Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Admission Requirements 2026/2027

Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), located in Kaduna, is Nigeria's premier military university responsible for training officer cadets for the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force. Unlike conventional universities, NDA combines academic education with rigorous military training.

If you are planning to apply for admission into NDA for the 2026/2027 academic session, this comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know including NDA cut-off mark, screening test requirements, Armed Forces Selection Board process, O'Level requirements and military training structure.

About Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)

Established in 1964, NDA is a federal military institution that awards Bachelor's degrees while simultaneously training cadets as commissioned officers in the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Upon successful completion of training, cadets earn a Bachelor's degree and are commissioned as Second Lieutenants (Army), Sub-Lieutenants (Navy) or Pilot Officers (Air Force).

NDA JAMB Cut-Off Mark for 2026/2027

Candidates must register and sit for the JAMB UTME before applying to NDA.

General Cut-Off Marks

• Arts & Social Sciences: 180+
• Sciences & Engineering: 210+

Meeting the JAMB cut-off mark qualifies you to sit for the NDA Screening Test, which is mandatory.

NDA Screening & Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB)

The NDA admission process involves multiple stages:

Stage 1: JAMB UTME

Candidates must meet NDA's minimum UTME score.

Stage 2: NDA Screening Test

Qualified candidates sit for the NDA aptitude test conducted nationwide.

Stage 3: Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB)

Shortlisted candidates undergo intensive screening including:

• Medical examination
• Physical fitness test
• Psychological evaluation
• Oral interview
• Character assessment

Only candidates who pass all stages are admitted.

NDA O'Level Requirements

Candidates must possess at least five (5) credit passes including:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Three other relevant subjects

Results must not exceed two sittings. Science courses require Physics and Chemistry.

Correct UTME Subject Combination for NDA

Engineering Courses

English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry

Sciences

English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry/Biology

Social Sciences

English, Mathematics, Economics, Government/Geography

Arts

English and three relevant arts subjects

Courses Offered in NDA

• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Computer Science
• Cyber Security
• Economics
• Political Science
• History & War Studies
• Geography
• Psychology
• Biological Sciences
• Physics

Duration of NDA Training

Training at NDA lasts five (5) years:

• Four years academic degree program
• One year military training

Cadets receive full sponsorship including tuition, accommodation, feeding and uniforms.

Important Admission Tips for NDA Aspirants

• Prepare thoroughly for NDA screening test
• Maintain excellent physical fitness
• Ensure correct UTME subject combination
• Meet age requirement (usually 17–21 years)
• Monitor NDA official portal regularly

Admission into NDA is highly competitive and requires academic excellence, physical fitness and strong character.