If you’re a student in Class 8 to 10 and already aiming for the National Defence Academy (NDA), you’re on the right track. Starting early gives you a strong foundation in academics, physical fitness, and discipline — all essential to crack the NDA written exam and the SSB interview later on.
Here’s a complete guide to NDA coaching for students from Class 8 to 10, including what it involves, benefits, top academies, and preparation tips.
🎯 Why Start NDA Preparation from Class 8 to 10?
Starting NDA coaching early gives you the best chance of success because:
NDA syllabus is based on Class 11 & 12 topics, especially in Maths and Science
Early preparation builds strong fundamentals
Helps develop discipline, fitness, and confidence
Provides time to develop leadership and communication skills
You can prepare for Sainik Schools, RIMC, or Military School admissions as well
🔍 What Does NDA Foundation Coaching Include (Class 8 to 10)?
An NDA Foundation Course is specially designed for students in Classes 8, 9, or 10. It includes:
1. Academic Coaching
Focus on school subjects: Maths, Science, English, Social Studies
Emphasis on CBSE/ICSE syllabus with NDA-related content
NCERT-based approach to strengthen concepts early
2. NDA-Oriented Training
Basic coverage of NDA Maths and GAT syllabus
Introduction to History, Polity, Geography, General Science
Vocabulary building, English grammar, and reading comprehension
3. Physical Fitness Training
Routine physical exercise: running, push-ups, flexibility, etc.
Builds stamina and prepares for NDA physical tests
4. Personality Development
Spoken English
Communication skills
Leadership traits
Discipline and time management
5. SSB Orientation
Introduction to OLQs (Officer Like Qualities)
Group discussions, public speaking, basic psychology sessions
📚 Subjects to Focus On
| Subject | Importance for NDA |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Core subject in NDA Paper 1 |
| General Science | Physics, Chemistry, Biology questions in GAT |
| English | High weightage in NDA Paper 2 |
| General Knowledge | History, Polity, Geography, Economics |
| Current Affairs | Important for both NDA & SSB |
🏫 Top NDA Foundation Coaching Institutes (Class 8 to 10)
Here are some of the best NDA coaching academies offering foundation courses for school students:
1. Centurion Defence Academy – Lucknow & Dehradun
NDA foundation for Class 8, 9, 10
CBSE + NDA coaching + physical training
Hostel facilities with military-like discipline
Regular SSB orientation
2. Major Kalshi Classes – Allahabad (Prayagraj)
Foundation course for NDA (Class 9 & 10)
Full-time schooling + coaching
Emphasis on fitness and spoken English
Excellent past NDA selections
3. Sainik School & RMS Preparatory Coaching (Various)
Coaching for RMS, RIMC, and Sainik School entrance after Class 5 or 8
These schools are strong pipelines for NDA
Students live and study in a disciplined, military-style environment
4. Delta Defence Academy – Dehradun
Offers NDA schooling + foundation coaching
Admission from Class 9 onwards
Strong focus on SSB skills and academic development
5. Doon Defence Academy – Dehradun
NDA foundation + schooling
Emphasis on regular physical fitness and personality development
💡 How to Choose the Right Coaching?
When selecting an NDA foundation program, consider the following:
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | Integrated CBSE/State Board + NDA content |
| Hostel Facility | Safe and disciplined residential setup |
| Past Results | Consistent NDA selections |
| Physical Training | Regular and structured PT sessions |
| SSB Focus | Personality and OLQ development from early age |
| Teacher Quality | Experienced faculty in both academics and defence prep |
🎓 Can I Do School + NDA Coaching Together?
Yes! Many institutions offer schooling + NDA coaching together, also known as:
NDA Foundation Schools
Integrated NDA Academies
These follow CBSE/State board curriculum along with coaching and PT
📝 Admission Process
Usually, admission to NDA foundation programs requires:
Written Test (basic aptitude, English, Maths)
Interview or interaction
Medical fitness (basic checkup)
Fee submission and hostel joining
Admissions are generally open after Class 7 or 8, and intakes happen in April, May, and June every year.
📅 Ideal Timeline: Class 8 to NDA Exam
| Stage | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Class 8-10 | Basics, Foundation coaching, Discipline |
| Class 11-12 | Full NDA syllabus, Physical & SSB prep |
| Age 16.5–19.5 | Eligible for NDA written exam |
| After NDA Exam | SSB interview, medicals, final merit |
📦 Fee Structure (Rough Estimate)
| Type of Institute | Fee Range (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| Day Coaching Only | ₹40,000 – ₹80,000 |
| Boarding + Coaching | ₹1.5 – ₹3.5 Lakhs |
| Military Schools | Lower (subsidized by govt) |
Fees vary based on location, facilities, and services included (hostel, meals, PT, etc.).
✅ Final Tips for Students (Class 8–10)
Focus on strong fundamentals in Maths and English
Read newspapers and GK books like Lucent or Manorama
Join scouting, NCC, or outdoor activities for fitness and leadership
Follow a daily routine — early rising, study hours, exercise
Start solving basic aptitude and reasoning questions
Develop confidence, communication, and awareness
👨👩👦 Advice for Parents
Support your child’s interest in defence careers
Help them stay consistent in study and routine
Choose a reputed school/academy with verified track record
Monitor physical, mental, and emotional development
📘 Recommended Books for Foundation Students
NCERT Books (Class 6–10)
Lucent’s General Knowledge
Wren & Martin (English Grammar)
Arihant NDA Foundation Series
Current Affairs Magazines (for awareness)
