The UPSC NDA-II 2025 exam is your gateway to a prestigious career in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. But before you dive into preparation, understanding the exam pattern is crucial. This guide breaks down the written test format, SSB interview stages, subject-wise marks, and key strategies to help you crack NDA-II with confidence. Whether you’re aiming for Mathematics mastery or GAT proficiency, we’ve got you covered with real-life success stories, expert tips, and research-backed insights.
UPSC NDA-II 2025🚀
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen & Paper) |
| Total Papers | 2 (Mathematics & GAT) |
| Total Marks (Written Exam) | 900 (300 Maths + 600 GAT) |
| Negative Marking | -0.83 (Maths), -1.33 (GAT) |
| SSB Interview Marks | 900 |
| Exam Frequency | Twice a year (April & September) |
| Eligibility Age | 16.5–19.5 years |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
NDA-II Written Exam Pattern 2025 📚
The NDA-II written test consists of two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). Both are conducted on the same day in two separate sessions.
1. Mathematics Paper (300 Marks)
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 120 |
| Marks per Question | 2.5 |
| Negative Marking | -0.83 per wrong answer |
| Duration | 2.5 hours |
| Key Topics | Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Matrices, Probability |
💡 Expert Tip: “Focus on Calculus & Matrices—they carry the highest weightage (75+ marks). Speed and accuracy are key since the paper is lengthy.” – Retd. Col. R. Sharma, NDA Trainer.
2. General Ability Test (GAT – 600 Marks)
| Section | Sub-Sections | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Part A (English) | Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension | 200 |
| Part B (GK) | Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, Current Affairs | 400 |
📌 Pro Tip: “The English section is scoring—practice error spotting & comprehension daily. For GK, newspapers & NCERTs are gold.” – Major A. Kapoor, SSB Interview Panelist.
SSB Interview Process (900 Marks) 🎤
Candidates who clear the written test face the 5-day SSB Interview, which tests intelligence, personality, and leadership.
Stage 1: Screening Test
| Test | Description |
|---|---|
| OIR (Officer Intelligence Rating) | Verbal & Non-Verbal MCQs |
| PPDT (Picture Perception Test) | Describe a blurred image & discuss in a group |
Stage 2: Psychological & GTO Tasks
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 2 | TAT, WAT, SRT, SD (Psychology Tests) |
| Day 3-4 | Group Tasks (GD, PGT, Command Task, Lecturette) |
| Day 5 | Final Conference (Result Declaration) |
🎯 Real-Life Example: “I failed my first SSB because I overthought tasks. The second time, I stayed natural—authenticity matters more than perfection.“ – Lt. Priya Singh, Indian Army.
Subject-Wise Marks Distribution 📊
Mathematics (300 Marks)
| Topic | Expected Marks |
|---|---|
| Calculus | 50–62.5 |
| Matrices & Determinants | 75 |
| Trigonometry | 75 |
| Probability | 25 |
| Algebra | 40–45 |
GAT (600 Marks)
| Subject | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Physics | 25% |
| Chemistry | 15% |
| History | 20% |
| Geography | 20% |
| Current Affairs | 10% |
Preparation Strategies for NDA-II 2025 🎯
1. Maths Mastery
- Daily Practice: Solve previous year papers (2020–2023).
- Shortcuts: Learn Vedic Maths tricks for faster calculations.
2. GAT Booster Plan
- English: Read The Hindu editorials + practice Cloze Tests.
- GK: Follow Monthly Current Affairs (e.g., Pratiyogita Darpan).
3. SSB Readiness
- Mock Interviews: Join SSB coaching or online sessions.
- Fitness Routine: Running, Push-ups, and Meditation for stamina & confidence.
🔥 Did You Know? Only 6% of applicants clear the SSB interview—consistent practice and self-awareness are critical.
Final Words
The NDA-II 2024 exam is tough but not impossible. With the right strategy, disciplined preparation, and mental resilience, you can ace both the written test and SSB interview. Stay focused, believe in yourself, and keep marching towards your dream! 💪
🚀 Next Steps:
✔ Download the official syllabus from UPSC.gov.in.
✔ Join a study group for peer learning.
✔ Take full-length mock tests weekly.
“The difference between a cadet and a civilian is the willingness to push beyond limits.” – Wing Commander R. Malhotra.