10 NDA Myths Busted – What Students Often Get Wrong

Every year, lakhs of students dream of joining the National Defence Academy (NDA) – India’s premier training institution for future Army, Navy, and Air Force officers. But while ambition runs high, so do misconceptions and myths about the exam and life at NDA.

These myths often confuse aspirants, misguide preparation, and sometimes even discourage the most capable students. In this blog, we’ll bust the top 10 NDA myths that many students still believe — and set the record straight for all future defence warriors.

🚫 Myth #1: NDA is Only for Boys

✅ Reality: Girls Can Also Apply for NDA

Thanks to a historic Supreme Court decision in 2021, girls are now allowed to appear for the NDA exam and join the academy. Since NDA 1 2022, female candidates have been selected, trained, and groomed at NDA alongside their male counterparts.

NDA is no longer a boys-only zone — it’s a battlefield of equal opportunities.

🚫 Myth #2: Only Students with Science Stream Can Apply

✅ Reality: You Can Join NDA Army Wing from Any Stream

For NDA:

• Army Wing: Class 12 in any stream

• Air Force/Navy: Class 12 with Physics & Math's

So yes, Commerce and Humanities students can apply for NDA — but only for the Army.

Don't let your stream stop you from dreaming big — just know which service you're eligible for.

🚫 Myth #3: You Need to Be Physically Very Strong to Clear NDA

✅ Reality: Basic Physical Fitness is Enough for Selection

You don’t need to be a bodybuilder or an athlete. However, you must:

• Be medically fit

• Have normal BMI, eyesight, and stamina

• Be able to perform basic physical tasks during SSB

The key is to start preparing early and focus on consistency, not brute strength.

The SSB looks for potential officers, not gym freaks.

🚫 Myth #4: You Can’t Crack NDA Without Coaching

✅ Reality: Coaching Helps, But Self-Study Works Too (If Done Right)

Plenty of students crack NDA through self-study with:

• Right books

• Mock tests

• Strong discipline

However, coaching like Cavalier Delhi provides structured preparation, doubt-solving, mock SSB interviews, and personal mentorship, which can boost your chances.

Coaching is an accelerator — not a requirement.

🚫 Myth #5: The NDA Written Exam is the Hardest Part

✅ Reality: SSB Interview is More Challenging Than the Written Test

The written exam tests academic knowledge. But the SSB interview is where real filtering happens.

SSB tests:

• Psychology

• Leadership

• Communication

• Group behavior

• Situation handling

Most aspirants clear written and struggle at SSB. So, start preparing for SSB early, not after clearing the exam.

NDA is the ticket. SSB is the gate.

🚫 Myth #6: NDA is Just Like a Regular College

✅ Reality: NDA is a Military Academy with Tough Discipline and Training

NDA isn’t a chill college campus. It’s a defence training institution where:

• Your day starts at 4:30 AM

• Physical and academic training are rigorous

• Discipline, punctuality, and grooming are non-negotiable

You’ll earn friendships for life, but also learn sacrifice, resilience, and responsibility.

It’s not college life. It’s officer life in the making.

🚫 Myth #7: If You’re Not Good at English, You Can’t Crack SSB

✅ Reality: Fluency Helps, But Expression Matters More

You don’t need a British accent. What’s important is:

• Clarity of thought

• Ability to express yourself

• Confidence in speaking

Many candidates from rural or Hindi-medium backgrounds clear SSB with practice, self-confidence, and right guidance.

Be real. Be confident. That’s what SSB looks for.

🚫 Myth #8: Only Toppers Can Clear NDA

✅ Reality: Average Students with Dedication Crack NDA Every Year

NDA is not about being a school topper. It’s about:

• Concept clarity

• Smart preparation

• Good physical and mental fitness

• Consistent effort

Even students with average academic backgrounds but strong determination can crack NDA — especially with good coaching and strategy.

It’s not about IQ. It’s about consistency + attitude.

🚫 Myth #9: Once You Join NDA, You Can Never Quit

✅ Reality: Cadets Can Exit NDA Under Specific Circumstances

While it’s a committed career path, cadets can leave NDA due to:

• Medical issues

• Personal reasons

• Inability to cope with training

However, NDA is prestigious — so leaving mid-way is rare and taken seriously.

It’s a voluntary journey — but one that demands full dedication once you begin.

🚫 Myth #10: NDA is the Only Way to Become an Officer

✅ Reality: There Are Multiple Officer Entry Routes

NDA is the most popular after-Class 12 route, but not the only one.

Other officer entries include:

• CDS (after graduation)

• TES (for PCM students after 12th)

• AFCAT (for Air Force)

• NCC Special Entry

• Technical Entries

So even if you miss NDA, your officer journey doesn’t end.

NDA is the highway, not the only road.

✅ Final Takeaway: Don’t Fall for Myths — Prepare with Clarity

If you're serious about joining NDA, base your decisions on facts, not fear. Here’s what truly matters:

• Start early (ideally from Class 11)

• Know your eligibility and target service (Army/Navy/Air Force)

• Prepare for both written and SSB interview

• Focus on communication, confidence, and current affairs

• Stay physically and mentally fit

• Seek guidance from trusted NDA coaching like Cavalier Delhi(Since 2001)

🎯 Want to Crack NDA with Confidence?

At Cavalier Delhi, we’ve helped thousands of NDA aspirants clear both written and SSB since 2001.

📞 Call Now for Free Consultation: 8766375168 

📍 Cavalier Delhi – C-73, Shardapuri, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi – 110015 

🌐 Visit: www.cavalier.in