What Is the Total Marks for NDA? Exam Pattern & Scoring Guide
KF
Team Kampus Filter
Student College Research Team
Updated: September 20262 min read
Quick Summary
Total Marks: 1800 | Written: 900 | SSB: 900
The total marks for the National Defence Academy (NDA) examination is 1800. This is divided equally into two stages: the Written Examination, which carries 900 marks, and the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview, which also carries 900 marks. Candidates must qualify in both stages to be considered for final selection.
The written examination is the first hurdle for aspirants and is conducted by the UPSC. It is designed to test a candidate's proficiency in Mathematics and General Ability. The written component is worth 900 marks in total. The Mathematics paper is typically worth 300 marks, while the General Ability Test (GAT) accounts for 600 marks. It is important to note that the GAT is further subdivided into English and General Knowledge sections. Aspirants should focus on time management, as the exam is objective-based. While there is no negative marking for unanswered questions, incorrect answers in the objective sections do attract negative marking. Always refer to the latest UPSC notification for specific subject-wise weightage and updated marking schemes for the current academic session.
Key Points for Students
- ✓Mathematics: 300 Marks
- ✓General Ability Test (GAT): 600 Marks
- ✓Total Written Marks: 900
Once a candidate clears the written cutoff, they proceed to the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which is a comprehensive personality and intelligence assessment. The SSB interview carries 900 marks, mirroring the weightage of the written exam. This stage evaluates a candidate's officer-like qualities (OLQs) through various psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. According to official UPSC guidelines and institutional records, the SSB process is conducted over several days to assess leadership, physical fitness, and mental acuity. Because this stage is highly subjective and performance-based, candidates are encouraged to prepare holistically rather than focusing solely on rote learning. Always cross-check the official UPSC website for the most recent updates on the interview process and documentation requirements.
NDA Exam Scoring & Eligibility Overview
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Quick Comparison
| Exam Stage | Total Marks | Weightage | Focus Area | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Exam | 900 | 50% | Maths & GAT | Qualifying |
| SSB Interview | 900 | 50% | Personality & OLQs | Final Selection |
Verified Fee Benchmarks: Figures reflect audited notifications and semester schedules.Source: Official Circulars & Mandatory Disclosures
Step-by-Step Practical Decision Framework
Actionable steps to evaluate institutions before applying
1Step 1
Review Official Notification
Always download the latest UPSC NDA notification from the official website to confirm current exam dates and eligibility.
2Step 2
Understand Subject Weightage
Analyze the syllabus to prioritize high-scoring topics in Mathematics and GAT to secure a strong position in the written merit list.
3Step 3
Prepare for SSB Early
Since the SSB accounts for 50% of the total marks, start developing leadership skills and physical fitness well before the written results are declared.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common student admission questions
Is there negative marking in the NDA written exam?
Yes, there is negative marking for incorrect answers in the objective-type questions of the NDA written exam. However, no marks are deducted for questions that are left unanswered.
Are female candidates eligible for the NDA exam?
Yes, unmarried female candidates are eligible to apply for the NDA exam, provided they meet the age and educational criteria specified in the official UPSC notification.
What is the application fee for the NDA exam?
The application fee is approximately ₹100 for General category candidates. SC/ST candidates, female candidates, and wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs are typically exempted from the fee payment.
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.