This is to inform the general public, particularly prospective military officers and undergraduate candidates, that the online application process for admission into the 78th Regular Course of the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, will commence on Friday, 28th November 2025, and will close on 30th April 2026.
In a significant move towards inclusivity and gender equality in the Armed Forces of Nigeria, admission into the NDA is open to both MALE and FEMALE Nigerian citizens who meet the specified criteria.
This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information regarding the application process, method of application, admission requirements, and screening test conditions for the 2026 academic session.
APPLICATION FORMS: How to Purchase and Access the Form
The NDA has streamlined its application process to be fully online, ensuring transparency and accessibility for candidates across the nation.
Prospective candidates are advised to follow the steps below meticulously to avoid disqualification.
Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing the NDA Application Form
- Visit the Official Portal: Candidates should log on to the official NDA application portal at www.ndaapplications.net. It is crucial to use only this official website to avoid scams and fraudulent activities.
- Generate RRR Code: On the portal, navigate to the option that says “Purchase Access Code.” You will be required to fill in your personal details accurately.
- Payment via REMITA: After filling in your details, you will generate a Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) Code. The application fee is a non-refundable sum of ₦7,000.00 (Seven Thousand Naira Only) .
- Important Note: Please be aware that only payments made against RRR Codes generated through the official application portal will be accepted. Payments made through any other channel or third party will not be recognized.
- Complete the Application: Once payment is confirmed, you can proceed to fill the comprehensive application form online.
METHOD OF APPLICATION: A Detailed Walkthrough
Interested and eligible candidates are strongly advised to take a methodical approach to completing their applications.
Online Completion and Document Upload
- Fill the Form: Access the application portal using your credentials and carefully fill out all required fields. Ensure that the information provided matches your official documents perfectly.
- Download Instructions: The NDA website contains a detailed instruction guide for candidates. It is mandatory to download, read, and understand these instructions thoroughly before proceeding with the application to prevent errors.
- Upload Required Documents: As part of the online submission, candidates are required to upload a scanned copy of their O’Level results, such as SSCE (WAEC), NECO, or their equivalent. Ensure the scanned copies are clear and legible.
The Critical JAMB Requirement
This is one of the most important aspects of the admission process that candidates must not overlook:
- Dual Application is Mandatory: All applicants seeking admission into the NDA must also apply to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) .
- First Choice Institution: Candidates must select the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, as their FIRST CHOICE INSTITUTION during their JAMB registration.
- UTME Examination: Such applicants are expected to sit for the JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and must attain the required score for their chosen faculty.
SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS: Finalizing Your Entry
The final stage of the application process involves submitting all the provided information correctly.
- Online Submission: All application forms must be completed and submitted online before the deadline of 30th April 2026. Late submissions will not be entertained.
- Download Acknowledgement Form: Upon successful submission of the online application, candidates are required to download an Acknowledgement Form. This form serves as proof of application and contains important details for future reference.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: Eligibility and Qualifications
The NDA is a highly competitive institution, and candidates must meet specific academic and personal criteria to be considered.
General Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Candidates must be Nigerian citizens.
- Age: Applicants must be between the ages of 17 and 21 years old at the time of admission.
- Physical Fitness: Candidates must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit according to NDA and Armed Forces standards.
- Character: Candidates must be of good moral character and have no criminal record.
Academic Requirements
- O’Level Results: Candidates must possess at least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, at not more than two (2) sittings. Accepted examinations include SSCE (WAEC), NECO, or equivalent.
- Validity of Results: Please note that results from SSCE, NECO, or equivalent must not be more than 5 years old as of the time of admission.
- UTME Score: A minimum UTME score is required to qualify for the next stage:
- Engineering Courses: Candidates applying for Engineering courses must have a UTME score of 210 and above.
- Other Faculties: Candidates applying for Arts, Social Sciences, and Sciences must have a UTME score of 180 and above.
- Post-UTME: In addition to the UTME, candidates must sit for and perform well in the NDA Screening Test.
- Added Advantage: While not compulsory, knowledge of French or Arabic language will be an added advantage for applicants.
SEE FULL REQUIREMENTS HERE
Programme Details
Detailed information concerning the specific undergraduate degree programmes offered, course requirements, and eligibility for each faculty (Arts, Social Sciences, Sciences, and Engineering) is available on the NDA website and the application portal.
SCREENING TEST CONDITIONS: What to Expect
The screening test is a critical phase of the admission process, designed to select the best candidates for military training and academic excellence.
Qualification for the Screening Test
Only candidates who satisfy all the following conditions will be enabled to print the Screening Test Admission Card and participate in the NDA Screening Test:
- Fulfilled Admission Requirements: Must have met the academic and general eligibility criteria listed above.
- Valid UTME Score: Must possess the required UTME score (210 for Engineering, 180 for other faculties).
- JAMB First Choice: Must have selected NDA as their first choice institution in JAMB.
Screening Test Centres
Candidates who qualify will be able to select their preferred Screening Test Centre. A list of available centres across the country is provided on the NDA website and application portal.
What to Bring to the Screening Test
Successful candidates are to print their Screening Test Admission Card from the portal and bring it to the test centre, along with their JAMB result slip and other relevant credentials.
SCREENING TEST DATE AND REQUIREMENTS: Phase One of the Post-UTME
The NDA Screening Test, which constitutes Phase One of the Post-UTME screening process, is a crucial gateway for all aspiring cadets. This examination is designed to assess the candidates’ mental aptitude, academic prowess, and general knowledge, ensuring that only the most qualified individuals advance to the next stage of selection.
Test Date and Venue
The screening test is scheduled to be held on Saturday, 6th June 2026. Candidates must arrive at their chosen examination centres early, as strict timekeeping is observed, and latecomers will not be permitted entry. The list of approved screening centres across the federation, including their specific locations, is available on the NDA application portal.
Essential Documents to Bring
Candidates are required to come with the following mandatory documents; failure to present any of these items may result in disqualification:
- Acknowledgement Form: Downloaded from the application portal after successful submission.
- Screening Test Admission Card: Printed from the portal only after qualification (based on UTME score and meeting requirements).
- JAMB Result Slip: The official printout of the UTME result, showing the candidate’s photograph and scores.
- Postcard-Sized Photographs: Candidates must bring TWO (2) postcard-sized photographs (3.5 x 5 inches) .
- Specifications: The photographs must show the candidate’s chest upwards (passport style).
- Endorsement: On the reverse side of each photograph, candidates must clearly write the following information in indelible ink:
- Candidate’s Full Name
- Examination Number
- State of Origin
- Examination Centre
- Course of Study
- Candidate’s Signature
Post-Screening: The Path to Commissioning
Only candidates who successfully pass the NDA Screening Test (Phase One) will be shortlisted and subsequently invited for the Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) , which represents Phase Two of the screening process.
- Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB): This is a comprehensive and rigorous exercise that typically includes further testing of physical fitness, medical examinations, psychological assessments, and interviews. It is designed to holistically evaluate a candidate’s suitability for the military profession.
- Final Selection List: Following the conclusion of the AFSB, the list of candidates successfully admitted into the 78th Regular Course will be published on the official NDA website and portal.
NATURE AND DURATION OF TRAINING: The Journey to Becoming an Officer
Candidates who are successfully admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy for the 78th Regular Course will embark on a transformative journey that is both mentally and physically demanding. The programme is meticulously designed to forge well-rounded officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Duration of Programme
The training programme spans a duration of 5 years. During this period, officer cadets will reside within the academy and undergo an integrated curriculum that combines rigorous military training with intense academic pursuit.
Dual Qualification: Degree and Commission
Upon successful completion of the 5-year programme, graduands will achieve two significant milestones:
- Academic Excellence: Graduands will earn an honours degree in a core discipline. The NDA offers a wide array of courses across its faculties, including:
- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in various Arts and Social Science subjects.
- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in pure and applied Sciences.
- Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) in various Engineering fields.
These degrees are awarded in affiliation with Nigeria’s premier university, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and are fully recognized both nationally and internationally.
- Presidential Commission: In addition to their academic degree, successful cadets will equally earn a Presidential Commission into the Armed Forces of Nigeria. This commission officially appoints them as officers in one of the three services:
- Nigerian Army
- Nigerian Navy
- Nigerian Air Force
Conclusion
The journey to becoming an officer in the Nigerian Armed Forces begins with a successful application to the NDA. All interested candidates are encouraged to begin their preparations early, ensure they meet all the requirements, and follow the application instructions carefully.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official NDA website and application portal.
Good luck to all prospective candidates for the 78th Regular Course.