NDA Height and Weight Requirements 2027: Physical Standards for Male & Female Candidates
For NDA aspirants, meeting the prescribed physical and medical standards is an essential part of the selection process. NDA height and weight requirements are not based on a single ideal body weight for every candidate; the acceptable weight is assessed according to height and age, along with other medical parameters.
For the NDA & NA Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), candidates must satisfy the applicable medical standards before final selection. The standards differ for male and female candidates, and certain height relaxations apply to candidates from specified regions. The requirements can also differ for particular branches, especially flying-related entries.
This guide explains the NDA physical standards for 2027, including minimum height, height-based weight ranges, regional relaxations, special standards for Air Force entries, medical considerations, and practical ways to prepare physically.
Important: NDA medical standards are prescribed through the applicable UPSC notification and Armed Forces medical guidelines. The official notification applicable to your examination should always be treated as the final authority. The currently available UPSC NDA standards provide the basis for the figures explained below.
What Is the Minimum Height Required for NDA?
The minimum NDA height requirement is generally 157 cm for male candidates and 152 cm for female candidates for the relevant Armed Forces entries. Height relaxations are available for candidates belonging to certain specified regions and categories.
For some entries, particularly Air Force flying-related roles, additional anthropometric requirements apply. Therefore, simply meeting the general minimum height does not automatically establish medical fitness for every branch.
NDA Height Requirements at a Glance
| Candidate | General Minimum Height |
|---|---|
| Male candidates | 157 cm |
| Female candidates | 152 cm |
| Male candidates from specified relaxed categories | Up to 152 cm |
| Female candidates from specified relaxed categories | Up to 147 cm |
| Air Force Flying Branch | Higher/special anthropometric standards apply |
The exact entry and branch should always be checked against the applicable UPSC notification and medical standards.
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NDA Height Requirements for Male Candidates
For male candidates, the general minimum acceptable height for entry into the Armed Forces is 157 cm under the applicable standards.
Certain candidates can receive height relaxation based on their domicile or specified regional category.
Height Relaxation for Male Candidates
| Category/Region | Minimum Height |
|---|---|
| General standard | 157 cm |
| Tribals from Ladakh Region | 155 cm |
| Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep and Minicoy Islands | 155 cm |
| Gorkhas, Nepali, Assamese, Garhwali, Kumaoni and Uttarakhand | 152 cm |
| Bhutan, Sikkim and North-East Region | 152 cm |
| Extra-talented sports candidates | 155 cm |
These relaxations are subject to the conditions prescribed in the applicable medical standards.
A candidate should not assume that living in a particular state automatically qualifies them for relaxation. The applicable category, domicile conditions and supporting requirements matter.
NDA Height Requirements for Female Candidates
The general minimum acceptable height for female candidates is 152 cm.
Height relaxation is available for candidates belonging to specified regions.
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Height Relaxation for Female Candidates
| Category/Region | Minimum Height |
|---|---|
| General standard | 152 cm |
| Tribals from Ladakh Region | 150 cm |
| Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep and Minicoy Islands | 150 cm |
| Gorkhas, Nepali, Assamese, Garhwali, Kumaoni and Uttarakhand | 147 cm |
| Bhutan, Sikkim and North-East Region | 147 cm |
The applicable standards also specify that these general height relaxations do not apply to candidates seeking officer entry into certain Navy Pilot/Observer specialisations of the Executive Branch.
What Is the NDA Weight Requirement?
NDA weight is assessed in relation to the candidate’s height and age, rather than using one fixed weight limit for everyone.
The applicable medical standards provide height-weight charts for male and female candidates. Candidates outside the prescribed weight range may not be accepted unless the applicable provisions permit consideration under exceptional circumstances.
For candidates under 17, the applicable standards refer to age-specific growth charts rather than simply applying the adult height-weight table.
NDA Height and Weight Chart for Male Candidates
The following height-weight values are based on the prescribed Weight for Height Chart: Males (At Entry) used in the applicable NDA medical standards.
| Height | Minimum Weight | Maximum Weight Below 20 | Maximum Weight 20–25 | Maximum Weight Above 25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 152 cm | 40 kg | 53 kg | 55 kg | 58 kg |
| 155 cm | 41 kg | 55 kg | 58 kg | 60 kg |
| 158 cm | 42 kg | 57 kg | 60 kg | 62 kg |
| 160 cm | 44 kg | 59 kg | 61 kg | 64 kg |
| 162 cm | 45 kg | 60 kg | 63 kg | 66 kg |
| 165 cm | 46 kg | 63 kg | 65 kg | 68 kg |
| 168 cm | 48 kg | 65 kg | 68 kg | 71 kg |
| 170 cm | 49 kg | 66 kg | 69 kg | 72 kg |
| 172 cm | 50 kg | 68 kg | 71 kg | 74 kg |
| 175 cm | 52 kg | 70 kg | 74 kg | 77 kg |
| 178 cm | 54 kg | 74 kg | 77 kg | 80 kg |
| 180 cm | 55 kg | 75 kg | 78 kg | 81 kg |
| 183 cm | 57 kg | 77 kg | 80 kg | 84 kg |
| 185 cm | 58 kg | 79 kg | 82 kg | 86 kg |
| 190 cm | 61 kg | 83 kg | 87 kg | 90 kg |
| 195 cm | 65 kg | 87 kg | 91 kg | 95 kg |
| 200 cm | 68 kg | 92 kg | 96 kg | 100 kg |
The official chart covers individual height values across the prescribed range; the table above presents representative values for easier reference.
Example: Male Candidate at 170 cm
For a male candidate with a height of 170 cm, the chart gives:
- Minimum weight: 49 kg
- Maximum weight below 20 years: 66 kg
- Maximum weight for age 20–25 years: 69 kg
- Maximum weight above 25 years: 72 kg
NDA candidates are generally within the younger age groups, so the below-20-years column is particularly relevant for most school-age aspirants.
NDA Height and Weight Chart for Female Candidates
The applicable Weight for Height Chart: Females (At Entry) provides a minimum weight and age-dependent maximum weight.
| Height | Minimum Weight | Maximum Weight Below 20 | Maximum Weight 20–25 | Maximum Weight Above 25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 147 cm | 37 kg | 45 kg | 48 kg | 51 kg |
| 150 cm | 37 kg | 47 kg | 50 kg | 53 kg |
| 152 cm | 37 kg | 49 kg | 51 kg | 54 kg |
| 154 cm | 38 kg | 50 kg | 52 kg | 56 kg |
| 156 cm | 39 kg | 51 kg | 54 kg | 57 kg |
| 158 cm | 40 kg | 52 kg | 55 kg | 59 kg |
| 160 cm | 41 kg | 54 kg | 56 kg | 60 kg |
| 162 cm | 42 kg | 55 kg | 58 kg | 62 kg |
| 164 cm | 43 kg | 56 kg | 59 kg | 63 kg |
| 165 cm | 44 kg | 57 kg | 60 kg | 64 kg |
| 167 cm | 45 kg | 59 kg | 61 kg | 66 kg |
| 168 cm | 45 kg | 59 kg | 62 kg | 66 kg |
| 170 cm | 46 kg | 61 kg | 64 kg | 68 kg |
| 172 cm | 47 kg | 62 kg | 65 kg | 70 kg |
| 175 cm | 49 kg | 64 kg | 67 kg | 72 kg |
| 178 cm | 51 kg | 67 kg | 70 kg | 74 kg |
The official chart contains individual values for the full prescribed height range.
Example: Female Candidate at 160 cm
For a female candidate measuring 160 cm, the applicable chart gives:
- Minimum weight: 41 kg
- Maximum weight below 20 years: 54 kg
- Maximum weight for age 20–25 years: 56 kg
- Maximum weight above 25 years: 60 kg
Therefore, a female candidate should not assume that a commonly quoted “ideal weight” applies to every NDA applicant. The prescribed height, age and medical standards need to be considered together.
Does NDA Have a Fixed Weight Limit?
No. NDA does not have one fixed weight limit for all candidates. The acceptable weight depends on the candidate’s height and age, with separate standards for males and females.
For example, a candidate who is 160 cm tall and a candidate who is 180 cm tall cannot be assessed against the same maximum weight. The medical standards therefore use height-weight charts rather than a single number.
What Happens If an NDA Candidate Is Overweight?
Being above the prescribed weight range does not mean that every case is automatically treated identically. The medical standards allow limited consideration in exceptional circumstances where there is documented evidence of a muscular build associated with activities such as bodybuilding, wrestling or boxing.
For female candidates, the applicable standards state that weight above the specified range may be accepted only in exceptional circumstances and subject to medical criteria, including appropriate BMI, waist-to-hip ratio and normal biochemical parameters. The fitness determination is made by the appropriate medical specialist.
Candidates should not attempt extreme dieting or rapid weight loss simply to reach a number on the chart. Medical fitness is broader than body weight alone.
What If an NDA Candidate Is Underweight?
Candidates whose weight falls below the minimum specified for their height may be found medically unacceptable under the applicable standards.
For this reason, underweight candidates should not rely on sudden weight gain immediately before the medical examination. A healthy body composition should be developed progressively through:
- Balanced nutrition
- Adequate protein intake
- Regular strength training
- Cardiovascular exercise
- Proper sleep
- Consistent daily routines
If a candidate is significantly underweight, unexplained weight loss or other health concerns should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
NDA Physical Standards Are More Than Height and Weight
Height and weight are important, but they are not the complete NDA medical assessment.
The Armed Forces medical examination also considers several other aspects of a candidate’s physical and medical fitness.
Depending on the entry and applicable standards, the assessment can involve:
- General physical development
- Chest shape and development
- Chest expansion
- Vision
- Hearing
- Ear, nose and throat health
- Musculoskeletal health
- Cardiovascular and respiratory health
- Anthropometric measurements for applicable flying entries
- Body composition and related parameters
- Other medical investigations prescribed for officer entry
The applicable medical standards state that the chest should be well proportioned and developed, and specify a recommended minimum chest circumference of 77 cm with at least 5 cm of chest expansion.
This is why clearing the written NDA examination does not by itself guarantee medical fitness.
What Are the NDA Chest Standards?
The applicable medical guidelines state that the chest should be well proportioned and well developed.
A minimum recommended chest circumference of 77 cm is specified, with at least 5 cm of chest expansion for candidates. Chest deformities that could interfere with physical exertion, military duties or proper military bearing may affect medical fitness.
Chest measurement is therefore considered along with the broader medical examination rather than as an isolated fitness test.
Are Height Standards the Same for Army, Navy and Air Force?
Not necessarily.
The general Armed Forces height standard is not the only consideration for every NDA-related entry. Certain Air Force and Navy specialisations have additional or higher anthropometric requirements.
For example, flying-related entries require specific measurements such as sitting height, leg length and thigh length, in addition to the applicable minimum height. These requirements are particularly important for candidates targeting Air Force flying roles.
The applicable standards have specified higher minimum height and anthropometric requirements for flying branches, so candidates should not assume that meeting the general NDA height requirement automatically makes them eligible for every flying role.
NDA Height Requirements for Air Force Flying Entries
Flying duties require additional anthropometric suitability because the candidate must be compatible with aircraft cockpit dimensions and operational requirements.
The applicable standards include measurements such as:
- Minimum and maximum sitting height
- Minimum and maximum leg length
- Maximum thigh length
- Branch-specific minimum height
For female candidates, the applicable standards have specified a minimum flying-branch height of 162.5 cm in the relevant guidelines, while ground-duty requirements are different.
Because flying standards are more specialised, candidates interested in Air Force flying should check the exact medical provisions applicable to their NDA entry year.
Do Height Relaxations Apply to All NDA Entries?
No. Height relaxation is not universally applicable to every branch or specialisation.
The medical standards specify regional relaxations for certain categories, but they also contain exceptions for particular entries. For example, the general height relaxation does not apply to candidates seeking certain Navy Pilot/Observer specialisations of the Executive Branch.
Therefore, candidates should check their intended service and branch instead of relying only on the general minimum height.
What About Candidates Below 18 Years of Age?
NDA candidates are generally school-age or recently school-passed candidates, which makes age an important consideration in physical assessment.
The applicable Armed Forces medical standards include specific provisions concerning candidates below 17 years and the use of age-appropriate growth charts. The standards also provide a growth allowance in certain circumstances for candidates below 18 years at the time of examination.
This is another reason why young candidates should not compare their body measurements with adult standards without considering the applicable medical rules.
How Can NDA Aspirants Prepare for the Physical Standards?
Physical preparation should begin well before the SSB and medical stages. Candidates should focus on developing overall fitness rather than trying to achieve a particular body weight at the last moment.
1. Track Your Height and Weight Regularly
Record your height and weight periodically rather than checking them only before the medical examination.
A simple record can help you identify whether your weight is:
- Below the prescribed range
- Within the expected range
- Approaching the upper limit
- Changing rapidly
Use a reliable weighing scale and measure height correctly.
2. Build a Balanced Exercise Routine
An NDA aspirant should develop a combination of cardiovascular fitness, strength and mobility.
A practical weekly routine can include:
- Running
- Brisk walking or jogging
- Push-ups
- Squats
- Pull-ups or assisted pull-ups
- Core exercises
- Mobility and stretching
- Basic strength exercises
The objective is to build functional fitness rather than simply increase or decrease body weight.
3. Follow a Balanced Diet
Food habits have a direct impact on healthy body composition.
A balanced diet can include:
- Milk or curd
- Eggs or other protein sources
- Pulses and dal
- Paneer
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Nuts and seeds
- Adequate water
Candidates who are underweight should focus on nutritious calorie intake rather than relying primarily on junk food. Candidates who are overweight should avoid crash diets and focus on sustainable dietary habits.
4. Sleep Properly
School students preparing for NDA often sacrifice sleep to study longer. This can negatively affect recovery and physical performance.
A consistent sleep schedule supports:
- Physical recovery
- Concentration
- Training performance
- Learning
- General well-being
5. Prepare for SSB Alongside Written Preparation
Physical fitness should not be treated as a last-minute activity after the written examination.
The NDA selection process includes the written examination followed by the Services Selection Board (SSB) process for candidates who qualify through the applicable stages.
A balanced NDA preparation strategy should therefore include:
- Mathematics
- General Ability Test
- English
- General Knowledge
- Current affairs
- Physical fitness
- SSB-oriented preparation
Candidates preparing from school can also explore the NDA Foundation After 10th – ARJUNA Batch if they want to build academic and defence-oriented preparation over a longer period.
Can Exercise Increase Height for NDA?
Exercise cannot be relied upon to increase an individual’s final adult height beyond their natural growth potential.
Activities such as stretching, swimming, running and sports can contribute to physical fitness, posture and overall health, but they should not be presented as methods that can guarantee an increase in height.
For younger candidates who are still growing, adequate nutrition, sleep and general health support normal development. Height itself is primarily influenced by biological and genetic factors.
Can Weight Training Affect NDA Height?
Normal, properly supervised strength training does not mean that a candidate will automatically lose height or fail to grow.
For school-age NDA aspirants, strength training should be age-appropriate and performed with correct technique. Candidates should avoid unsafe lifting practices and unsupervised extreme workouts.
The goal should be to develop strength, mobility and physical conditioning without compromising health.
Common Mistakes NDA Aspirants Should Avoid
Trying to Change Height or Weight at the Last Moment
Physical standards should be monitored well in advance. Last-minute attempts to gain or lose a large amount of weight can be unhealthy.
Following Internet Weight Charts Blindly
Different defence entries use different standards. A general internet BMI calculator or fitness chart is not a substitute for the applicable Armed Forces medical standards.
Ignoring Branch-Specific Requirements
A candidate interested in Air Force flying or specific Navy roles may face additional anthropometric requirements.
Focusing Only on the Written Examination
The NDA journey does not end with the written test. SSB and medical fitness are important parts of the selection process.
Using Supplements Without Medical Advice
Candidates should not use weight-gain or weight-loss medicines, hormones, steroids or unverified supplements to manipulate body weight.
Waiting Until SSB to Start Physical Training
Physical conditioning takes time. Regular exercise should become part of NDA preparation well before the selection stages.
How Parents Can Help NDA Aspirants Maintain Physical Fitness
Parents can play an important role in helping school students develop healthy routines.
A supportive routine can include:
- Regular home-cooked meals.
- Adequate sleep.
- Daily physical activity.
- Limiting excessive junk food.
- Monitoring unhealthy weight changes.
- Encouraging outdoor sports and exercise.
- Avoiding pressure to achieve unrealistic body measurements.
- Consulting a qualified doctor when there are genuine health concerns.
For younger candidates, the objective should be healthy growth and development rather than aggressive dieting or bodybuilding.
NDA Physical Standards and NDA Preparation in Sikar
Students preparing for the NDA examination in Rajasthan can combine academic preparation with structured physical conditioning.
For aspirants looking for NDA Coaching in Sikar, physical preparation should ideally be integrated with written exam preparation and SSB-oriented development rather than treated as a separate activity.
Alpha NDA Academy is located in Sikar, Rajasthan, and provides NDA preparation programmes for students at different academic stages. Its programmes include preparation options for students after Class 10 and Class 12, along with SSB-focused guidance.
Students preparing after Class 12 can explore the NDA After 12th – SPARTANS Batch, while candidates combining Class 12 studies with NDA preparation can explore the NDA With 12th – BULLS EYE Batch.
Female aspirants can also refer to Alpha NDA Academy’s NDA Coaching for Girls programme.
What Should NDA Aspirants Do If They Are Close to the Height or Weight Limit?
If your height or weight is close to the prescribed limit, do not rely on unofficial claims about whether you will be accepted.
Instead:
- Check the latest applicable UPSC NDA notification.
- Identify your intended wing or branch.
- Check whether any regional height relaxation applies to you.
- Compare your height and age with the applicable weight chart.
- Maintain healthy fitness and nutrition habits.
- Obtain professional medical advice if you have a health or weight concern.
- Check the final medical standards applicable to your entry.
The medical board, applying the applicable Armed Forces standards, determines medical fitness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum height for NDA male candidates?
The general minimum acceptable height for male candidates is 157 cm. Relaxations apply to specified categories and regions, including certain candidates from Ladakh, island territories, Gorkha/Nepali/Assamese/Garhwali/Kumaoni/Uttarakhand regions, Bhutan, Sikkim and the North-East, subject to the applicable conditions.
What is the minimum height for NDA female candidates?
The general minimum acceptable height for female candidates is 152 cm. For specified regional categories, the minimum may be relaxed to 150 cm or 147 cm depending on the applicable category.
What is the minimum weight required for NDA?
There is no single minimum weight for every NDA candidate. The prescribed weight depends on height and age, with separate male and female weight-for-height charts. Candidates below the minimum weight specified for their height may be found medically unacceptable.
What is the ideal weight for a 170 cm NDA candidate?
For a male candidate measuring 170 cm, the applicable chart lists a minimum weight of 49 kg and a maximum of 66 kg for candidates below 20 years. The maximum increases to 69 kg for ages 20–25 and 72 kg above 25 under the cited chart.
For a female candidate at 170 cm, the chart lists 46 kg minimum and a maximum of 61 kg below 20 years, 64 kg for ages 20–25 and 68 kg above 25.
Can girls apply for NDA?
Yes. Female candidates can apply for NDA & NA subject to the eligibility conditions prescribed in the applicable UPSC notification. Female candidates are also subject to the prescribed physical and medical standards.
Is 152 cm enough for NDA female candidates?
For the general female standard, 152 cm is the minimum acceptable height. However, branch-specific requirements and applicable regional relaxations can change the requirement. Candidates targeting specialised entries should check the relevant medical standards.
Is 157 cm enough for NDA male candidates?
For the general male standard, 157 cm is the minimum acceptable height. However, specific regional relaxations and branch-specific requirements may apply. Candidates should verify the standards for their intended entry rather than assuming that the general minimum applies everywhere.
Does NDA require a minimum chest measurement?
The applicable medical guidelines specify a recommended minimum chest circumference of 77 cm and at least 5 cm of chest expansion. The chest should also be well proportioned and developed, and medical fitness is assessed more broadly than chest measurement alone.
Is the NDA medical test conducted after the written exam?
Candidates who qualify through the applicable selection stages are required to undergo the prescribed SSB and medical procedures. The medical examination is an important part of determining whether a candidate meets the Armed Forces’ physical and medical standards.
Can an overweight NDA candidate be declared fit?
An overweight candidate may be considered only under the provisions of the applicable medical standards. Exceptional cases can involve documented muscular build and additional medical criteria. Candidates should not assume that being physically muscular automatically exempts them from the prescribed weight standards.
Do NDA height requirements change for the Air Force?
Yes. Certain Air Force entries, particularly flying roles, have additional anthropometric requirements beyond the general minimum height. Measurements such as sitting height, leg length and thigh length can be relevant for flying eligibility.
Final Takeaway
The NDA height and weight requirements for 2027 should be understood as part of a broader medical fitness assessment. The general minimum height is 157 cm for male candidates and 152 cm for female candidates, while specified regional relaxations may apply. Weight is assessed according to height and age through prescribed charts rather than one universal limit.
Candidates should also remember that height and weight are only part of NDA medical fitness. Chest development, vision, hearing, musculoskeletal health, body composition and other medical parameters can also be assessed. Specialised entries, especially Air Force flying roles, have additional anthropometric requirements.
Because medical standards and examination notifications can be updated, candidates preparing for NDA 2027 should rely on the latest UPSC notification applicable to their examination.
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Official Reference
The Union Public Service Commission publishes NDA & NA examination notifications and related documents through its official website. Candidates should refer to the latest applicable notification and medical standards for the final requirements.
