The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) is one of the most prestigious military institutions in Nigeria, responsible for training officers for the Nigerian Armed Forces. Located in Kaduna, the NDA offers both academic and military training to selected candidates, and it remains the first and only military university in Nigeria.
To gain admission into the NDA, candidates must go through a rigorous selection process that includes meeting certain academic qualifications, passing the NDA Entrance Examination, and undergoing a physical and medical screening process. One of the key academic components is meeting the cut-off mark and choosing from the list of approved courses offered by the institution.
NDA Courses
The NDA offers undergraduate degree programs across various faculties, mainly under the following schools:
1. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
-
BSc Economics
-
BSc History and War Studies
-
BSc Geography
-
BSc Political Science and Defence Studies
-
BSc Psychology
2. Faculty of Science
-
BSc Biological Sciences
-
BSc Chemistry
-
BSc Mathematics
-
BSc Physics
-
BSc Computer Science
3. Faculty of Engineering
-
BEng Civil Engineering
-
BEng Electrical and Electronics Engineering
-
BEng Mechanical Engineering
-
BEng Mechatronics Engineering
4. Faculty of Military Science and Interdisciplinary Studies
-
BSc Intelligence and Security Studies
-
BSc Cyber Security
-
BSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management
5. Faculty of Management Sciences
-
BSc Accounting
-
BSc Management Sciences
All NDA cadets are expected to undergo five years of study – four years of academic work and one year of military training – culminating in the award of a Bachelor’s degree and a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
NDA Cut-Off Mark
To qualify for admission into the NDA, candidates must meet the minimum cut-off mark in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The cut-off mark may vary depending on the course of study, but generally, the minimum cut-off mark is 180.
Here’s a breakdown of cut-off marks for different faculties:
-
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences: 180 and above
-
Faculty of Science: 180 and above
-
Faculty of Military Science and Interdisciplinary Studies: 180 and above
-
Faculty of Management Sciences: 180 and above
-
Faculty of Engineering: 210 and above
It is important to note that although the general cut-off mark is 180, courses under engineering and some highly competitive departments may require a higher score due to the limited number of slots and higher applicant volume.
Admission Requirements
Apart from meeting the cut-off mark, applicants must also:
-
Be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
-
Be medically and physically fit.
-
Be at least 17 years old and not more than 21 years at the time of entry.
-
Pass the NDA entrance examination and selection board interview.
-
Possess a minimum of five (5) credits in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, in not more than two sittings.
Only male and female candidates who meet these stringent criteria will be admitted into the full-time military training and academic programs.
Conclusion
Gaining admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy is a competitive and highly prestigious feat. The institution provides world-class education combined with rigorous military training. Candidates who wish to apply must ensure they meet the stipulated cut-off marks for their preferred courses and prepare adequately for the entrance examination and subsequent screening processes.
FAQs
What is the general cut-off mark for NDA courses?
The general cut-off mark for most courses at the NDA is 180, but for engineering courses, candidates are usually required to score 210 and above in UTME.
Can females apply to NDA for any course?
Yes, female candidates can apply for NDA admission, but are limited to non-combatant roles and specific courses. However, this policy has been expanding in recent years to include more departments.
Is NDA admission based solely on UTME scores?
No, admission into NDA is not based solely on UTME scores. Candidates must also pass the NDA entrance examination and participate in the Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) screening process.
Can I combine WAEC and NECO results for NDA admission?
Yes, candidates are allowed to combine WAEC and NECO results, provided they meet the minimum subject requirements and achieve at least five credits including English and Mathematics.
Also Read: FRSC Salary Structure and Ranks
