two NDA papers?
Yes, there is a designated break between the first session (Mathematics) and the second session (GAT).
Does the NDA exam duration change every year?
The duration has remained consistent at 2.5 hours per paper for several years, but always check the latest UPSC notification to confirm.
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.