For aspirants setting their sights on joining the National Defence Academy (NDA) through the NDA 2 2025 examination, a thorough understanding of the exam pattern is the bedrock of effective preparation. Knowing the structure, subjects, marking scheme, and time allocation will enable you to strategize your study approach and maximize your performance on the day of the exam. Let’s dissect the NDA 2 2025 exam pattern to give you a clear picture.
The Two Pillars of the NDA Exam:
The NDA selection process involves two main stages:
- Written Examination: This is the first stage and comprises two separate papers.
- SSB Interview (Services Selection Board): Candidates who qualify in the written examination proceed to this stage.
Our focus here is on understanding the structure of the Written Examination for NDA 2 2025.
Paper I: Mathematics
- Subject: Mathematics
- Type of Questions: Objective Type (Multiple Choice Questions – MCQs)
- Maximum Marks: 300
- Number of Questions: Typically 120
- Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Key Areas Covered: Algebra, Matrices and Determinants, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus and Differential Equations, Vector Algebra, Statistics and Probability.

Key Takeaways for Mathematics:
- This paper tests your fundamental mathematical concepts and problem-solving abilities up to the Class 12th level.
- Accuracy and speed are crucial due to the limited time and the number of questions.
- A strong foundation in basic concepts is essential to tackle the MCQs effectively.
Paper II: General Ability Test (GAT)
This paper is further divided into two parts:
- Part A: English
- Subject: English
- Type of Questions: Objective Type (MCQs)
- Maximum Marks: 200
- Number of Questions: Typically 50
- Duration: Part of the overall 2 hours and 30 minutes for GAT.
- Key Areas Covered: Grammar and Usage, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Cohesion.
- Part B: General Knowledge
- Subject: General Knowledge
- Type of Questions: Objective Type (MCQs)
- Maximum Marks: 400
- Number of Questions: Typically 100
- Duration: Part of the overall 2 hours and 30 minutes for GAT.
- Key Areas Covered: Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History of India and World, Geography, Current Events.
Key Takeaways for General Ability Test (GAT):
- This paper assesses your understanding of English language skills and your general awareness across various subjects.
- Effective reading and comprehension skills are vital for the English section.
- For General Knowledge, a broad understanding of fundamental concepts and staying updated with current events is important.
Overall Exam Structure:
- Total Marks for Written Examination: 300 (Mathematics) + 600 (GAT) = 900 marks.
- Negative Marking: There is a penalty for incorrect answers in both Mathematics and GAT papers. Typically, 1/3rd of the marks allotted to a question are deducted for each wrong answer.
- Importance of Time Management: With a fixed duration for each paper and a significant number of questions, effective time management is crucial. Practice solving questions within the stipulated time during your preparation.
Strategizing Your Preparation Based on the Pattern:
- Mathematics: Focus on building a strong conceptual understanding and practice solving a wide variety of MCQs. Pay attention to speed and accuracy.
- English: Improve your grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension skills through regular practice.
- General Knowledge: Develop a strategy to cover the vast syllabus effectively. Focus on understanding fundamental concepts and staying updated with current affairs.
Understanding the NDA 2 2025 exam pattern inside out is the first step towards formulating a successful preparation strategy. By knowing the structure, marking scheme, and time allocation, you can tailor your studies to maximize your strengths and work on your weaknesses effectively. Stay focused and strategize your preparation according to this blueprint to enhance your chances of clearing the written examination.
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