The NDA exam is one of the most reputed competitive exam in India for applicants who dream of becoming an officer in the Indian Army, Navy or Air Force in India. The UPSC conducts this exam. Applicants for the NDA examination should meet certain eligibility criteria – one of the maximum common questions: How many marks are required in 12th to appear for NDA Exam?
This blog post will provide you with clear and accurate information regarding the 12th class marks requirement for NDA, along with related details like eligibility criteria, stream requirements, and preparation tips.

NDA Exam Eligibility: Class 12th Marks Requirement
The UPSC NDA eligibility criteria do not specify a minimum percentage of marks in Class 12th. Instead, the requirement is based on subjects studied in Class 12th:
- For Army Wing of NDA
Candidates ought to have handed 12th or equivalent examination from a desired board, irrespective of streams (Science, Commerce, or Arts). - For Air Force & Naval Wing of NDA and 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at Naval Academy
Candidates need to pass 12th with Physics and Mathematics as obligatory subjects.
- Key Point: There isn’t any minimum percentage required in 12th for the desire inside the NDA examination. Even if you skip with only minimal marks (consistent with the board’s surpassed criteria), you are eligible to apply, provided you meet the subject requirement.
Important Clarification on 12th Marks
Many candidates believe that they need 60% or more in 12th grade. To apply for NDA. This is a misunderstanding. UPSC handily desires to skip 12th, no longer to get a particular percentage. However:
- High marks in Mathematics and Science may additionally help in conceptual readability that is essential for NDA guidance.
- Performance within the written examination (Mathematics + GAT) and the SSB Interview ultimately decides selection.
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Selection Process After 12th
- NDA Written Exam – Mathematics (300 marks) + GAT (600 marks).
- SSB Interview – Psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interview (900 marks).
- Medical Examination – To check physical and mental fitness.
Thus, your 12th marks do not affect your NDA selection. What subjects are about how properly you perform in the UPSC NDA written exam and SSB interview?
Tips for NDA Aspirants in Class 12th
- Focus on Physics & Mathematics – If aiming for Air Force or Navy, strengthen PCM basics.
- Improve General Knowledge & English – Read newspapers, defense updates, and NCERT books.
- Start NDA-specific preparation early – Solve previous year papers and mock tests.
- Maintain fitness – Physical standards are crucial for clearing the medical round.
Final Answer
To apply for NDA, you simply need to pass 12th with the required subjects (any stream for Army, PCM for Air Force & Navy). Your percentage does not matter – selection depends on NDA written exam, SSB, and medical fitness.
FAQs about marks needed in 12th for NDA
Ans. No fixed percentage is required; only a pass in 12th is necessary.
Ans. Yes, they are qualified as long as they passed.
Ans. No, only for Air Force and Navy wings.
Ans. You must clear all subjects to be eligible.
Ans. No, selection is based on the NDA written test and SSB, not 12th percentage.
Ans. Yes, for Army wing, commerce students are eligible.
Ans. No direct effect, but strong basics help in the written exam.
Ans. No, performance in SSB matters, not school marks.
Ans. Yes, as long as they have officially passed.
Ans. No, only NDA exam and SSB performance decide merit.