The National Defence Academy exam is viewed to be one of the most sought-after Australian competitive exams as it is extremely difficult. The National Defence Academy is usually applied for by several candidates every year, but only a limited handful of them are able to come out successful. But what is it that sets the NDA exam apart and is extremely difficult? Let’s explore the contributing factors and challenges that make the NDA exam so tough and how candidates can overcome them.
1. The NDA Examination is Extremely Competitive
The NDA exam is commonly touted as one of the toughest examinations out there. The major factor for such a claim is the overwhelming number of individuals who take part in this exam. Last year alone, there were over a million prospective candidates with only hundreds securing a seat in the NDA. So naturally, the competition is sky-high and individuals need to put in the effort to ensure that they outperform their counterparts.

2. Breadth of Topics Formed in NDA Syllabus
Consider this – the NDA exam incorporates three different subjects mathematics, general ability, and English. Out of all these the hardest or more commonly the most peculiar is Mathematics since it tends to go beyond the basic school curriculum. Unlike typical school standards, the syllabus of NDA is far broader and more complex.
3. Time Management While Attempting NDA
It’s futile to have exceptional knowledge if you don’t possess the skill to manage time. Remember you have only two hours or less to solve 120 math questions and approximately 150 general ability questions. Effectively balancing time with the amount of questions you have to solve can prove to be difficult during the NDA exam.
4. Evaluation of Various Skills
Any students from different disciplines hoping to excel in their NCC exam will require in-depth knowledge of a variety of subjects besides the typical theoretical subjects. These subjects encompass any history, geography, or even current affairs. Hence, candidates must develop a holistic approach to prepare well for the exam.
5. Stringent Qualifying Criteria
In order to get qualified for the interview round, candidates first have to work their way through the exam and the mock interview. The parameters set by the NDA candidates are rather rigid, as a result only the fittest and healthiest applicants are chosen.
6. Difficulties in the interview with SSB
The first stage of the process is getting qualified for the written exam and which is a prerequisite in order to give the SSB interview where one is evaluated psychologically, physically, and also with respect to their leadership capabilities. This test is known for being bleak when it comes to one’s personality assessment and all of it is conducted over the period of five days.
7. Commitment and Focus
For one to be fully prepared for the NDA exam, there needs to be a certain sense of discipline and dedication alongside consistency. Physical training and academic goals don’t always mesh well together and often lead to anxiety and panic.
Overcoming the Hurdles
Develop a detailed timetable: Split the course into smaller parts and have daily study targets that are achievable.
Simulated Exams: You should comparatively work harder in sections where you are weak. Attempt mock examinations to run the self-assessment course. This method would involve a lot of practice in past exam papers.
Add a Fitness Regimen: Incorporate physical training into your day-to-day activities in order to reach the required fitness levels.
Keep Track of International Events: Get involved with the news by reading the papers and magazines frequently.
Help Yourself: There are courses that can help you prepare for both the written part of the exams as well as the SSB part in a more structured way, do consider taking them.



Conclusion:
The NDA exam is probably one of the most difficult ones, however with the right type of planning and forethought, its requirements can easily be met. Whether it’s getting through a thick syllabus or getting through the SSB interview, that makes the NDA Exam so tough. Joining the National Defence Academy, NDA, is no easy feat. The rewards are there, tough as the path is.
FAQs about What makes the NDA exam so tough?
The most difficult segments of the NDA exam can vary for each contestant. However, a number of students often point out Maths and SSB interview as the most difficult sections.
To perform well in the NDA exam ensure to Understand the maths concepts, stay abreast with the current affairs as well as take extensive, rigorous mock tests on a regular basis to work on your time management.
Definitely! Once the written exam is cleared, candidates are required to meet the prescribed physical and medical standards.
Yes, they can! However, those who are weak in mathematics will struggle with the maths component. More effort is necessary to prepare for this topic.
Disciples are vital in traversing any deep syllabus structure while keeping in check the need to exercise during preparation time.