The NDA 2 2026 written exam is over, so now focus on checking your expected score and understanding the cut-off, it is an important step. If your score looks competitive, start preparing for further steps like SSB with OIR, PPDT, Psychology, GTO and Personal Interview. Stay consistent; furthermore, improve your communication and confidence. In addition, begin your SSB preparation with Shield Defence Academy.
The NDA 2 2026 examination was conducted on 13 September 2026. Firstly, the written exam consisted of Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT), carrying a total of 900 marks. Subsequently, the next stage for candidates who qualify the written examination is the SSB selection process.
NDA 2 2026 Written Exam – Overview
Particular Details
Examination NDA 2 2026
Exam Date 13 September 2026
Mathematics 120 Questions – 300 Marks
GAT 150 Questions – 600 Marks
Total 270 Questions – 900 Marks
Next Stage SSB Interview
Selection Focus Written Exam + SSB
The written examination was broadly reported as easy to moderate, but performance depended heavily on accuracy, time management and question selection. If you are finding yourself near to the analyzed cutoff then don’t delay your SSB preparation as soon as possible. Stay consistent; furthermore, improve your communication and confidence, and subsequently, begin your SSB preparation with Shield Defence Academy.
First Step – Check Your Expected Score
Before starting SSB preparation, analyse your written paper properly. You can –
Compare your answers with a reliable answer key
Count your correct and incorrect responses
Consider negative marking
Estimate your probable score
Compare your marks with expected cut-off ranges
The analysis of Shield Defence Academy, a top SSB institute in Lucknow, placed the expected written cut-off around 310 to 325 for Army, 340 to 355 for Navy/NA, and 345 to 360 for Air Force. However, these are only expected ranges, not official UPSC cut-offs. Therefore, do not become overconfident or lose hope based only on an expected cut-off. Ultimately, the official result and cut-off will serve as the final benchmark.
What Should You Prepare for SSB?
If your estimated score looks competitive, then do not wait for the result. Instead, start understanding the SSB process now.
- OIR Preparation Officer Intelligence Rating is an important part of the screening stage; therefore, it is essential to practise verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions regularly. Focus on –
Analogy
Series
Coding-decoding
Classification
Logical reasoning
Spatial understanding
- PPDT Preparation Picture Perception and Discussion Test requires observation; moreover, it involves story writing and, in addition, group discussion. Practise –
Observing pictures quickly
Creating a practical story
Speaking clearly
Listening to others
Participating without dominating
- Psychology Preparation The psychology stage includes activities such as TAT, WAT and SRT. The aim should not be to memorise artificial answers. Instead, work on these given things –
Clear thinking
Positive approach
Decision-making
Situation handling
Consistency
Awareness of your own personality
- GTO Preparation GTO activities involve group interaction and practical situations. Candidates should develop –
Teamwork
Communication
Cooperation
Leadership
Problem-solving
Physical confidence
You do not need to dominate every activity. Being a useful and responsible team member is equally important. By joining Shield Defence Academy, you are going to learn the same things; consequently, these will help you in your upcoming SSB interview.
- Personal Interview Start preparing your personal information before the interview. Revise these things –
Your academic background
Family details
Hobbies and interests
School experiences
Achievements
Strengths and areas for improvement
Current affairs
Defence-related awareness
Reasons for joining the Armed Forces
A Simple SSB Preparation Plan
Time Focus
Morning Current affairs + communication
Afternoon OIR/PPDT practice
Evening Psychology/GTO activities
Night Interview preparation + self-analysis
Always try to stay consistent because consistency is more useful than studying for long hours on one day and taking several days off.
What If Your Score Is Below the Expected Cut-Off?
Do not treat one examination as the end of your defence journey. Firstly, identify the reason behind your performance, which is important. Furthermore, use these mistakes to improve your preparation for the next opportunity.
Weak concepts?
Calculation mistakes?
Poor time management?
Too many risky attempts?
Lack of revision?
Start Your SSB Preparation with Shield Defence Academy
For aspirants who expect to clear NDA 2 2026, Shield Defence Academy, notably, is well known for its highest selection rate in the NDA exam. Furthermore, SDA provides structured NDA and SSB preparation in Lucknow. In addition, candidates can work on OIR, PPDT, Psychology, GTO, Interview preparation, communication, and personality development with focused guidance. The important thing now is to move from exam analysis to action. Waiting for the result is understandable, but preparation should continue.
Conclusion
The NDA 2 2026 written exam is now over, but the selection journey does not end with the written paper. If your estimated score looks competitive, then start preparing for SSB today. First, understand the process; next, practise consistently; furthermore, improve communication; and finally, work on the qualities expected from an officer. With the right preparation strategy by Shield Defence Academy, the best NDA coaching classes in Lucknow and a calm approach, you can enter the SSB stage with greater confidence.
