Preparation of Final Merit List based on NDA Exam Scores and SSB Interview Performance


The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for the selection of candidates into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The final merit list is prepared based on the scores obtained in the NDA written exam as well as the performance in the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.


The first step in the selection process is the NDA written exam. This exam consists of two papers - Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The Mathematics paper carries 300 marks, while the GAT paper carries 600 marks. The total marks for the written exam are 900.


After the completion of the NDA written exam, the UPSC releases the result. The result is based on the cutoff marks determined by the UPSC. Candidates who score above the cutoff are deemed qualified for the next stage of the selection process, i.e., the SSB interview.


Candidates who clear the NDA written exam are called for the SSB interview. The SSB interview is a comprehensive evaluation process that assesses the candidates' suitability for a career in the armed forces. It comprises various stages, including intelligence tests, psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. The SSB interview is conducted over a period of 5-6 days.


The final merit list is prepared based on the cumulative performance of the candidates in the NDA written exam and the SSB interview. The weightage given to each component is as follows:

- NDA Written Exam: The marks obtained by the candidates in the NDA written exam are scaled down to 900. These scaled marks are used for ranking the candidates.
- SSB Interview: The SSB interview carries a maximum of 900 marks. The performance of the candidates in various stages of the interview process is assessed, and the marks are awarded accordingly.

The final merit list is prepared by adding the scaled marks of the NDA written exam and the marks obtained in the SSB interview. The candidates are then ranked based on their total marks. In case of a tie, the candidate with higher marks in the NDA written exam is given preference. If the tie persists, the candidate with higher marks in the GAT paper is given preference.


The preparation of the final merit list for the NDA exam involves combining the scaled marks of the NDA written exam and the marks obtained in the SSB interview. The candidates are ranked based on their total marks, and in case of a tie, various criteria are used to determine the final ranking. The final merit list determines the selection of candidates into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.