5 Key Steps to Join

Introduction

Each year, over 4-5 lakh candidates aspire to join the Indian Defence Forces through the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam, but only 300-350 candidates make the cut. It takes grit, perseverance, and the ability to set long-term strategies and practice daily to crack the test and gain admittance into the Indian Armed Forces. For aspiring young individuals, a career in defence is more than just a job; it’s a call to serve the nation. If you’re ready to embrace the challenge, excelling in the right defence exams is your first step toward a noble and prestigious career in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.

The NDA is a training academy that prepares candidates to become officers. Once their training is complete, they enter the Indian Defence Forces, where they officially begin their service. In this blog, we will cover the top 5 defence exams in India and share insights on NDA coaching in India to help you prepare effectively.

 

1. National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam 2025

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is an all-India defence entrance exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It is among the most prestigious exams for those aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. The exam includes subjects like Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge.

Eligibility for NDA:

• Age Limit: 16.5 to 19.5 years.
• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed Class 12 with any stream for the Army; for the Navy and Air Force, candidates must have studied Physics and Mathematics.
• Citizenship: Indian citizens, citizens of Nepal or Bhutan.

2. Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam

UPSC conducts the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam for graduates who wish to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. The exam tests candidates in English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.

Eligibility for CDS:

• Age Limit: 19 to 24 years for the Army and 19 to 23 years for the Navy and Air Force.
• Educational Qualification: A graduate degree from a recognised university, and candidates must have studied Science in their Navy and Air Force undergraduate course. 

3. Indian Navy Entrance Exam (INET)

The Indian Navy Entrance Exam (INET) is another entrance exam for those wishing to join the Indian Navy. The exam evaluates English, Reasoning, General Knowledge, and Mathematics knowledge.

Eligibility for INET:

• Age Limit: 19 to 24 years.
• Educational Qualification: A B.Tech or BE degree for technical branches; a graduate degree in any field for non-technical branches.

4. Indian Air Force Airmen Group X & Y Exam

The Indian Air Force Airmen Group X & Y Exam recruits candidates for technical and nontechnical roles in the Indian Air Force. The exam includes General Knowledge, English, Reasoning, and Mathematics.

Eligibility for IAF Airmen:

• Age Limit: 17 to 21 years.
• Educational Qualification: For Group X (Technical), candidates must have studied Physics and Mathematics in Class 12. For Group Y (Non-Technical), candidates must have completed Class 12 in any stream.

5. Territorial Army (TA) Exam

The Territorial Army (TA) exam allows individuals to serve part-time in the Indian Army while maintaining civilian careers. The exam includes a written test, an interview, and a medical examination.

Eligibility for TA:

• Age Limit: 18 to 42 years.
• Educational Qualification: Graduation from a recognised university.
  

 

Top NDA Coaching Centres in India

There are many reasons to join the National Defence Forces, from the honour of serving the nation to building a rewarding career. Enrolling in the best NDA coaching in India can provide comprehensive training to aspirants through structured courses and mock test practice. This is where you can get the top NDA coaching in India:

1.  Disha Academy

The Disha Academy is housed in Delhi. It is most recognised by its experienced faculty and structured schedules that offer coaching to students excelling in NDA exam preparation. It is one of the top 5 NDA coaching in India due to its focus on written exams and physical tests.

2.  Minerva Academy

Minerva Academy in Punjab is known for its expert faculty, well-structured mock tests, and rigorous SSB interview training. Its result-oriented approach makes it the best NDA coaching in India after 12th.

3.  Olive Greens Academy

With campuses in Chandigarh and Delhi, Olive Greens Academy is a reputed name for NDA coaching. Its structured curriculum focuses on Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge, making it a preferred choice for students looking for the best NDA coaching in India after 10th.

4.  Cavalier India

Cavalier India, located in Bangalore, Delhi, and Hyderabad, is a trusted name for defence exams in India. With experienced mentors and well-designed study programmes, it ensures a high success rate in both written and SSB exams.

5.  Bulls Eye (Pune)

Bulls Eye is known for its online and offline resources and offers comprehensive coaching that helps students efficiently prepare for the NDA exam. They also help students with interview preparations and physical training.

6.  Defence Career Academy

Defence Career Academy in Lucknow offers an integrated coaching program covering academic and physical preparation for defence exams in India.

7.  Aakash Institute

Aakash Institute is present across multiple cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. It is known for its structured coaching programs, expert faculty, and strong track record, making it one of India’s best NDA coaching.

8.  Doon Defence Academy

Doon Defence Academy in Dehradun offers comprehensive training for NDA, CDSE, and other defence exams. This academy ensures well-rounded preparation with expert faculty, fitness training, and guidance for written exams and interviews.

9.  Brigadier Defence Academy

The Brigadier Defence Academy, located in Dehradun, is a fast-growing institute for defence exams in India, especially NDA preparation. It offers expert guidance to aspiring candidates with experienced ex-defence mentors, modern classrooms, and comprehensive training.

10.  Tara Institute

Tara Institute, with centres in Delhi, Mumbai, and other key cities, offers NDA coaching with both online and offline training. It provides chapter-wise test series, study materials in Hindi and English, and recorded sessions to support flexible learning.

 

Conclusion

With millions of applicants showing up for defence exams in India annually, competition is intense—but the reward of serving the nation is like none other. Appropriate preparation, professional guidance, and a strategic study plan will enable you to stand out. Aim for one of the top 10 NDA colleges in India to get a solid foundation for a successful career in defense services. Are you ready to take the first step towards serving the nation? Start learning more about the Indian Defence Forces on Mindler’s blog.