Insight

• Ikiodiete George
• 4 Min Read

How To Easily Prepare For Nda Entrance Exams (2025 Success Guide)

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) is the dream of many young Nigerians who want to build a career in the military with a solid academic foundation. But before you earn that prestigious cadet spot, you must pass the NDA entrance examination—a tough but totally beatable hurdle.

If you're asking, "How do I easily prepare for the NDA exam?", then you're in the right place. This 2025 updated guide will walk you through the best strategies, tips, materials, and tricks to crush the NDA exam and secure your place at the academy.

What Is the NDA Entrance Exam?

The NDA entrance exam is a highly competitive test for admission into the 71st Regular Course (or whichever current year) of the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna. Successful candidates proceed to the Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) for physical and medical screening.

Subjects Written in the NDA Exam

The exam is divided into two sections:

• Paper 1: Mathematics and General Knowledge (Compulsory for all candidates)
• Paper 2: One subject relevant to your course of study:
• Physics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Economics
• Geography
• Government
• History
• Literature in English
• CRS/IRS

Eligibility Checklist

Before you start preparing, make sure you're eligible:

• SSCE, NECO, or GCE with at least 5 credits including English and Mathematics (not more than two sittings).
• Age: 16 to 21 years
• Single and medically fit
• Must sit for JAMB and select NDA as your first choice
• Minimum 180 JAMB score for Arts & Social Sciences; 210+ for Sciences and Engineering

How to Easily Prepare for NDA Entrance Exams

Here are proven steps to help you prepare the smart way:

1. Understand the Exam Format and Syllabus

Before opening a single book, download and study the NDA syllabus. Understand:

• The structure of Paper 1 and Paper 2
• Subjects relevant to your department (Arts, Sciences, Engineering)
• Types of questions (mostly objective/multiple choice)

Pro Tip: Past questions give you a direct look at the format. Study them thoroughly.

2. Get the Right Study Materials

Don't just read any textbook—get the right materials that match NDA’s standard.

Essential resources:

• NDA Past Questions (at least 10 years back)
• WAEC/NECO standard textbooks for English, Maths, Physics, Government, etc.
• JAMB and UTME prep books
• Flashcards or mobile apps (like MPrep, Pass.ng)

3. Create a Study Timetable

A realistic study timetable will help you stay consistent. Divide your schedule like this:

4. Focus on Past Questions

80% of NDA exam questions are often repeated or restructured from previous years.

• Practice past questions under exam conditions.
• Use a stopwatch to simulate real-time.
• Track and correct your mistakes.

Buy original NDA past question booklets or download PDF versions from reliable sources.

5. Prepare for Physical & Mental Fitness

While the exam is your first focus, don’t ignore physical fitness because if you pass the exam, you’ll face:

• Physical screening (running, sit-ups, push-ups)
• Medical test
• Interview and character screening

Start jogging, eating well, and staying fit. You’ll thank yourself later.

6. Join a Trusted NDA Tutorial or Online Class

There are online platforms, WhatsApp groups, and coaching centers focused on NDA prep.

Benefits:

• Group motivation
• Live classes and mock tests
• Access to mentors who passed the exam

Don’t isolate yourself—learning with others improves retention.

7. Sharpen Your English & Essay Skills

Though mostly objective, NDA sometimes includes essay questions or comprehension passages in the General Knowledge section.

Practice:

• Essay writing on current national issues
• Letter writing and comprehension

This will boost your confidence in Paper 1.

8. Use Online Tools & NDA Mobile Apps

There are great Android apps and websites to test yourself daily.

Recommended NDA prep apps:

• Pass.NG
• MPrep
• Ulesson
• Quizlet (for flashcard practice)
• YouTube channels that break down NDA past questions

What to Expect on Exam Day

• NDA exams are held nationwide in centers like Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Enugu, etc.
• Bring: Printout of NDA application form, JAMB slip, passport, and writing materials
• Dress neatly (preferably in white and black)

Bonus Tips for NDA Success

• Revise daily, even if it’s just 1 hour.
• Avoid distractions (especially social media).
• Don’t cram—understand what you’re reading.
• Solve mathematics daily to build confidence.
• Stay informed on current affairs—they appear in the GK section.

NDA Exam FAQs

❓ Do I need to write JAMB for NDA?

Yes. NDA candidates must apply for JAMB, select NDA as first choice, and score the required cutoff.

❓ Can I use awaiting result?

Yes, but you must have your result ready before training begins. Otherwise, you’ll be disqualified.

❓ How many candidates are selected yearly?

NDA shortlists less than 400–500 candidates out of tens of thousands. That’s why early and smart preparation is key.

❓ Can females apply to NDA?

Yes! NDA now accepts female cadets into select departments including Arts, Sciences, and some Engineering disciplines.

❓ What’s the NDA 2025 exam cutoff?

There’s no fixed cutoff, but 180 for Arts and 210+ for Sciences/Engineering is recommended to stay competitive.

Conclusion: NDA Success Begins with Strategy

Preparing for the NDA entrance exam isn’t about reading hard—it’s about reading smart. Understand the format, get the right materials, stay consistent, and test yourself regularly.

With the right mindset and discipline, you can conquer the NDA exam and begin your journey to becoming one of Nigeria’s elite military officers.