The NDA Exam Selection Process: Combining Written Exam and SSB Interview Scores

The selection process for the National Defence Academy (NDA) exam consists of two stages: a written exam and the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. The scores obtained in both these stages are combined to determine the final selection of candidates. Let's delve into the details of how this combination is done.

Written Exam:
The written exam is the first stage of the NDA selection process. It consists of two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). Both papers are conducted on the same day, and each paper is given a maximum score of 300.

- Mathematics: The mathematics paper focuses on topics such as algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics. The maximum score for this paper is 300.

- General Ability Test (GAT): The GAT paper assesses candidates' proficiency in English, general knowledge, and reasoning ability. It consists of various sections, including English, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, Current Affairs, and General Knowledge. Each section carries a different weightage of marks, and the maximum score for the GAT paper is also 300.

Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview:
After clearing the written exam, candidates are shortlisted for the SSB interview, which is conducted by the Services Selection Board. The SSB interview is a comprehensive assessment of candidates' physical fitness, personality traits, and aptitude for military service. It consists of various tests, including a psychological test, group discussions, personal interviews, and physical fitness tests. The SSB interview is conducted over a period of five days, and candidates are evaluated on a point-based system.

Combining the Scores:
In the NDA selection process, the scores obtained in the written exam and the SSB interview are combined to determine the final selection of candidates. Here's how this combination is done:

- The maximum score for the written exam is 900 (300 for Mathematics + 600 for GAT).
- The SSB interview is given a maximum score of 900.
- The written exam score is multiplied by 2.5 to bring it on par with the SSB interview score.
- The multiplied written exam score and the SSB interview score are then added together to obtain the final selection score.

Final Selection:
The final selection of candidates is based on the overall score obtained in the written exam and the SSB interview. Candidates who score above the cutoff marks set by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) are recommended for admission to the NDA.

In conclusion, the NDA exam selection process combines the scores obtained in the written exam and the SSB interview. The written exam score is multiplied by 2.5 to bring it on par with the SSB interview score, and the combined score determines the final selection of candidates for admission to the National Defence Academy.