NDA 2026 eligibility is defined by a narrow age window and wing-specific academic stream requirements. Since females became eligible in 2022, both male and female candidates can now apply. No age relaxation is available for any category.
Nationality
Candidates must be a citizen of India, or a subject of Bhutan or Nepal, or a Tibetan refugee settled in India before 01-01-1962. A Government of India eligibility certificate is required for non-Indian citizens.
Age Limit
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 16.5 years |
| Maximum Age | 19.5 years |
| Age Relaxation | None (applies uniformly to all categories including SC/ST/OBC) |
| Cut-off Date | As on the first day of the month of course commencement (specified in notification) |
Wing-Wise Educational Qualification
| Wing | Minimum Qualification | Stream Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Army Wing (NDA) | Class 12 Pass / Appearing | Any stream (Science, Commerce, Arts) |
| Navy Wing (NDA) | Class 12 Pass / Appearing | Physics and Mathematics compulsory at Class 12 |
| Air Force Wing (NDA) | Class 12 Pass / Appearing | Physics and Mathematics compulsory at Class 12 |
| Indian Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry) | Class 12 Pass / Appearing | Physics and Mathematics compulsory at Class 12 |
Marital Status & Physical Standards
- Candidates must be unmarried at the time of commencement of training
- Minimum height: 157 cm (male); 152 cm (female)
- Weight and chest: As per standards in official notification
- Eyesight: Specific visual acuity requirements; Air Force has the strictest vision standards (near-perfect uncorrected vision often required for pilot entry)
- No colour blindness or major orthopaedic issues