The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, has officially opened its application portal for the 78 Regular Course (78RC) for the 2025/2026 session. Interested male and female applicants can now begin their registration for the five-year military and academic programme that leads to a bachelor’s degree and a commission into any branch of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Application is open from 28 November 2025 to 30 April 2026.
Below is a simplified guide covering the major things every applicant must know — including requirements, fees, screening details, and FAQs.
Quick Overview (Table)
| Item | Key Information |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | www.ndaapplications.net |
| Registration Period | 28 Nov 2025 – 30 Apr 2026 |
| Application Fee | ₦7,000 (via REMITA) |
| UTME Requirement | Must choose NDA as first choice |
| Cut-off Mark | 210 (Engineering), 180 (Others) |
| Screening Date | 6 June 2026 |
| Training Duration | 5 years |
| Eligible Applicants | Male & Female Nigerians |
| Documents Required | SSCE result, JAMB slip, passport photos, acknowledgement card |
| Next Stage After Exam | Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) |
Who Can Apply for NDA 78RC?
Admission is open to young Nigerians who meet academic, physical, and medical standards set by the Academy. Candidates must be within the approved age bracket and possess the required SSCE subjects relevant to their chosen course. Knowledge of foreign languages such as French or Arabic is an added advantage.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
- Minimum five (5) credit passes in SSCE/NECO/NABTEB (not more than 2 sittings).
- Must register for 2026 JAMB UTME.
- Must select NDA as first-choice institution.
- Required UTME scores:
- 210 for Engineering courses
- 180 for other faculties
Other Requirements
- Applicant must be Nigerian by birth.
- Must be medically and physically fit.
- Age must fall within the NDA-approved range.
- Birth certificate and certificate of origin are compulsory.
How to Apply for NDA 78 Regular Course (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow these steps to complete your application successfully:
1. Visit the Official Portal
Go to the official portal and click on Purchase Access Code to begin.
2. Pay the Application Fee
- Pay ₦7,000 via REMITA.
- Only RRR codes generated from the NDA portal are valid.
3. Complete the Online Form
Provide accurate personal, academic, and contact details.
Upload your SSCE result and other required documents.
4. Print Your Acknowledgement Slip
After submission, print your Acknowledgement Form.
5. Register for JAMB
- Apply for JAMB
- Choose NDA as first-choice
- Sit for the UTME
6. Print the Screening Test Card
Once you meet the UTME cut-off, you will be able to print your Screening Test Admission Card from the portal.
NDA Screening Test (Phase 1)
The 2026 screening exam will hold on:
Saturday, 6 June 2026
Candidates must come with:
- Screening Test Card
- Acknowledgement Form
- JAMB result slip
- Two (2) postcard-size photographs (3.5 × 5 inches)
Only applicants who pass this stage will move on to the Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) — the final stage before admission.
Duration of Training
All selected cadets will undergo five years of combined military drills and academic studies, graduating with a degree and receiving a Presidential Commission into the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
FAQs About NDA 78RC Admission
1. Is the NDA form for 2025/2026 out?
Yes. The NDA 78 Regular Course form is now available online.
2. How much is the NDA application form?
The form costs ₦7,000, payable via REMITA.
3. Do I need JAMB to apply for NDA?
Yes. All candidates must sit for the JAMB UTME and select NDA as first choice.
4. Can females apply?
Yes, female applicants are fully eligible.
5. What is the NDA cut-off mark?
- 210 for Engineering
- 180 for all other courses
6. Can I use two sittings?
Yes. NDA accepts SSCE/NECO/NABTEB results in two sittings.
7. When is the NDA screening exam?
The exam will hold on 6 June 2026 nationwide.
8. How long is NDA training?
Training lasts five academic years.
9. Are application fees refundable?
No. All payments are non-refundable.
10. Where can I get NDA past questions?
At the NDA Registry the Academy sells an official Compendium of Past Questions & Answers.
Registration for the NDA 78 Regular Course is time-sensitive. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early, prepare for JAMB, and follow all instructions strictly to avoid disqualification. All official updates should be obtained from NDA portal.
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