UPSC NDA 1 Exam 2026 Difficulty Level: The NDA 1 Exam 2026 is being conducted across India on April 12 by the Union Public Service Commission. Thousands of candidates appeared for the exam at multiple centres in offline mode. The exam is held in two shifts covering Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT).

Exam analysis helps candidates understand the difficulty level, question trends, and expected cut-off. Based on initial student feedback, the Mathematics paper was moderately difficult and slightly lengthy, with questions from algebra, matrices, calculus, and geometry.

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NDA Exam Timing 2026:

 Check the NDA Shift Timings 2026 in the table below:

Shift

Paper

Exam Time

Reporting Time

Shift 1

Mathematics

10:00 AM to 12:30 PM

9:50 AM

Shift 1

GAT

2:00 PM to 4:30 PM

1:50 PM

What Was the Difficulty Level of NDA Maths 2026?

According to initial student reactions, the Mathematics paper in NDA 1 Exam 2026 was moderate to difficult. Several candidates reported tricky questions from matrices, permutations, and calculus, while a few sections had comparatively easier questions.

Which Topics Had the Highest Weightage in NDA Maths 2026?

The Mathematics paper showed balanced coverage across various topics such as algebra, matrices, calculus, vectors, and probability. However, matrices and determinants had the highest number of questions in the exam.

What is the Marks Distribution & Good Attempts in the NDA Exam?

The NDA written examination consists of two papers with a total of 900 marks. Candidates who clear the written exam are called for the SSB interview, which also carries 900 marks.

Paper Questions    Marks
Mathematics 120 300
General Ability Test (GAT)     150 600
Total Written Marks — 900
 
A score of 400 is considered average to slightly above average. It may be enough to clear the written exam, depending on the cut-off for that year, but selection is not guaranteed and also depends on SSB performance.
 
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What happens after the NDA Written Exam?

Candidates who qualify the written examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission will be called for the SSB interview stage, which evaluates personality, intelligence, and leadership qualities before final selection.