NDA Total Cost from Exam to Training: Dreaming of joining NDA? How much does it cost to fill the form? What is the NDA coaching fees? How much does it cost your pocket to reach SSB interview? What expenses does the government bear during training? Know the complete expenditure of UPSC NDA and the complete mathematics of the budget.
NDA Exam Preparation Expenses: NDA (National Defense Academy) is considered to be the biggest path for lakhs of youth who dream of becoming officers in the three forces of the country, Army, Navy and Air Force. Every year a large number of students start preparing for the NDA exam, but a question often remains in the minds of families that does the NDA preparation and selection process cost a lot? If you are also dreaming of UPSC NDA, then it is important to understand the entire expense from filling the form till completion of training.
First of all know the cost of filling NDA form
NDA exam is conducted by UPSC. The application fee for General, OBC and EWS category candidates is Rs 100. Whereas SC, ST and women candidates do not have to pay application fee. That means the cost of filling the examination form is very low.
How much can one have to spend on NDA exam preparation?
The cost of NDA preparation completely depends on the strategy of the student. If a student does self study then good preparation can be done through books and online material in Rs 2,000 to 5,000. However, many students opt for coaching. In big cities, NDA coaching fees usually range from Rs 30 thousand to Rs 1 lakh or more. Apart from this, accommodation and food expenses may be added separately.
Some expenses even after passing NDA exam
The candidate may have to bear the traveling expenses for written examination and SSB interview. Some minor personal expenses may also arise during medical tests and other formalities. However, this expense depends on the candidate’s location and means of travel.
Government incurs huge expenses during NDA training
After selection in NDA the picture changes completely. The government bears most of the expenses for the education, accommodation, food and military training of the candidates during their training at the National Defense Academy, Pune. Cadets are also provided with uniforms, equipment and other facilities. Some personal belongings and pocket money are the responsibility of the candidate.
How much should be the overall budget for candidates dreaming of joining NDA?
If a student prepares without coaching then the total expense to reach NDA can be quite limited. At the same time, the expenditure on availing coaching, hostel and other facilities can reach Rs 50 thousand to Rs 1.5 lakh or more. The good thing is that after selection, the huge financial burden of training does not fall on the candidate or his family. This is the reason why NDA is still one of the most attractive career options for those youth who want to fulfill their dream of becoming an officer in the country’s army at low cost.
Last date to apply for UPSC NDA 2 2026 today
The last date to apply for UPSC NDA 2 2026 is today, June 9, 2026. Candidates who want to appear in the examination should visit the official website of UPSC and fill the form as soon as possible. The Commission has made it clear that the application date will not be extended. NDA 2 exam (NDA Exam Date 2026) will be held on 13 September 2026. If there is any problem in filling the form, you can contact UPSC helpdesk 1124041001 or 011-40303444. Apart from this, assistance can also be taken by emailing [email protected].