UPSC NDA Age Limit 2026 — Check Your Eligibility by Category
The UPSC National Defence Academy (NDA) (2026) sets the age limit at 16.5–19 years for General category candidates, calculated as on 1 January 2026. Reserved categories receive relaxation: OBC candidates get 22 years, SC/ST candidates 24 years upper limit.
Category-Wise Age Limits
| Category | Min Age | Max Age | Relaxation |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 16.5 years | 19 years | - |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 16.5 years | 22 years | +3 yrs |
| SC / ST | 16.5 years | 24 years | +5 yrs |
💡 Enter your DOB to check if YOU are eligible for UPSC NDA 2026
Check Your Eligibility →Detailed Age Limit Information
📋 Age Criteria
- Minimum Age: 16.5 years
- Maximum Age (General): 19 years
- Age Calculation Date: 1 January 2026
- Conducting Body: Union Public Service Commission
🎯 Attempts Limit
- General: No limit
- OBC: No limit
- SC/ST: Unlimited
Age Relaxation Rules
Standard Relaxations
- OBC (NCL): 3 years relaxation
- SC/ST: 5 years relaxation
- PwD: 10 years relaxation
Important Notes
- • Relaxations are applied on the upper age limit only
- • Minimum age remains same for all categories
- • Cumulative relaxations apply for eligible candidates
- • Always verify with official notification
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the age limit for UPSC NDA 2026?
A: The UPSC NDA 2026 age limit is 16.5-19 years for General category candidates. Only unmarried male candidates can apply.
Q: What is the UPSC NDA age limit for OBC candidates?
A: OBC candidates get 3 years relaxation with a maximum age limit of 22 years for UPSC NDA 2026.
Q: What is the UPSC NDA age limit for SC/ST candidates?
A: SC/ST candidates get 5 years relaxation with a maximum age limit of 24 years for UPSC NDA 2026.
Q: How many attempts are allowed in UPSC NDA?
A: There is no attempt limit for UPSC NDA examination.
Q: On which date is age calculated for UPSC NDA?
A: Age is calculated as on 1st January of the examination year (01-01-2026 for NDA 2026).
Q: Can I apply for UPSC NDA if I am 19 years old?
A: Yes, if you are exactly 19 years old as on 1st January 2026, you are eligible for UPSC NDA under General category.
Q: What is the age relaxation for PwD in UPSC NDA?
A: There is no PwD reservation in UPSC NDA as physical fitness is mandatory for defence services.
Q: What is the minimum age for UPSC NDA?
A: The minimum age for UPSC NDA is 16.5 years (must have passed 10+2) as on 1st January 2026.
Ready to Check Your Eligibility?
Use our Age Calculator for a personalised eligibility verdict and see if you qualify for UPSC NDA 2026
Try the Age Calculator →Age limits are based on the 2026 official notification released by Union Public Service Commission. Last verified: 2026-02-04. Always check the official notification at Union Public Service Commission website