Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filling NDA Form – Save Your Attempt!

Applying for the National Defence Academy (NDA) is a crucial step in your journey toward joining the Indian Armed Forces. Every year, thousands of aspirants apply for the NDA exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). However, many deserving candidates face rejection simply due to errors in the application form. Don’t let small mistakes ruin your big dream. In this blog, we will walk you through the most common mistakes to avoid while filling the NDA form, so you can submit it flawlessly and save your attempt.

1. Incorrect Personal Details

One of the most frequent and serious mistakes candidates make is entering wrong personal information like:

• Name spelling not matching the Class 10 certificate

• Incorrect date of birth

• Father's or mother’s name mismatch

Tip: Always keep your Class 10th certificate in front of you while filling these details. Make sure every entry matches exactly.

2. Wrong Educational Details

NDA eligibility requires you to be:

• A 12th pass (or appearing) with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Math) for the Air Force and Navy wings

• A 12th pass (or appearing) in any stream for the Army wing

Mistake: Selecting the wrong stream or incorrect educational status.

Tip: Carefully select your stream and current educational status based on your actual qualification.

3. Uploading Blurry or Wrong Format Photos/Signatures

UPSC has strict guidelines regarding photo and signature:

• Clear, recent passport-size photo (white background preferred)

• Signature in black ink on white paper

• File size and format must match UPSC's requirements (usually JPEG format)

Tip: Use a proper scanner or photo editing tool to get the correct size and clarity. Avoid selfies or casual photos.

4. Skipping Declaration or Final Submit

Many candidates fill the entire form but forget to:

• Tick the declaration checkbox

• Click on final "Submit"

Result: Your form is incomplete and won’t be accepted.

Tip: Always double-check before exiting. Until you get a confirmation page or email, your form is not considered submitted.

5. Incorrect Selection of Examination Centre

UPSC allows you to choose your exam city. Once the slots fill up, you might be allotted a different city.

Mistake: Selecting a far or unfamiliar city, or filling this section in haste.

Tip: Choose your nearest and most convenient center early during the registration period.

6. Not Paying the Fees Properly

While SC/ST candidates and sons of JCOs/NCOs/ORs may be exempted, others must pay a small fee.

Mistake:

• Not completing payment

• Payment failure but assuming it went through

Tip: Always wait for payment confirmation and download the receipt.

7. Using Multiple Applications

Some students panic after making a small error and fill out the form again with a different email or phone number.

Mistake: Submitting multiple applications creates confusion.

Tip: If you've made a major mistake, submit a fresh application but use a new email and mobile number only if absolutely necessary. Remember, UPSC considers the last submitted form.

8. Missing the Application Deadline

Every year, many aspirants delay filling the form and forget the deadline.

Tip: Fill the form early. Don’t wait for the last date to avoid server issues or payment gateway failures.

9. Ignoring Email/SMS Updates from UPSC

After submission, UPSC may send alerts about:

• Form rejection

• Payment failure

• Admit card availability

Mistake: Not checking email/SMS regularly.

Tip: Monitor the email and mobile number you registered with.

10. Not Taking a Printout of the Form

It is always recommended to keep a printout of the filled NDA form and payment receipt.

Mistake: Candidates forget to download or save the form.

Tip: Save the PDF and take a printout immediately after final submission.

Final Thoughts

Filling out the NDA form is your first official step toward serving the nation. Don’t let silly mistakes be the reason for rejection. Always take your time, follow instructions, and review every detail carefully.

If you still have doubts or need expert guidance,

reach out to Cavalier Delhi (Since 2001) – India’s No.1 NDA Coaching Institute.

📞 Call: 8766375168📍 Visit: www.cavalier.in

Let nothing come between you and your dream to wear the uniform. Jai Hind!