The wait is finally over! The Union Public Service Commission is all set to conduct the examination for NDA 1 and NDA 2, 2020 admissions tomorrow i.e. September 06, 2020. The combined competitive exam will be conducted in centres across the nation in two shifts. Applicants of NDA 1, 2020 and NDA 2, 2020 were issued the admit cards for the exam on August 10, 2020. Candidates must report to the respective centres with the printed copy of the admit card issued to their name. Those who have not downloaded the admit card must do so without any delay by logging in at the UPSC website i.e. upsc.gov.in. Unlike other times, this year, the UPSC is conducting a common exam due to constraints faced by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Union Public Service Commission announced the exam date of NDA 2020 earlier in the revised schedule of events announced at the official website. Although the online registration and application process of NDA 1, 2020 was completed by the end of January 2020, the Commission could not conduct the exam due to the ongoing pandemic. The delay led to the decision to conduct a common competitive exam for the selection of eligible candidates for admission to the National Defence Academies and Naval Academy.
The NDA examination will consist of two papers of Mathematics and General Ability Test. The Mathematics paper carries 300 marks while the GAT paper carries 600 marks leading to a total of 900 marks. Candidates are required to answer the objective type question paper in a total duration of 02 hours and 30 minutes. The question paper is documented bilingually i.e. in Hindi and English language. Candidates must note that incorrect answers incur negative marking of 0.33 marks per answer. The detailed syllabus and exam pattern is available at the website. Candidates must remember to carry the admit card, along with a government-issued photo identity card such as Voter Card or Aadhar Card to the exam centre.
As a result of the restrictions imposed by the Central Government in order to tackle the ongoing pandemic situation, and in the greater interest of public health and safety, the Commission is all set to abide with precautionary measures. Candidates have already been directed to wear a face mask to the exam centre. The mask must be worn at all times and removed whenever asked for verification. Candidates are also allowed to carry hand sanitizer in small bottles for personal use. The bottles used must, however, be transparent. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification and other important notices published by the UPSC in regards to the NDA 2020 exam for all relevant details.