NDA 2026 Eligibility Criteria, Height & Weight Requirements

The National Defence Academy (NDA) 2026 is one of the most prestigious defence training programs in India, preparing candidates for careers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Aspiring candidates need to meet specific eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications, age limits, nationality requirements, and physical standards, to qualify for the NDA examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Understanding these eligibility norms is crucial to ensure a smooth application process and successful selection.

1. Educational Qualification

For NDA 2026, the educational requirements vary depending on the wing a candidate is applying for:

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  Indian Army: Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.

  
  


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  Indian Navy & Air Force: Candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.

  
  

These qualifications ensure that candidates possess the fundamental knowledge required for technical and leadership roles in the armed forces.

2. Age Criteria

The age limit for NDA 2026 is strict and must be adhered to:

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  Candidates must be between 16.5 years and 19.5 years on the date specified by UPSC in the official notification.

  
  


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  Any candidate born before or after the specified date will be disqualified from appearing in the examination.

  
  

This age range ensures that candidates are at the right stage of physical and mental development to undergo the rigorous training at the academy.

3. Nationality

Applicants for NDA 2026 must be:

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  Citizens of India, or

  
  


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  Subjects of Nepal or Bhutan, or

  
  


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  Tibetan refugees who arrived in India before 1st January 1962 with the intention of permanent settlement, or

  
  


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  Persons of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Burma, East African countries, etc.

  
  

Candidates must provide valid proof of nationality during the selection process.

4. Physical Standards: Height & Weight

Physical fitness is a key requirement for NDA 2026, and the academy maintains strict standards for height and weight:

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  Height: Minimum height for Army candidates is usually 157.5 cm, while for Navy and Air Force, it is 162.5 cm.

  
  


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  Weight: Weight must be proportionate to the candidate’s height. UPSC provides a detailed chart to ensure candidates meet the ideal Body Mass Index (BMI) standards.

  
  

Other physical requirements include good vision, normal chest measurements, and no major physical deformities, ensuring candidates can withstand the demanding training regimen.

5. Medical Fitness

Candidates must clear a medical examination conducted at the Services Selection Board (SSB). This includes:

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  Vision and hearing tests

  
  


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  Chest and heart examination

  
  


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  General physical assessment

  
  

Any candidate with medical conditions that may hinder training or duty performance may be disqualified.

Conclusion

Meeting the NDA 2026 eligibility, height, and weight criteria is the first essential step toward a career in India’s armed forces. Aspirants must ensure they fulfill all educational, age, nationality, and physical standards before applying. Regular physical training, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and understanding the selection requirements are crucial to successfully clearing the NDA exam and joining the elite ranks of the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.

Contact:

web:www.manasadefenceacademy.com