Overview
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), based in Kaduna, trains future officers for the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, combining an academic degree with military training over several years. Admission is through a competitive entrance examination run by the Academy, alongside a Direct Short Service Commission route for graduates.
Who can apply
Regular Course applicants must be Nigerian citizens, generally aged between 18 and 22 years, unmarried, and hold the Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE/equivalent) with the required credit passes (including Mathematics and English Language), along with meeting height, physical fitness and medical standards for officer-cadet training.
Exam pattern
Selection generally includes a computer-based entrance examination covering subjects such as Mathematics, English Language and General Knowledge/current affairs, a medical screening, a physical fitness assessment, and an interview/selection board for candidates who pass the written stage.
How to apply
Applications are submitted online through the NDA's official recruitment portal, within the registration window announced for that year's Regular Course intake.
After the exam
Cadets who are admitted complete a multi-year programme combining academic study with military training, graduating with a degree and a commission as an officer in their chosen service branch.
Preparation tips
Because the entrance exam covers core academic subjects (Mathematics, English, General Knowledge) similar to other Nigerian tertiary entrance exams, standard secondary-school-level revision in these subjects, combined with fitness preparation for the physical assessment, is the standard approach.
What are the two main routes into the Nigerian Defence Academy?
The Regular Course, for younger candidates through a full entrance exam and selection process, and the Direct Short Service Commission route, for graduates.
What subjects does the NDA entrance exam cover?
Generally Mathematics, English Language and General Knowledge/current affairs.