With the NDA 1 2026 written exam concluded, the biggest question on every aspirant’s mind is: “What will be the cut-off this year?” Predicting the cut-off requires a deep dive into the difficulty level of the Mathematics and GAT (General Ability Test) papers, the number of vacancies, and the performance of candidates nationwide.
Sectional Cut-off vs. Overall Cut-off
To qualify for the SSB Interview, candidates must clear two hurdles:
- Sectional Cut-off: Historically, UPSC mandates a minimum of 25% in each subject (Maths and GAT).
- Overall Cut-off: The aggregate score out of 900 marks.
NDA 1 2026 Paper Difficulty Analysis
- Mathematics: This year’s paper was rated Moderate to Difficult. While Calculus and Trigonometry remained standard, the weightage of Statistics and Probability required higher analytical skills.
- GAT: The English section was relatively Easy to Moderate, but the General Science and Social Studies portions (History and Geography) were quite comprehensive, leaning towards a moderate difficulty level.
Predicted Cut-off Marks (Written Exam)
Based on current student feedback and the difficulty curve, the expected written cut-off for NDA 1 2026 is likely to range between 350 and 365 marks out of 900.
| Category | Expected Written Cut-off (Out of 900) |
| Army/Navy/Air Force | 355 ± 10 |
Factors That Might Influence the Cut-off
- Number of Applicants: A slight increase in the number of female candidates applying for the 2026 cycle may impact the competitive landscape.
- Total Vacancies: Approximately 400 vacancies are expected to be filled, maintaining a consistent ratio compared to previous years.
- Negative Marking: Since 1/3rd of the marks are deducted for wrong answers, candidates who maintained high accuracy despite the tough Mathematics paper will have a significant edge.
Conclusion
If your calculated score (using the unofficial answer keys) is above 360, you should not wait for the official results to start your SSB preparation. Focus on your physical fitness and current affairs immediately!
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