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How To Score 400+ In NDA 1 2025 Exam, Know Good Score, Subject-Wise Strategy

Learn How to Score 400+ in the NDA 1 2025 Exam with Proven Preparation Tips. Learn essential preparation tips and subject-relevant details to successfully score 400+ on the NDA 1 2025 exam.
authorImageBhavya Upadhyay22 Sept, 2025
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How To Score 400+ In NDA 1 2025 Exam

How To Score 400+ In NDA 1 2025 Exam: The National Defence Academy (NDA) 1 2025 Exam is one of the most prestigious examinations for aspirants aiming to join the Indian Armed Forces. Achieving a high score is essential to secure a place in the academy, and candidates often wonder how to score 400+ in NDA 1 2025 exam to maximize their chances of selection. Read on to get insights on comprehensive strategies, NDA 1 2025 Exam Preparation Tips, NDA preparation secrets, and key insights on how to score 400 marks in NDA effectively.

NDA 1 2025 Exam Overview

Before diving into preparation strategies, understanding the NDA 1 2025 Exam Overview is crucial. The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and consists of two papers:

  1. Mathematics – 300 marks

  2. General Ability Test (GAT) – 600 marks

    • English – 200 marks

    • General Knowledge (GK) – 400 marks

The total marks for the NDA written examination are 900, and candidates must perform well in both sections to qualify for the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview.

NDA 1 2025 Exam Overview

Exam Name

NDA 1 2025 (National Defence Academy)

Conducting Body

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

Exam Level

National

Selection Process

1. Written Exam (Mathematics & GAT)

2. SSB Interview

3. Medical Examination

Exam Mode

Offline (Pen & Paper)

Total Marks

900 (Written Exam: 900, SSB Interview: 900)

Exam Duration

5 Hours (Mathematics – 2.5 Hours, GAT – 2.5 Hours)

Mathematics Paper

120 Questions (300 Marks)

General Ability Test (GAT)

150 Questions (600 Marks)

GAT Sections

1. English – 200 Marks

2. General Knowledge – 400 Marks

Negative Marking

Yes (0.83 for Mathematics, 1.33 for GAT)

Exam Frequency

Twice a Year (April & September)

Eligibility Criteria

10+2 Passed/Appearing, Age 16.5 – 19.5 Years

Official Website

www.upsc.gov.in

How Many Marks Required in NDA to Secure 400+?

Understanding the weightage of each section is crucial. Here’s an ideal score distribution to achieve 400+ marks in the NDA 1 2025 Exam:

  • Mathematics: Target at least 160+ marks (out of 300).

  • General Ability Test (GAT): Aim for 240+ marks (out of 600).

Scoring 400+ in NDA GAT is particularly vital as it carries a higher weightage. Candidates aiming higher can follow similar strategies for how to score 450+ in NDA to further improve their chances.

How To Score 400+ In NDA 1 2025 Exam (Subject-wise Strategy)

Let's learn how to crack NDA 400+ marks. Achieving 400+ in NDA requires strategic preparation and consistent effort. Below are detailed subject-wise NDA 400 score tips to help you maximize your score.

Mathematics Strategy (Target: 180-200 Marks)

Since Mathematics accounts for 300 marks, a strong understanding of concepts is crucial. Here’s how to prepare an NDA topper strategy:

  1. Focus on NCERTs – Study Class 11 and 12 NCERT Mathematics books thoroughly.

  2. Prioritize Important Topics – Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, and Statistics are high-scoring areas.

  3. Daily Practice – Solve at least 40-50 questions daily to enhance speed and accuracy.

  4. Time Management – Practice solving questions within 2 minutes to improve efficiency during the exam.

  5. Mock Tests – Attempt full-length mock tests weekly to assess performance.

A strong understanding of concepts will significantly boost how to score 400+ in NDA with a balanced attempt in Mathematics.

General Ability Test (GAT) Strategy (Target: 220-250 Marks)

The GAT paper is crucial for achieving a 400+ score in NDA. It comprises English and General Knowledge, and excelling in both sections is required.

1. English Section (Target: 120-140 Marks)

  • Grammar and Vocabulary – Strengthen basics by referring to Wren & Martin for grammar and reading newspapers to enhance vocabulary.

  • Comprehension & Cloze Test – Practice regularly to improve reading speed and accuracy.

  • Error Spotting & Sentence Improvement – Solve at least 20 questions daily to avoid common mistakes.

  • Synonyms & Antonyms – Maintain a word list and revise it daily.

2. General Knowledge (Target: 100-120 Marks)

The GK section covers Science, History, Polity, Geography, and Current Affairs. To score well:

  • Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) – Focus on NCERT Class 9-12 books and understand basic principles.

  • History & Polity – Refer to Lucent’s General Knowledge for quick revisions.

  • Geography – Study maps and key geographical concepts.

  • Current Affairs – Read newspapers and monthly magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan.

How To Score 400+ in NDA GAT?

Many aspirants struggle with how to score 400+ in NDA GAT. The key is to maximize marks in English and Science, as these are the highest-scoring areas.

  • English – 140+ Marks

  • Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) – 90+ Marks

  • History & Polity – 50+ Marks

  • Geography & Current Affairs – 40+ Marks

By prioritizing high-scoring sections, you can push your GAT score to 220+, ensuring 400+ in NDA 1 2025 Exam.

NDA 1 2025 Exam Preparation Tips

Effective preparation is the key to NDA high scoring strategy in the NDA exam. By following a structured plan, candidates can ensure better results. Here are some valuable tips to help you succeed

  1. Create a Study Schedule – Dedicate specific time slots for each subject and adhere to a disciplined study routine.

  2. Mock Tests & Analysis – Take regular mock tests to evaluate your performance and identify areas of improvement.

  3. NCERT Books First – Strengthen basics with NCERT textbooks before moving to advanced books.

  4. Consistent Revision – Regularly revise formulas, facts, and concepts to retain information.

  5. Stay Physically & Mentally Fit – Engage in physical activities and maintain a balanced lifestyle to enhance concentration.

Conclusion

Scoring 400+ in NDA 1 2025 Exam requires dedicated preparation, strategic time management, and consistent practice. By following the right NDA 1 2025 Exam Preparation Tips, focusing on Mathematics and GAT, and avoiding common mistakes, aspirants can secure a competitive score. Stay disciplined, revise thoroughly, and approach the exam with confidence.

NDA 2025 Other Related Links
NDA 2025 Notification NDA Admit Card
NDA Syllabus NDA Eligibility Criteria
NDA 2 Result NDA Exam Analysis
NDA Previous Year Question Papers NDA Selection Process
NDA Vacancy NDA Application Form
NDA Cut  Off NDA Salary
NDA Exam Date NDA Preparation Tips
NDA Important Questions

How To Score 400+ In NDA 1 2025 Exam FAQs

Q1. Is 400 a good score in NDA?

Ans. Yes, 400 marks in NDA is considered a good score. It significantly increases your chances of qualifying for the SSB interview and securing a merit position.

Q2. How to score full marks in NDA?

Ans. To score exceptionally well in NDA, focus on time management, practice previous year papers, strengthen your conceptual knowledge in Mathematics, and stay updated on current affairs for GAT.

Q3. Is 700 marks good in NDA?

Ans. Achieving 700 marks in NDA is outstanding and guarantees a top rank. It reflects a strong command over both Mathematics and GAT sections.

Q4. How to score 400+ in NDA GAT?

Ans. To score 400+ in NDA GAT, focus on English grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. Additionally, revise General Knowledge topics including Science, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.

Q5. How many marks are required to pass NDA?

Ans. The minimum passing marks vary each year, but scoring around 350-400 marks generally ensures a call for the SSB interview.
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