Admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) is highly competitive because it combines academic training with full military training. Every candidate must meet the required JAMB Cut Off Mark before being eligible for the NDA screening test and subsequent selection stages.
This article provides a complete and verified breakdown of the NDA Cut Off Mark for the 2026/2027 academic session, including all courses offered, their required cut off marks, how aggregate selection works, and what to do if your score is not competitive.
Overview of NDA Cut Off Mark
University: Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)
Academic Session: 2026/2027
General JAMB Cut Off Mark: 180
Admission Method: JAMB + NDA Screening Test
Admission Type: UTME (Regular Combatant Course)
Meeting the Cut Off Mark qualifies candidates for the NDA screening test. It does not guarantee admission.
What Is NDA Cut Off Mark?
The NDA Cut Off Mark is the minimum score required in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination to qualify for NDA screening.
NDA uses this benchmark to:
- Select candidates for its screening test
- Filter applicants for different faculties
- Maintain high military and academic standards
NDA JAMB Cut Off Mark for 2026/2027
For the 2026/2027 academic session, NDA has fixed its minimum JAMB Cut Off Mark as follows:
Arts, Science, and Social Science courses: 180
Engineering courses: 210
Candidates must meet these exact scores to proceed to the NDA screening test.
How NDA Determines Its Cut Off Marks
NDA sets its cut off marks based on:
- JAMB national benchmark
- Programme difficulty
- Military training requirements
- Number of applicants
- Available training slots
Engineering programmes require higher scores due to their technical nature.
NDA Departmental Cut Off Mark
Below is the full verified list of courses offered at NDA and their corresponding Cut Off Mark.
Course | Cut Off Mark |
|---|---|
Accounting | 180 |
Economics | 180 |
Management Studies | 180 |
Political Science and Defence Studies | 180 |
Geography | 180 |
History and War Studies | 180 |
French | 180 |
English | 180 |
Psychology | 180 |
Biological Sciences | 180 |
Biotechnology | 180 |
Chemistry | 180 |
Mathematics | 180 |
Physics | 180 |
Computer Science | 180 |
Intelligence and Cyber Security Studies | 180 |
Civil Engineering | 210 |
Electrical/Electronics Engineering | 210 |
Mechanical Engineering | 210 |
All non-engineering courses require 180, while engineering programmes require 210.
NDA Screening Test and Selection Process
After meeting the JAMB Cut Off Mark, candidates must participate in the NDA screening test.
Admission process includes:
- NDA screening test (Phase 1)
- Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) interview
- Medical and physical fitness screening
Only candidates who pass all stages are admitted.
How NDA Aggregate/Selection Works
NDA does not rely only on JAMB score. Selection is based on:
- JAMB performance
- NDA screening test performance
- Physical and medical fitness
- Final AFSB interview
Candidates must perform well in all stages.
Admission Requirements
To gain admission into NDA, candidates must meet the official Admission Requirements:
- Minimum of five O-Level credits including English and Mathematics
- Minimum JAMB score of 180 (210 for Engineering)
- Age between 17 and 21 years
- Must be medically and physically fit
- Must be single (no marital status allowed)
- Must pass NDA screening and AFSB
How To Gain Admission Into NDA
- Score well above the required Cut Off Mark
- Prepare thoroughly for NDA screening test
- Maintain strong physical fitness
- Ensure correct subject combination
- Follow all admission instructions carefully
What To Do If You Don’t Meet NDA Cut Off Mark
- Retake JAMB to improve your score
- Apply to other federal universities
- Choose less competitive courses
- Prepare early for next NDA intake
Why Many Candidates Fail NDA Admission
- Low JAMB score
- Poor screening test performance
- Failure in AFSB interview
- Medical disqualification
- Lack of physical fitness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is NDA cut off mark for 2026/2027?
The general Cut Off Mark is 180, while Engineering requires 210.
Can I enter NDA with 180?
Yes, but only for non-engineering courses.
Does NDA conduct Post UTME?
NDA conducts its own screening test instead of regular Post UTME.
Does meeting the cut off mark guarantee admission?
No. Candidates must pass multiple stages.
What is NDA cut off mark for Engineering?
Engineering requires 210.
Is NDA a normal university?
No. It is a military university.
How many years is NDA training?
Five years including military training.
Can civilians apply to NDA?
Yes, but they must undergo full military training.
Is NDA very competitive?
Yes. Admission is highly competitive.
What happens after NDA graduation?
Graduates are commissioned as officers in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Final Summary
The NDA Cut Off Mark for 2026/2027 is 180 for most courses and 210 for engineering programmes. While meeting this requirement qualifies candidates for screening, admission depends on performance in the NDA test, physical fitness, and final selection stages.
Candidates aiming for NDA must prepare academically and physically to increase their chances of success.