NDA 2026 Attempt Rules
How many times can you give NDA? There is no fixed limit. Your age decides everything. Here are the official UPSC rules for the 2026 cycle.
Attempt Limit: The Reality
Many students believe there is a fixed limit like 4 or 6 attempts. That is wrong.
UPSC does not cap the number of NDA attempts. What matters is your age — if you are in the valid range, you can appear. That is the only rule.
Official Rule
"A candidate must be between 16.5 and 19.5 years on the first day of the month when the course commences."
How Many Attempts Do I Get?
Most candidates get between 4 and 6 attempts depending on their date of birth. Since the NDA exam is conducted twice a year (NDA I in April and NDA II in September), your eligibility window usually spans 3 years.
Important Dates for 2026
NDA I 2026
12 April
Exam Date
NDA II 2026
13 Sept
Exam Date
Attempt Rules FAQ
Can I apply if I am in 11th standard?
No, you must be in 12th or have passed 12th to apply for NDA.
Is there attempt relaxation for OBC/SC/ST?
No, the attempt rules and age limit are the same for all categories.
Does a failed attempt count?
Every time you fill the form and appear for the exam, it counts as an attempt within your age window.