Are you aspiring to join the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna for the 2025/2026 academic session? Knowing the JAMB cut-off mark is key to securing a spot in this prestigious military university. This guide covers the latest NDA cut-off marks, departmental requirements, admission criteria, and tips to boost your chances of becoming an officer cadet in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
About Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)
Established in 1964, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna is Nigeria’s premier military university, training officer cadets for the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Offering a five-year program (four years academic, one year military for Army cadets; four years for Navy/Air Force), NDA combines rigorous academic and military training. With competitive programs like Engineering, Computer Science, and Defence Studies, meeting the cut-off mark is the first step to admission.
NDA JAMB Cut-Off Mark for 2025/2026
Based on recent data, the NDA JAMB cut-off mark for the 2025/2026 academic session is expected to align with previous years, as announced by the NDA and JAMB.
The general cut-off marks are:
- Faculties of Arts and Social Sciences, Science, Military Science & Interdisciplinary Studies: 180
Includes courses like Computer Science, Accounting, Political Science, and Defence Studies. - Faculty of Engineering: 210
Covers programs like Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
Note: Departmental cut-off marks may be higher based on course competitiveness, applicant performance, and admission quotas. For example, courses like Computer Science or Engineering often require scores above the minimum due to high demand. Always verify exact cut-offs on the official NDA website (nda.edu.ng) after JAMB results are released.
Departmental Cut-Off Marks (Estimated)
While exact departmental cut-offs for 2025/2026 are not yet released, here are estimated benchmarks based on trends from 2024/2025:
- Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical): 210–250
- Computer Science, Cyber Security: 180–220
- Accounting, Economics, Management Sciences: 180–200
- Political Science, Defence and Security Studies: 180–200
- Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Physics: 180–200
Important: NDA does not offer Nursing or Medicine, so there are no cut-off marks for these programs. Candidates must score at least 25% in the General Ability Test (GAT) and Mathematics during the NDA screening exam to proceed.
NDA Admission Requirements
To qualify for NDA admission, candidates must meet these criteria:
- JAMB UTME Score: Minimum of 180 (Arts, Social Sciences, Science, Military Science) or 210 (Engineering) in the 2025 UTME.
- O’Level Results: Five credits, including English Language and Mathematics, in not more than two sittings (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB). Relevant subjects like Physics and Chemistry are required for science/engineering courses.
- Age: 17–21 years old by August 2025.
- Physical and Medical Fitness: Candidates must be at least 168 cm (males) or 165 cm (females) tall and medically fit.
- Marital Status: Must be single with no legal dependents.
- NDA Screening Test: Pass the NDA entrance exam and Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) interview.
- JAMB Choice: Select NDA as your first choice during UTME registration or change to NDA via the JAMB portal.
How to Apply for NDA 2025/2026
- Check JAMB Score: Ensure you score 180+ (or 210+ for Engineering) in the 2025 UTME.
- Purchase NDA Form: Visit www.nda.edu.ng to buy the application form (cost: ~₦3,500, subject to confirmation).
- Complete Application: Submit your JAMB details, O’Level results, and personal information online.
- Attend Screening: Participate in the NDA screening test (scheduled for May/June 2025, check the NDA portal for updates).
- Prepare for AFSB: Shortlisted candidates undergo a rigorous interview, medical, and physical fitness tests.
Tip: Avoid agents claiming to assist with admission, as scams are common. Use only official NDA channels.
Tips to Meet or Exceed NDA Cut-Off Marks
- Aim High: Score 200+ (or 230+ for Engineering) to stand out in competitive courses.
- Prepare for Screening: Study past NDA screening questions, focusing on GAT and Mathematics.
- Strengthen O’Levels: Ensure credits in key subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Technical Drawing for technical courses.
- Stay Updated: Monitor www.nda.edu.ng for announcements on cut-offs and screening dates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the NDA cut-off mark for 2025/2026?
The general cut-off is 180 for Arts, Social Sciences, Science, and Military Science, and 210 for Engineering. Departmental cut-offs may be higher.
Can I apply to NDA with a JAMB score of 170?
No, 170 is below the minimum cut-off of 180 for most courses and 210 for Engineering. Consider other institutions with lower cut-offs.
Does NDA offer Nursing or Medicine?
No, NDA does not offer Nursing or Medicine. Check institutions like the Nigerian Army College of Nursing for such programs.
How is the NDA aggregate score calculated?
It combines your JAMB score and NDA screening test performance. Exact weighting varies by year.
Where can I check the latest NDA cut-off marks?
Visit www.nda.edu.ng or contact the NDA admissions office for updates.
Conclusion
The NDA cut-off mark for 2025/2026 is 180 for most courses and 210 for Engineering, with departmental cut-offs potentially higher based on competition. Meeting these marks, along with O’Level, physical, and screening requirements, is crucial for admission into this elite military university. Start preparing early, aim for a high JAMB score, and stay informed via www.nda.edu.ng.
Ready to become an NDA cadet? Apply now at www.nda.edu.ng and ace your JAMB and screening exams! Have questions about NDA cut-off marks or admission? Leave a comment below, and we’ll respond quickly!