The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) is a prestigious institution that trains officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The NDA offers a four-year program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree in various disciplines. The NDA also provides military and leadership training to its cadets, who are expected to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, and patriotism. In this post, you will learn what the NDA Admission Requirements.
What are the Requirements for NDA?
To qualify for admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), applicants must:
- Be Nigerian citizens with a valid National ID Card
- Obtain an Indigeneship Certificate from state/local government
- Be single with no legal obligation to support dependents
- Be between 17-21 years old as of August 2024
- Have a minimum of 5 credits (including English & Math) at SSCE/GCE O-Levels in no more than 2 sittings
- Meet minimum cutoff marks in the JAMB UTME exam
- Be at least 1.68 meters (men) or 1.65 meters (women) tall
- Pass the NDA entrance exam and Armed Forces Selection Board interviews
- Be medically and physically fit
- Demonstrate good moral character
Have French, Arabic, or Mandarin language skills (advantageous)
The - NDA has strict eligibility criteria aimed at identifying the most qualified candidates to train as military officers. Meeting all academic, physical, and personal requirements is necessary for prospective cadets to be considered for admission.
NDA Admission Overview
Choosing Your Course
- Review programs offered across NDA’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and Faculty of Science departments
- Apply only for courses you meet the eligibility criteria for
NDA Online Application
- Create an account on the NDA admissions portal
- Submit application form with personal/academic details
- Upload a passport photo and pay a ₦3,500 fee
- Select the preferred NDA exam center
NDA Entrance Examinations
- Take the annual NDA exam (April) – 2 papers: Math/English and General Knowledge
- Score a minimum of 180 UTME points and 40% in each NDA subject
NDA Selection Process
- Attend Armed Forces Selection Board interviews (June/July)
- Undergo medical testing, fitness evaluation, exams, and personality assessments
NDA Admission Decision
- Check the NDA website/email for admission status
- Receive an official admission letter with program details
If admitted, undertake 5 years of military and academic training, graduating with an honors degree and Presidential Commission.
Here is an updated summary of the key eligibility criteria to apply for the NDA regular course in 2023:
Citizenship and Age
- Be a Nigerian citizen with a valid National ID number (NIN)
- Be between 17-21 years as of August 2023
Academics
- Have a minimum of 5 credits (including English & Math) at SSCE/GCE O-Levels in no more than 2 sittings
- Meet cut-off marks in the JAMB UTME exam for relevant subjects
Physical Standards
- Male: Height of at least 1.68 meters
- Female: Height of at least 1.65 meters
- Be medically and physically fit
Personal Attributes
- Single with no legal obligation to support dependents
- Good moral character
Documentation
- Present Indigeneship Certificate from State/LGA
Additional Credentials
French, Arabic, or Mandarin language skills (advantageous)
Meeting all the above criteria is mandatory to be eligible for NDA’s highly competitive admission process as a cadet. This ensures only the most qualified candidates are selected.
How to Apply for the NDA Program
If you are interested in applying for admission into the NDA 76th Regular Course, you need to follow these steps:
- Verify you meet all eligibility criteria
- Visit NDA’s admissions portal and create an account
- Pay a non-refundable ₦3,500 application fee
- Complete all sections of the application accurately
- Download Acknowledgement and Consent Forms
- If shortlisted, select preferred NDA entrance exam center
- Pass NDA exam (minimum 180 UTME, 40% per subject)
- Attend Armed Forces Selection Board interviews
- Await admission decision via NDA website/email
Can Foreign Students Apply For NDA?
Unfortunately, the NDA Regular Course is only open to Nigerian citizens. However, international students may consider NDA’s graduate programs or applying to India’s National Defence Academy.
The NDA offers a world-class officer training experience. If you have the drive and meet the requirements, take advantage of this life-shaping opportunity to lead in the service of our country.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) is a highly reputable and competitive institution that produces well-trained and disciplined officers for the Nigerian Armed Forces. If you have the passion, ambition and determination to join the NDA, you need to prepare well and meet the requirements for admission. You also need to apply early and follow the instructions carefully. We wish you all the best in your quest to join the NDA. For more details please visit their Official Website.