AFTER CLASS 10th HOW TO START NDA 2026
1. Understand NDA Eligibility & Pathways
Before diving into training, it’s important to know what the official eligibility for the NDA exam is.
The exam is conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
Eligibility (for the Army wing) is usually: 12th pass or appearing. For Navy & Air Force wings: 12th pass/appearing with Physics & Mathematics.
Age limit (varies by year): around 16½ to 19½ years (for example) when joining.
For a 10th-pass student: since you’re still before 12th, the typical path is: continue studies to 12th (or equivalent), while parallelly preparing for NDA.
So, while you can start now (after 10th) to build the foundation — the official “12th completed or appearing” requirement means your training should align with that.
2. Why Choose Manasa Defence Academy (MDA) in Visakhapatnam
Here are key features of MDA that support your journey:
MDA is a registered defence academy, located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, offering training for NDA, Army, Navy, Air Force, other govt jobs. visakhapatnamonline.in+3manasadefenceacademy.com+3manasadefenceacademy.in+3
They advertise “after 10th & 12th” training for NDA and defence jobs — meaning you can join early. manasadefenceacademy.in+2manasadefenceacademy.com+2
Infrastructure & facilities: hostel (AC/non-AC), mess (veg & non-veg), gym, swimming pool, physical training by retired defence officers. manasadefenceacademy.com+2manasadefenceacademy.com+2
A fixed daily routine modelled on defence training, which helps build discipline and readiness. manasadefenceacademy.com+1
These features make MDA a strong option for you to get a head-start.
3. What You Should Do After 10th to Prepare for NDA 2026
Here’s a suggested roadmap:
a. Enrol for +2 (11th & 12th) Studies
Since NDA requires 12th pass/appearing (in most cases), you should join an Intermediate course (or equivalent) right after 10th.
At MDA, you can continue your academics while doing defence-preparation. manasadefenceacademy.com
b. Begin Defence-Oriented Training Simultaneously
Physical fitness: running, endurance, strength, swimming, gym – MDA has facilities for this. manasadefenceacademy.com+1
Academic coaching: Mathematics, English, General Ability, since NDA written exam covers these. MDA offers in-depth coaching. manasadefenceacademy.com
Personality development, English communication, SSB interview basics – very important. MDA emphasises these too. manasadefenceacademy.com+1
c. Familiarise Yourself with the NDA Exam Pattern
Two papers: Paper I (Mathematics) + Paper II (General Ability Test) – understand syllabus, solve previous years’ papers.
Interview (SSB) and medical tests follow.
Start with monthly/weekly mock tests and training for physical & interview stages.
d. Join a Training Batch at MDA (2026-27 Session)
MDA has opened registrations for the 2026-27 batch. manasajobsacademy.blogspot.com
Decide on a batch: Many academies offer “foundation” batches for students after 10th or 12th, leading up to the main exam prep.
Ensure you attend orientation, understand fee structure, accommodation, training schedule.
e. Maintain Discipline, Lifestyle & Health
Defence selection isn’t just academics; fitness, health, discipline matter heavily.
At MDA, the routine is early morning (e.g., 5 AM) PT, yoga, academic classes, study hours. manasadefenceacademy.com
Keep lifestyle clean: good diet, ample sleep, no bad habits, regular physical training.
4. Why Starting After 10th Gives You an Edge
Longer preparation time: You’re giving yourself more months/years to build fitness, discipline, knowledge.
Integrated approach: MDA allows parallel academics and defence coaching, so you don’t have to postpone your studies.
Better readiness: By the time you apply, you’re already physically and mentally fitter, more confident for SSB, and have foundation in major subjects