The NDA 1 2026 answer key provides correct answers for all four sets (A, B, C, D) of both the Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT) papers. It allows you to cross-check your responses, estimate your score, and plan the next steps even before the official results from UPSC.
When Will the Answer Key Be Released?
Unofficial coach-led keys (from New Careers Academy etc.) typically come out within a few hours to days after the exam. Points to expect:
Released for both sets A–D, separately for Maths and GAT.
Ideal for self-analysis and score projection
Official UPSC answer key may be published only with final results, several weeks after the exam
How to Use NDA 1 2026 Answer Key to Estimate Your Score
Download answer keys for your specific set (A/B/C/D).
Use the marking scheme:
Maths: 2.5 marks per correct, –0.83 or 1/3 wrong.
GAT: 4 marks per correct, similar negative marking scheme
Add both papers for total estimate out of 900.
Compare with recent cut‑offs (~650+ total, ~25% per paper) to gauge likelihood of qualifying
Benefits of Checking the Answer Key Early
Track performance immediately and identify strong versus weak areas.
Calculate probable score and check if you qualify section-wise.
Fast‑track SSB preparation for those likely to clear the written stage.
Minimise anxiety by validating your efforts well before results.
Preparation Tips Based on Key Insights
Review incorrectly answered questions topic‑wise (e.g. algebra, English grammar, General Knowledge).
Adjust your strategy for NDA 2 2026 using analytics on time‑per‑question and topic accuracy.
If you’re close to cut‑off, begin SSB interview preparations early—including GTOs and personal interview practice.
Plan revision for weaker sections using mock tests under timed conditions.
Why Choose New Careers Academy to Crack NDA 2 2026?
Decades of Experience: Coaching since 1967, with over 38,000 defence selections—a proven legacy
Complete Exam Coverage: Notes guarantee covering 90% of the NDA syllabus. Updated regularly to reflect current trends and tests.
Full‑Length Mocks & Set‑Wise Practice: All sets A–D practice plus realistic simulation of actual exam conditions.
End‑to‑End NDA + SSB Support: Includes psychological test prep, GTO, personal interviews, CPSS (for Flying aspirants), and mock boards led by ex‑GTOs and psychologists
Personalized Mentoring & Doubt Clinics: One-to-one guidance, weekly progress reports, topic-specific doubt sessions.
Exam‑centric Physical Fitness Training: Integrated sessions for NDA-required physical fitness level and endurance.
Online & Onsite Flexibility: Live online classes plus classroom batches in Mohali/Chandigarh for students across India.
FAQs: NDA 1 2026 Answer Key
Q1. Where can I download NDA 1 2026 answer keys for all sets?
You can find PDF downloads from trusted coaching institutes like New Careers Academy, once the exam is complete and unofficial keys are released
Q2. Is the official UPSC answer key released separately?
UPSC usually does not release a separate answer key until final results; unofficial keys from coaching centers serve as the main resource immediately after the exam
Q3. How accurate are unofficial answer keys?
High credibility—most coaching institutes use expert faculty and cross-validated methods to match UPSC standards. Minor discrepancies may exist, but they are reliable for estimating performance.
Q4. How is negative marking applied?
Mathematics: +2.5 per correct, –0.83 for wrong. GAT: +4 per correct, –1.33 for wrong (approx. 1/3 rule)
Q5. What if I score near cut‑off based on the key?
Begin your SSB preparation immediately, including mock interviews, GTO tasks and personal interview practice to stay ahead of the competition.
Q6. When will NDA 2 2026 preparation begin?
Once you analyze your NDA 1 performance, start revision – New Careers Academy’s batches for NDA 2 2026 often commence soon after key release with tailored modules and feedback.
Final Thoughts
Checking the NDA 1 2026 answer key for all sets offers key clarity on your performance and informs preparation strategies for NDA 2 2026 and the SSB stage. It allows realistic score estimates and helps you plan next steps with confidence.
New Careers Academy stands out as the most comprehensive coaching choice with decades‑long experience, end‑to‑end academic and interview guidance, personalized mentoring, and proven success records.
Preparing seriously? Get your NDA answer key fast, analyze your results section‑wise, and start planning for NDA 2 2026—preferably with expert support and structure at New Careers Academy.
