The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna is Nigeria’s first military training institution, developed as a school for the training of officer cadets for commissioning into the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Established in 1964, the NDA, as the only military university in the country, combines world-class military training and serious academics.
The NDA is now receiving applications for the 78th Regular Course for the 2026 admission cycle. Applications will be accepted until April 30, 2026. This is a must read for candidates desiring to become commissioned officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and for individuals who are interested in one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in Nigeria.
What is NDA?
A is the abbreviation for Nigerian Defence Academy.
It is the institution that trains commissioned officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria. It is the only degree awarding military university in Nigeria.
The NDA is located in Kaduna State. The institution was set up in 1964 by an Act of Parliament. The NDA’s mission(s) is/are to combine the academic and professional aspects of military training and to award degrees to commissioned officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
NDA Kaduna: The Premier Military University
The NDA is located in Kaduna State, Northwestern Nigeria. Because of its highly ranked military training, the NDA is often referred to as the “West Point of Nigeria.”
Duration of Training
| Service Branch | Training Duration |
| Nigerian Army Cadets | 5 years |
| Nigerian Navy Cadets | 4 years |
| Nigerian Air Force Cadets | 4 years |
Upon completion, cadets are commissioned as officers into their respective service branches
What Are the 19 Courses in NDA and Their Cut-Offs?
The NDA offers a wide range of degree programmes across several faculties. Candidates are admitted based on their performance in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the NDA’s internal screening process.
NDA JAMB Cut-Off Marks for 2026/2027
The minimum UTME scores required to qualify for the NDA screening test are :
| Faculty | Minimum UTME Score |
| Faculties of Arts and Social Sciences | 180 |
| Faculty of Science | 180 |
| Faculty of Military Science & Interdisciplinary Studies | 180 |
| Faculty of Engineering | 210 |
Key Dates for 2026 Application
| Event | Date |
| Application Start Date | 28 November 2025 |
| Application Deadline | Thursday, April 30, 2026 |
| NDA Screening Test Date | June 13 , 2026 for 78 Regular Course Now extended to 20 June 2026. |
Important: Candidates must register for and sit the 2026 UTME , selecting the Nigerian Defence Academy as their first-choice institution
NDA Application Portal: How to Apply
The official NDA application portal is accessible through the following websites :
| Portal URL | Status |
| www.ndaapplications.net | Alternative Portal (Official) |
| www.nda.edu.ng | Main NDA Website |
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria (see section below).
Step 2: Register for JAMB UTME
Register for the 2026 UTME and choose NDA as your first choice. Score at least 180 (or 210 for Engineering) .
Step 3: Visit the Official Application Portal
Go to rcapplications.nda.edu.ng or www.ndaapplications.net.
Step 4: Create an Account
Register with a valid email address and phone number.
Step 5: Fill the Application Form
Provide personal details, educational qualifications, and JAMB registration number.
Step 6: Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of your credentials and passport photograph.
Step 7: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable application fee through the designated payment channels.
Step 8: Print Acknowledgment Slip
Print your application acknowledgment slip.
Step 9: Await Screening Test Invitation
If you meet the cut-off, you will receive an email to select your screening test centre .
NDA Admission Requirements for 78th Regular Course
Candidates applying for the 78th Regular Course must meet the following requirements :
| Requirement | Details |
| Nationality | Nigerian citizen (both male and female) |
| Age | At least 17 years old and NOT more than 21 years old by September 2026 |
| Marital Status | Single (no legal obligation to support a child or other individuals) |
| Height | Male: Minimum 1.68 meters; Female: Minimum 1.65 meters |
| Physical & Medical Fitness | Must be medically and physically fit with good moral character |
| O’Level Results | Minimum 5 credits in WAEC/NECO/GCE/NBAIS/NABTEB, including English Language and Mathematics, in not more than 2 sittings. Results must be not more than 5 years old from the examination date |
| JAMB UTME | Must have passed the 2026 UTME with NDA as first choice and attained the minimum cut-off (180/210) |
| State of Origin | Certificate of Indigeneship from state government or local government area |
| Language Advantage | Knowledge of French, Arabic, or Mandarin is an added advantage |
Documents NOT Accepted
- Awaiting results: Candidates awaiting O’Level results are NOT qualified to apply
- Applications without O’Level results: Forms submitted without O’Level results will be rejected
What Is an NDA Salary?
Upon graduation and commissioning as an officer, NDA cadets begin earning military salaries. The salary structure for Nigerian military personnel is based on rank, with commissioned officers earning significantly more than non-commissioned ranks.
Entry-Level Salary for NDA Graduates
Upon commissioning, an NDA graduate enters as a Second Lieutenant (Army) or its equivalent in the Navy and Air Force.
| Rank | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) | Estimated Annual Salary (₦) |
| Second Lieutenant | ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 | ₦2.160 million – ₦2.640 million |
NDA Cadet Allowance (During Training)
During their final year at the academy, cadets receive their first paycheck as part of their military training
NDA Screening Test Process for 2026
The NDA screening process for the 78th Regular Course consists of multiple stages .
Stage 1: UTME
Register for JAMB UTME, choose NDA as first choice, and score at least 180 (or 210 for Engineering).
Stage 2: NDA Screening Test
The nationwide screening test is scheduled for 20 June 2026. Eligible candidates will receive an email to select their preferred screening centre.
Stage 3: Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB)
Candidates who pass the screening test are invited to the NDA Kaduna for the AFSB interview, which includes:
- Medical and physical fitness examination
- Psychological assessment
- Oral interview
Stage 4: Final Admission
Successful candidates are offered admission into the 78th Regular Course.
Physical and Medical Requirements
Candidates must meet the following physical standards :
| Requirement | Male | Female |
| Minimum Height | 1.68 meters (approx. 5’6″) | 1.65 meters (approx. 5’5″) |
| Medical Fitness | Must pass military medical examination | Must pass military medical examination |
| Physical Fitness | Must pass physical fitness tests | Must pass physical fitness tests |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the NDA 78 Regular Course 2026 application form out?
YES. Applications for the 78th Regular Course are available. The application period opened on November 6, 2026, and will close on 20 June 2026..
2. What are the 19 courses in NDA and their cut-offs?
The NDA courses are categorized into different faculties. The minimum UTME cut-off is set at 180 for the Faculties of Arts and Social Sciences, Science and Military Science & Interdisciplinary Studies; and 210 for the Faculty of Engineering. Find more detailed information on all the course offerings and their associated UTME subject combinations in the section above.
3. Is the NDA application portal open for 2026?
No. it is closed already for application.
4. Can females apply to NDA?
YES. Admission in the NDA is open to all Nigerians, both male and female.
5. What is the age limit for NDA admission?
Applicants are to be a minimum of 17 years of age and not exceed the age of 21 years.
Final Thoughts
The Nigerian Defence Academy offers a unique opportunity for young Nigerians to serve their country while earning a world-class university degree. With the 78th Regular Course application window open until April 30, 2026, eligible candidates are encouraged to apply through the official portals.
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