NDA Exam Syllabus 2026: Maths & GAT (English, Physics, Chemistry, GK)
The Story of a Student Who Studied the Wrong Syllabus
Let me tell you about Praveen from Madurai.
Praveen was a bright student. He scored 92% in his 12th standard. He was confident he would crack the NDA exam on his first attempt.
He studied for 8 months. Hard. Day and night.
But when he opened the NDA question paper, his heart sank.
Questions on Calculus – he had only studied Algebra.
Questions on Modern Physics – he had skipped it, thinking it was “too hard.”
Questions on World Geography – he had focused only on Indian Geography.
Praveen failed. Not because he was not smart. Because he studied the wrong syllabus.
Don’t be Praveen.
The nda exam syllabus 2026 is clearly defined by UPSC. You just need to know exactly what to study – and what to ignore.
Today, I am going to break down the entire nda gat syllabus, nda maths syllabus, and nda english syllabus topic by topic.
I will tell you:
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Which topics have the highest weightage
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Which topics you can skip
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How to prepare each section in 3 months
Video Suggestion: Watch “NDA Syllabus 2026 Complete Breakdown” on our YouTube channel – VISION DEFENCE INSTITUTE MADURAI.
NDA Exam 2026: Paper Pattern at a Glance
Before we dive into the nda gat syllabus, understand the exam pattern.
| Parameter | Mathematics Paper | GAT Paper (General Ability Test) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2.5 hours (150 minutes) | 2.5 hours (150 minutes) |
| Maximum Marks | 300 | 600 |
| Number of Questions | 120 | 150 |
| Marks per Question | 2.5 | 4 (English) / 4 (GK) |
| Negative Marking | -0.83 per wrong answer | -1.33 per wrong answer |
| Total for NDA | 900 marks (300 + 600) |
Subject-wise Breakdown of GAT (600 Marks)
| Section | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English | 50 | 200 |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 400 |
| Total GAT | 150 | 600 |
The GK section in nda gat syllabus includes:
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Physics (25 questions → 100 marks)
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Chemistry (15 questions → 60 marks)
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General Science (10 questions → 40 marks)
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History & Geography (30 questions → 120 marks)
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Current Affairs (20 questions → 80 marks)
NDA Maths Syllabus 2026: Complete Topic Breakdown
The nda maths syllabus is based on Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT Mathematics. It carries 300 marks and is often the deciding factor between selection and rejection.
Topic 1: Algebra (25-30 questions – HIGHEST WEIGHTAGE)
| Sub-Topic | What to Study | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Sets, Relations & Functions | Venn diagrams, types of sets, domain/range | High |
| Complex Numbers | Real/imaginary parts, modulus, argument, square roots | High |
| Quadratic Equations | Roots, discriminant, nature of roots | High |
| Sequences & Series | AP, GP, HP, sum to n terms | High |
| Permutations & Combinations | nPr, nCr, arrangements, selections | Medium |
| Binomial Theorem | General term, middle term, coefficients | Medium |
| Matrices & Determinants | Addition, multiplication, inverse, properties | High |
| Inequalities | Linear and quadratic inequalities | Low |
Topic 2: Calculus (20-25 questions – HIGH WEIGHTAGE)
| Sub-Topic | What to Study | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Functions & Limits | Types of functions, limit laws, L’Hospital’s rule | High |
| Differentiation | Derivative of algebraic, trig, exponential, log functions | High |
| Application of Derivatives | Tangent, normal, maxima, minima, increasing/decreasing | High |
| Integration | Indefinite and definite integrals, substitution method | High |
| Differential Equations | Order, degree, solving simple equations | Medium |
Topic 3: Trigonometry (10-15 questions)
| Sub-Topic | What to Study | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Angles & Their Measures | Degree, radian, conversion | Low |
| Trigonometric Ratios | sin, cos, tan, cosec, sec, cot for standard angles | High |
| Trigonometric Identities | sin²θ + cos²θ = 1, etc. | High |
| Compound & Multiple Angles | sin(A+B), cos2θ, tan2θ formulas | High |
| Inverse Trigonometry | Principal values, properties | Medium |
Topic 4: Coordinate Geometry (10-15 questions)
| Sub-Topic | What to Study | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Lines | Slope, intercepts, distance formula, section formula | High |
| Circles | Equation, center, radius, tangent, normal | High |
| Conic Sections | Parabola, ellipse, hyperbola – standard equations | Medium |
| 3D Geometry | Distance between points, direction ratios/cosines | Low |
Topic 5: Vector Algebra & Statistics (5-10 questions each)
| Sub-Topic | What to Study | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Vector Algebra | Addition, dot product, cross product, magnitude | Medium |
| Statistics | Mean, median, mode, standard deviation, variance | Low |
| Probability | Basic probability, conditional probability, Bayes’ theorem | Medium |
Topics You Can SKIP in NDA Maths Syllabus
| Topic | Why Skip |
|---|---|
| Mathematical Induction | Very low weightage (0-1 question) |
| Linear Programming | Rarely asked in NDA |
| Properties of Triangles | Low weightage, high effort |
NDA GAT Syllabus: English Section (200 Marks)
The nda gat syllabus English section tests your understanding of the English language – not literature.
NDA English Syllabus: Complete Topics (50 Questions)
| Topic | What to Study | Typical Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Spotting Errors | Subject-verb agreement, tenses, prepositions, articles | 8-10 questions |
| Comprehension | Read a passage, answer questions on main idea, inference | 5-7 questions |
| Fill in the Blanks | Vocabulary, context clues, conjunctions | 5-6 questions |
| Sentence Improvement | Choose the grammatically correct version | 5-6 questions |
| Synonyms & Antonyms | Word meanings from a given list | 4-5 questions |
| Idioms & Phrases | Common expressions and their meanings | 3-4 questions |
| Ordering of Sentences | Arrange jumbled sentences logically | 3-4 questions |
| Active & Passive Voice | Convert sentences between voices | 2-3 questions |
| Direct & Indirect Speech | Convert between direct and reported speech | 2-3 questions |
| Tenses | Correct usage of present, past, future | 3-4 questions |
NDA English Syllabus: Preparation Tips
| Tip | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Read The Hindu editorial daily | Improves vocabulary and comprehension naturally |
| Maintain a vocabulary notebook | Learn 10 new words daily with synonyms/antonyms |
| Solve previous year NDA English papers | Understand the exact question patterns |
| Focus on spotting errors first | Highest weightage in nda english syllabus |
| Take weekly mock tests | Build speed – 50 questions in 30-40 minutes |
NDA GAT Syllabus: Physics Section (100 Marks)
The nda gat syllabus Physics section is based on NCERT Class 11 and 12 Physics.
Topic-wise Breakdown
| Topic | Sub-Topics | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanics | Motion in 1D/2D, Newton’s laws, friction, work-energy, circular motion | 6-8 questions |
| Thermodynamics | Laws of thermodynamics, heat transfer, Carnot engine | 3-4 questions |
| Optics | Reflection, refraction, lenses, mirrors, wave optics | 3-4 questions |
| Electricity & Magnetism | Ohm’s law, circuits, magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction | 5-6 questions |
| Modern Physics | Photoelectric effect, atomic structure, nuclear physics, semiconductors | 3-4 questions |
| Waves & Oscillations | SHM, wave motion, sound waves, Doppler effect | 2-3 questions |
| Properties of Matter | Elasticity, surface tension, viscosity, fluid mechanics | 2-3 questions |
Must-Study Topics in Physics
| Topic | Why Important |
|---|---|
| Newton’s Laws of Motion | Foundation for 50% of mechanics |
| Ohm’s Law & Circuits | High weightage, easy scoring |
| Lens & Mirror Formula | Direct formula-based questions |
| Photoelectric Effect | Modern physics is high-scoring |
| Laws of Thermodynamics | Theory-based, less calculation |
NDA GAT Syllabus: Chemistry Section (60 Marks)
Topic-wise Breakdown
| Topic | Sub-Topics | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Chemistry | Atomic structure, mole concept, chemical bonding, periodic table | 5-6 questions |
| Organic Chemistry | Hydrocarbons, alcohols, aldehydes, functional groups, polymers | 4-5 questions |
| Inorganic Chemistry | s-block, p-block elements, metallurgy, coordination compounds | 3-4 questions |
| Environmental Chemistry | Pollution, greenhouse effect, ozone depletion | 1-2 questions |
Must-Study Topics in Chemistry
| Topic | Why Important |
|---|---|
| Periodic Table Trends | High weightage, easy to memorize |
| Chemical Bonding | Ionic, covalent, hydrogen bonding – frequent questions |
| Mole Concept | Calculation-based, high scoring |
| Hydrocarbons | Organic chemistry basics – must know |
| Atomic Structure | Bohr model, quantum numbers |
NDA GAT Syllabus: General Science & Biology (40 Marks)
Topic-wise Breakdown
| Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
| Human Body | Digestive, respiratory, circulatory, nervous, excretory systems |
| Diseases | Bacterial, viral, deficiency diseases |
| Cell Biology | Cell structure, organelles, cell division |
| Genetics | DNA, RNA, Mendel’s laws |
| Ecology | Ecosystem, food chain, biodiversity |
| Biotechnology | Basic concepts, applications |
NDA GAT Syllabus: History & Geography (120 Marks)
History Topics
| Period | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
| Ancient India | Indus Valley, Vedic period, Mauryan, Gupta, Buddhism, Jainism |
| Medieval India | Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, Bhakti & Sufi movements |
| Modern India | British expansion, Revolt of 1857, Freedom movement (Congress, Gandhi, Partition) |
| World History | French Revolution, World War I & II, Cold War |
Geography Topics
| Type | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
| Physical Geography | Earth’s structure, volcanoes, earthquakes, rocks, mountains, rivers |
| Indian Geography | States, capitals, rivers, mountains, soil types, crops, mineral resources |
| World Geography | Continents, countries, capitals, important cities, climate zones |
| Environmental Geography | Climate change, deforestation, conservation, national parks |
NDA GAT Syllabus: Current Affairs (80 Marks)
What to Cover for Current Affairs
| Category | What to Follow |
|---|---|
| National News | Government schemes, elections, bills, policies |
| International News | India’s foreign relations, summits, agreements |
| Defence News | Military exercises, procurements, DRDO, border tensions |
| Sports | Major tournaments, winners, records (last 12-18 months) |
| Awards & Honors | Padma awards, Nobel prizes, Gallantry awards |
| Books & Authors | Important book releases |
| Obituaries | Famous personalities who passed away |
| Science & Technology | ISRO missions, new discoveries |
Best Sources for Current Affairs
| Source | Why It’s Good |
|---|---|
| The Hindu / Indian Express | Daily news coverage |
| PIB (Press Information Bureau) | Official government releases |
| Monthly Current Affairs Magazine | Compiled, exam-focused content |
| VDI Madurai Daily Updates | Defence-specific news curated for you |
Topic-Wise Weightage Summary for NDA Exam Syllabus 2026
Mathematics (300 marks)
| Topic | Approx Questions | Approx Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra | 25-30 | 62-75 |
| Calculus | 20-25 | 50-62 |
| Trigonometry | 10-15 | 25-37 |
| Coordinate Geometry | 10-15 | 25-37 |
| Vector Algebra | 5-8 | 12-20 |
| Statistics & Probability | 5-8 | 12-20 |
| Total | 120 | 300 |
GAT – English (200 marks)
| Topic | Approx Questions | Approx Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Spotting Errors | 8-10 | 32-40 |
| Comprehension | 5-7 | 20-28 |
| Fill in the Blanks | 5-6 | 20-24 |
| Synonyms/Antonyms | 4-5 | 16-20 |
| Others | ~22 | ~88 |
| Total | 50 | 200 |
GAT – GK (400 marks)
| Topic | Approx Questions | Approx Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 25 | 100 |
| Chemistry | 15 | 60 |
| General Science | 10 | 40 |
| History | 15 | 60 |
| Geography | 15 | 60 |
| Current Affairs | 20 | 80 |
| Total | 100 | 400 |
3-Month Preparation Plan for NDA Exam Syllabus 2026
Month 1: Foundation (Weeks 1-4)
| Week | Maths Focus | GAT Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Algebra (Sets, Complex Numbers, Quadratics) | English (Grammar basics, Spotting errors) |
| Week 2 | Algebra (Sequences, Permutations, Binomial) | Physics (Mechanics – Motion, Laws, Work-Energy) |
| Week 3 | Calculus (Limits, Differentiation) | Chemistry (Atomic structure, Periodic table) |
| Week 4 | Calculus (Applications, Integration) | History (Ancient & Medieval India) |
Month 2: Intensive Practice (Weeks 5-8)
| Week | Maths Focus | GAT Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Week 5 | Trigonometry + Coordinate Geometry | Geography (Physical + Indian) |
| Week 6 | Vector Algebra + Probability | Physics (Electricity, Magnetism, Optics) |
| Week 7 | Full Maths syllabus revision | Chemistry (Organic + Inorganic) |
| Week 8 | Maths mock tests (3 per week) | English + Current Affairs daily |
Month 3: Revision & Mocks (Weeks 9-12)
| Week | Focus |
|---|---|
| Week 9 | Full-length NDA mock tests (alternate days) |
| Week 10 | Analyze mistakes – focus on weak topics |
| Week 11 | Revise formulas, shortcuts, GK notes |
| Week 12 | 1 mock test daily + light revision |
How VDI Madurai Covers NDA Exam Syllabus 2026
At Vision Defence Institute (VDI) , located at 2ND STOP, S ALANGULAM, Kulamangalam Main Rd, Madurai, our NDA program is structured exactly around the nda gat syllabus, nda maths syllabus, and nda english syllabus.
Our Coverage
| Subject | How We Teach It |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Topic-wise classes, formula sheets, 1000+ practice problems |
| English | Daily grammar drills, comprehension practice, vocabulary building |
| Physics & Chemistry | NCERT-based teaching, numerical practice, concept clearing |
| History & Geography | Chronological teaching, map-based learning, memory techniques |
| Current Affairs | Daily updates, monthly compilations, weekly quizzes |
What You Get at VDI Madurai
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✅ Complete nda exam syllabus 2026 coverage
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✅ Printed study material (no need for extra books)
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✅ Daily doubt-clearing sessions
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✅ Weekly mock tests with detailed analysis
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✅ Previous year papers (last 10 years) solved
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✅ Free demo class before admission
Downloadable NDA Syllabus 2026 PDF
Want a printable PDF of the complete NDA exam syllabus 2026?
📄 Download link: [Insert your PDF download link here – create a landing page to capture leads]
The PDF includes:
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Complete topic-wise syllabus for Maths & GAT
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Chapter-wise weightage
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Recommended NCERT books list
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3-month study plan calendar
👉 Click here to download the NDA Syllabus 2026 PDF for FREE
Frequently Asked Questions: NDA Exam Syllabus 2026
Q1: What is the nda gat syllabus for 2026?
A: The nda gat syllabus includes English (200 marks) and General Knowledge (400 marks). GK covers Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.
Q2: Is Class 12 NCERT enough for nda maths syllabus?
A: Yes, NCERT Class 11 and 12 Mathematics covers 90% of the nda maths syllabus. However, you need additional practice for speed and accuracy.
Q3: How many questions come from English in NDA?
A: 50 questions (200 marks). The nda english syllabus includes spotting errors, comprehension, fill in the blanks, synonyms/antonyms, idioms, and sentence improvement.
Q4: Is there negative marking in NDA?
A: Yes. Maths: -0.83 per wrong answer. GAT: -1.33 per wrong answer.
Q5: Can I prepare for NDA syllabus without coaching?
A: Yes, self-study is possible. However, coaching at VDI Madurai provides structure, mock tests, doubt clearing, and current affairs updates – which most self-study students miss.
Q6: What is the best book for nda gat syllabus?
A: “Pathfinder for NDA” by Arihant and NCERT textbooks (Class 11-12) for Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography.
Q7: Is the NDA syllabus changing for 2026?
A: As of now, no major changes have been announced. UPSC follows the same syllabus pattern. Check official notification for updates.
The Final Salute
The nda exam syllabus 2026 is vast – but it is also predictable.
Once you know exactly what to study, the fear disappears.
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nda maths syllabus → 120 questions, 300 marks – master Algebra and Calculus
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nda gat syllabus → 150 questions, 600 marks – focus on English + Physics + Current Affairs
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nda english syllabus → 50 questions, 200 marks – practice spotting errors daily
You don’t need to be a genius. You need to be consistent.
Start today. Download the syllabus PDF. Make a study plan. Join VDI Madurai if you need guidance.
Your NDA journey starts with understanding the syllabus. Now you have it.
📍 Visit VDI Madurai for a FREE career counseling session:
VDI Madurai
2ND STOP, S ALANGULAM, Kulamangalam Main Rd,
Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625017
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 81222 87718
📧 Email: visiondefencemduofficial@gmail.com
🌐 Follow us:
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Facebook: Vision Defence Institute Madurai
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Instagram: @vision_defence_mdu
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Syllabus known. Plan ready. Now execute.
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
