NDA Exam Syllabus 2026 Maths & GAT Guide

The NDA curriculum is based on the concepts prescribed in Classes 11 and 12 and primarily includes Mathematics, English, Science, Social Studies, and Current Affairs. A thorough understanding of concepts, analytical abilities, and time management are of paramount importance. With the syllabus remaining more or less the same in every examination, aspiring candidates can prepare based on the guidelines mentioned in the official UPSC notification and previous years' question papers.

The UPSC officially notified that the NDA syllabus is segregated into two written papers:

• Paper I: Mathematics: 300 Marks
• Paper II: General Ability Test (GAT): 600 Marks

The Maths paper tests the candidate's mathematical knowledge and ability to solve questions. Whereas, GAT tests the knowledge in the English language, scientific subjects, general awareness, and current affairs.

The written test consists of 900 marks, and the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview consists of 900 marks. Merit lists are drawn from both sets of marks.

The UPSC examination pattern remains the same for NDA 1 and NDA 2. UPSC conducts an offline written test in an objective-type MCQ pattern. Students must use speed and accuracy equally, since guessing the wrong answer repeatedly may considerably lower their grades.

• Two written papers
• Duration of 2½ hours for each paper
• Negative marking for every incorrect answer
• Questions available in both English and Hindi (except the English section)

The mathematics paper covers more or less the same topics as covered in the CBSE class XI and XII syllabus. UPSC checks understanding of concepts more than long calculations. Questions usually fall in the moderate to difficult category and need speed as well as accuracy.

Algebra is the basis of the NDA Mathematics Paper and contains a considerable number of questions every year. Important topics include:

• Sets and Venn diagrams
• Relations and functions
• Complex numbers
• Quadratic equations
• Logarithms
• Arithmetic, Geometric, and Harmonic Progressions
• Binomial theorem
• Permutations and combinations

Questions generally test basic matrix operations and solving linear equations. Key topics include:

• Types of matrices
• Matrix operations
• Determinants
• Adjoint and inverse
• Properties of determinants
• Solution of simultaneous linear equations using matrices

Trigonometry remains one of the highest-scoring sections if formulas are thoroughly revised. Topics include:

• Angles
• Trigonometric ratios
• Identities
• Compound angles
• Multiple and sub-multiple angles
• Inverse trigonometric functions
• Properties of triangles
• Heights and distances

Geometry questions evaluate spatial visualization and coordinate geometry concepts. Major areas include:

• Cartesian coordinates
• Straight lines
• Distance formula
• Pair of lines
• Circle
• Parabola
• Ellipse
• Hyperbola
• Three-dimensional geometry
• Direction ratios and direction cosines

Candidates should understand both theoretical concepts and practical applications. Topics include:

• Functions
• Limits
• Continuity
• Differentiability
• Derivatives
• Maxima and minima
• Increasing and decreasing functions
• Applications of derivatives

Integration questions are generally formula-based but require extensive practice. Topics covered include:

• Indefinite integration
• Definite integration
• Area under curves
• Differential equations
• First-order differential equations
• Formation and solution of simple equations

Vector Algebra is comparatively smaller but often yields direct questions. Topics include:

• Vectors
• Magnitude
• Unit vectors
• Scalar product
• Vector product
• Projection
• Applications in geometry

This section requires an understanding of basic statistical concepts and probability rules. Topics include:

• Frequency distribution
• Mean
• Median
• Mode
• Standard deviation
• Variance
• Probability
• Independent and dependent events
• Conditional probability

The General Ability Test carries 600 marks, making it the highest-scoring paper in the NDA written examination. Since the GAT paper involves many sections, you will also require a prepared, balanced study approach towards all subjects. It is divided into:

• English - 200 Marks
• General Knowledge - 400 Marks

The English section evaluates grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. Regular newspaper reading and vocabulary practice can significantly improve scores. Major topics include:

• Grammar
• Sentence improvement
• Vocabulary
• Synonyms
• Antonyms
• Idioms
• Spotting errors
• Reading comprehension
• Sentence arrangement

• Motion
• Force
• Work and Energy
• Heat
• Electricity
• Magnetism
• Optics
• Sound
• Modern Physics

Candidates should prepare:

• Physical Chemistry
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Acids and Bases
• Metals
• Non-metals
• Atomic Structure

Important topics include:

• Human body
• Nutrition
• Diseases
• Environment
• Ecosystem
• Biotechnology
• Everyday science

Coverage includes:

• Ancient India
• Medieval India
• Modern India
• Indian National Movement
• Constitution basics
• Important historical personalities

Prepare:

• Physical Geography
• Indian Geography
• Climate
• Rivers
• Agriculture
• Natural Resources
• Population
• Economic Geography

Questions are generally asked about recent national and international developments, including:

• Defence exercises
• Government schemes
• Awards
• Sports
• Science & Technology
• International relations
• Space missions
• Important appointments

Even though GAT is twice the weightage in Marks than that of mathematics. But both papers carry equal importance for candidates to secure good marks overall and to pass the written examination.

An ambitious candidate with a mathematical inclination must use the Maths part for the highest marks. A student who prepares thoroughly for all three subjects, English, Science, and General Knowledge, can maximize the marks on the GAT test.

Yes. The same official UPSC NDA exam syllabus is applied for the NDA 1 and NDA 2 exams conducted in one calendar year. No difference in the mathematics syllabus and the GAT syllabus in the two sessions. Obviously, the current affairs syllabus gets changed in relation to the contemporary events nationally and internationally up to the date of the exam.

A systematic study plan will enable candidates to cover the vast syllabus without feeling anxious. During the last couple of months before the exam, try to emphasize revision, a formulae sheet, mock exams and mistakes analysis.

• Mathematics: 2to3 hours of concept learning and problem solving
• English: 45 to 60 minutes of grammar and vocabulary practice
• General Knowledge: 2hours covering Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, and General Science
• Current Affairs: 30 to 45 minutes of newspaper reading and monthly revision
• Previous Year Questions: Practice daily to understand question trends
• Weekly Mock Test: Evaluate speed, accuracy, and time management

Candidates should always refer to the official UPSC notification for the latest syllabus and examination details. To download the syllabus:

1. Visit the official UPSC website.
2. Open the NDA & NA Examination notification for the relevant session.
3. Download the notification PDF.
4. Navigate to the syllabus section containing the detailed Mathematics and GAT topics.
5. Save the PDF for offline reference throughout your preparation.