National Defence Academy Seats

Individuals who want to join the Indian Armed Forces must start their journey by securing one available seat. The National Defence Academy Seats require specialist knowledge because it proves vital for developing effective strategic preparation methods, which candidates need to master in their entrance exams. The competition is intense because the Army, Navy, and Air Force distribution of available seats creates specific cutoff points that determine how likely candidates from across the country will be chosen.

The National Defence Academy Seats provide important information for all male and female candidates who want to choose their service options while they complete their UPSC application process. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has established special vacancies for the 2026 session, which will create opportunities for young leaders to serve in three different military branches.

National Defence Academy Seats in 2026

The total intake for the 157th Course at NDA and the 119th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC) stands at 394 vacancies. These seats are divided not only by the branch of service but also by gender, as the academy continues its inclusive approach.

Vacancy Distribution by Service

Seats for Females in the NDA: A Growing Opportunity

The Supreme Court decision from 2021 established permanent National Defence Academy admission rules, which now include female candidates. The 2026 intake process will reserve 24 seats specifically for female applicants.

The limited number of seats available for female students represents an exceptional and prestigious opportunity. The military training program for female candidates includes the same training modules that male candidates use to prepare for combat and leadership roles in the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

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Service-Specific Seat Details in NDA

The National Defence Academy establishes distinct admission standards and capacity limits for each of its academic divisions. The process of selecting an optimal preference needs extreme importance:

The Army Wing (208 Seats)

The Army consistently offers the highest number of vacancies. The branch remains open to all students who complete Class 12 with Science, Commerce or Arts subjects.

The Navy Wing (42 Seats)

The Navy focuses on technical and executive branches. Only candidates with Physics and Mathematics in their 10+2 are eligible. The competition here becomes more difficult because the available seats are extremely limited.

The Air Force Wing (120 Total Seats)

The Air Force divides its available seats into three specific groups:

• Flying Branch: The most sought-after option requires candidates to meet stringent medical standards and achieve success in the CPSS (Computerised Pilot Selection System) evaluation.
• Ground Duty (Technical): The position targets individuals who have an engineering-oriented mindset.
• Ground Duty (Non-Technical): The position serves administrative functions while providing support to logistical operations.

Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme)

In addition to the core National Defence Academy Seats, the UPSC notification includes vacancies for the Indian Naval Academy (INA) at Ezhimala. This entry is specifically for the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme.

• Total Seats: 24
• Focus: Training specifically for the Navy from day one.
• Degree: Candidates earn a B.Tech degree during their four-year training.

Factors Influencing Seat Allocation

The seats that the UPSC notification declares will remain temporary until further notice. The final merit list will experience slight alterations due to multiple factors:

• Training Capacity: The academy will increase its student intake only when its facilities reach their maximum capacity.
• Medical Fitness: The medical board process leads to seat vacancies because many candidates who pass the written test and SSB process fail to meet its requirements.
• Service Requirements: The Ministry of Defence will modify its intake process according to the current officer needs of all three military branches.

Competition Ratio for NDA Seats 2026

With approximately 394 seats and over 4 to 6 lakh aspirants appearing for the exam every six months, the success rate is less than 0.1%. This makes NDA one of the toughest competitive exams in India.

• Written Cutoff: Usually ranges between 350–380 out of 900.
• Final Merit List: Often requires a total score (Written + SSB) of over 700 out of 1800.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the National Defence Academy Seats is the first step toward building a realistic preparation strategy. While the number of vacancies is limited, the reward is a life of unparalleled dignity and service to the nation. Focus on high-scoring areas in the GAT and Mathematics papers to ensure your name appears in the top 400.