# NDA 2 Maths Question Paper 2026 with Answer Key and Solution PDF (September 13)

- Canonical: https://academic247.com/news/nda-2-maths-question-paper-2026-answer-key-solution-pdf
- Updated: 2026-11-04

- Published: 2026-09-13
- Authors: Priya Sharma
- Category: Exams

UPSC held the NDA 2 2026 Mathematics paper on 13 September 2026. Set-wise question papers (A–D) and unofficial answer keys with solution PDFs are now available online. Use this guide to download the correct key, calculate your score, and track the result timeline.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducted the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (II), 2026 on **Sunday, 13 September 2026**. Lakhs of defence aspirants across India appeared for the Mathematics paper in the morning session and the General Ability Test (GAT) in the afternoon. Within hours of the exam, coaching institutes and education platforms began publishing the **NDA 2 Maths question paper 2026** along with unofficial answer keys and worked solutions in PDF format.

For candidates who sat for Paper I (Mathematics, Code 01), accessing the set-wise question paper and answer key is the first step toward estimating their score, identifying weak topics, and planning the next phase of preparation—whether that means focusing on SSB interview training or preparing for NDA 1 2027. This Academic247 guide explains what was asked, how to download the Maths paper and solution PDF for Sets A through D, how to calculate your marks using the official marking scheme, and what happens next in the UPSC selection timeline.

## NDA 2 2026 Maths Exam at a Glance

Before diving into answer keys and solutions, it helps to understand the fixed structure of the NDA written examination. The Maths paper is identical in format across both NDA 1 and NDA 2 cycles each year; only the questions change.

DetailNDA 2 2026 Mathematics PaperConducting bodyUnion Public Service Commission (UPSC)Exam date13 September 2026 (Sunday)Paper code01 — MathematicsSession timing10:00 AM to 12:30 PM (2 hours 30 minutes)Total questions120 objective-type (MCQ)Maximum marks300Marks per correct answer+2.5Negative marking−0.83 per wrong answer (one-third of 2.5)Question paper setsA, B, C, and DMediumEnglish and Hindi (bilingual)ModeOffline, OMR sheet-based

The afternoon GAT paper (Code 02, 600 marks) follows a separate answer key release cycle. This article focuses specifically on the Mathematics paper, [which](https://academic247.com/news/which-nda-coaching-is-rank-1-in-sikar-verified-2026) carries one-third of the 900 marks allotted to the written test.

## What Happened on September 13, 2026

NDA 2 2026 was held simultaneously at hundreds of examination centres across India—from metro cities to district headquarters. Candidates who applied through UPSC's online portal and downloaded their admit cards reported to centres with photo identity proof, black ballpoint pens, and their e-admit card printout.

### Exam-Day Logistics Candidates Should Know

Several cities enforced strict security protocols around examination venues. For instance, authorities in Almora implemented a [200-metre restricted zone around NDA and CDS exam centres](https://academic247.com/news/almora-cds-nda-exam-restrictions-200-metre-zone-september-13) to prevent malpractice. Similar arrangements were documented in [Dehradun](https://academic247.com/news/dehradun-upsc-cds-nda-na-exams-2026-centres-timings-candidate-guide), where [54 centres hosted UPSC CDS, NDA, and NA exams with detailed shift timings](https://academic247.com/news/dehradun-upsc-cds-nda-na-exams-2026-centres-timings-candidate-guide), and in Gurugram, which ran [34 centres across three shifts for the combined UPSC defence examinations](https://academic247.com/news/gurugram-cds-nda-exam-2026-centres-shifts-arrangements).

The Mathematics session opened at 10:00 AM. Invigilators distributed sealed test booklets corresponding to one of four sets—A, B, C, or D—assigned randomly to each candidate. The paper covered the standard NDA Maths syllabus prescribed in UPSC Examination Notice No. 10/2026-NDA-II, including algebra, matrices and determinants, trigonometry, analytical geometry, differential calculus, integral calculus, vectors, and statistics and probability.

By 12:30 PM, the morning session concluded. coaching faculty at institutes in defence-preparation hubs such as Sikar, Delhi, and Jaipur began solving the paper immediately, with unofficial answer keys typically appearing online between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM the same day.

## NDA 2 Maths Question Paper 2026 — Set-Wise Overview

UPSC uses multiple question paper sets to reduce copying. Although the sets contain different question numbers and occasionally reordered options, the underlying concepts and difficulty level remain comparable across sets. Candidates must match their answer key to the exact set printed on their test booklet cover.

### Understanding Sets A, B, C, and D

Each set of the NDA 2 2026 Maths question paper contains 120 multiple-choice questions. The four sets are not identical word-for-word, but they are designed to be statistically equivalent. If your friend received Set B and you received Set C, you cannot use each other's answer keys—you must download the key corresponding to your set.

Education platforms and coaching institutes typically publish:

- Memory-based question paper reconstructions (same day)
- Set-wise answer key PDFs listing the correct option (A/B/C/D) for each question
- Detailed solution PDFs showing step-by-step working for complex problems
- Video solutions for high-difficulty questions, especially from calculus and coordinate geometry

Some platforms also release the question paper in a downloadable PDF format once UPSC uploads official papers to its website, which historically happens shortly after the examination date.

### Where to Find the Question Paper PDF

Candidates can access the NDA 2 Maths question paper 2026 through several channels:

1. **Coaching institute websites** — Major defence coaching academies publish memory-based papers within hours of the exam.
2. **Education news portals** — Platforms covering competitive exams aggregate set-wise download links.
3. **UPSC official website (upsc.gov.in)** — The Commission uploads question papers to the examination section, though this may take a few days.
4. **Telegram and YouTube channels** — Many institutes live-stream paper discussions and post PDF links in description boxes.

Always verify that the PDF header mentions "NDA II 2026" and the correct set letter before relying on it for score calculation.

## NDA 2 Maths Answer Key 2026 — Official vs Unofficial

Two distinct categories of answer keys exist for every NDA cycle, and confusing them can lead to incorrect score estimates or misplaced objections.

### Unofficial Answer Keys (Same-Day Release)

Coaching institutes, former defence officers, and subject experts release unofficial answer keys on the exam day itself—typically between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM for the Maths paper. These keys are prepared by faculty who either collect memory-based questions from students leaving exam centres or solve the paper from recalled questions.

Advantages of unofficial keys:

- Available within hours, allowing immediate score estimation
- Often include detailed solutions useful for learning
- Enable quick identification of controversial questions

Limitations:

- May contain errors in 2–5 questions due to memory gaps or misremembered values
- Not accepted by UPSC for score revision
- Different institutes may disagree on 1–3 answers per set

### Official UPSC Answer Key (Delayed Release)

UPSC releases the official NDA answer key only after the entire selection process for that examination cycle is complete—typically several months after the written exam, often alongside or after the final result. The official key is published on upsc.gov.in and is the only version accepted for filing representations (challenges) against specific questions.

Until the official key arrives, candidates should treat unofficial keys as provisional estimates. For a broader perspective on how national-level exams handle answer key timelines, see our coverage of the [NEET PG 2026 answer key and response sheet release by NBEMS](https://academic247.com/news/neet-pg-2026-answer-key-response-sheet-nbems-qualifying-marks), which follows a similar pattern of provisional keys followed by official verification.

## How to Download NDA 2 Maths Question Paper and Solution PDF

Follow these steps to locate and download the correct set-wise materials for your paper.

1. **Identify your set** — Check the top-right corner of your Maths test booklet or recall the set letter (A, B, C, or D) printed on the cover.
2. **Visit a trusted education portal or coaching website** — Search for "NDA 2 2026 Maths answer key Set [your set]" on reputable platforms.
3. **Download the answer key PDF** — Save the file to your device. Most PDFs list question numbers 1–120 with the correct option marked.
4. **Download the solution PDF (optional but recommended)** — Solution PDFs show working for algebra, trigonometry, and calculus questions, which helps you understand mistakes even when your chosen option was wrong.
5. **Cross-check disputed answers across two sources** — If two independent coaching institutes agree on an answer, it is likely correct. If they disagree, mark that question as "uncertain" in your score calculation.

**NDA 2 Maths Answer Key 2026 - [Download Link](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MOhJRL0Lqfto70PUMt91DVdZefv3irO-/view?usp=sharing)**

## NDA 2 Maths Marking Scheme and Score Calculation

Understanding the marking scheme is essential for turning an answer key into a meaningful score estimate. The NDA Maths paper uses a fixed formula that penalises random guessing.

### Marking Formula

Use this formula to calculate your estimated Maths score:

**Estimated Score = (Correct × 2.5) − (Wrong × 0.83)**

Unattempted questions carry zero marks—neither added nor deducted.

### Worked Example

Suppose after matching your responses with the unofficial answer key, you find:

- Correct answers: 72
- Wrong answers: 28
- Unattempted: 20

Calculation: (72 × 2.5) − (28 × 0.83) = 180 − 23.24 = **156.76 marks** out of 300.

Because partial marks are not awarded, even a single wrong answer costs you 0.83 marks in addition to the 2.5 marks you failed to gain. This is why experienced NDA mentors advise attempting only those questions where you can eliminate at least two options.

ResponsesCountMarks ImpactCorrect72+180.00Wrong28−23.24Unattempted200.00**Estimated Total**120**156.76 / 300**

## Topic-Wise Analysis of NDA 2 Maths Paper 2026

Based on candidate feedback and coaching institute analysis published on 13 September 2026, the Maths paper maintained the traditional NDA difficulty balance: moderately challenging overall, with a mix of direct formula-based questions and application-based problems.

### Section-Wise Difficulty (Based on Initial Reactions)

- **Algebra and Binomial Theorem** — Standard difficulty. Questions on AP/GP, permutations, and complex numbers appeared as [expected](https://academic247.com/news/jee-main-2027-registration-dates-fees-documents-application-steps). Most well-prepared candidates found this section manageable.
- **Matrices and Determinants** — 2–3 questions required careful computation. Cramer's rule and inverse matrix applications were tested.
- **Trigonometry** — A few questions involved compound angles and properties of triangles. Time-consuming but solvable with NCERT-level preparation.
- **Analytical Geometry** — Coordinate geometry questions on circles, parabolas, and straight lines formed a significant chunk. This section separated top scorers from average performers.
- **Differential and Integral Calculus** — Calculus questions were present in moderate numbers. Candidates who practised previous-year papers found familiar patterns.
- **Statistics and Probability** — 2–4 questions, mostly formula-driven. Quick scoring for those who memorised mean, variance, and basic probability rules.
- **Vectors** — 1–2 questions on dot product and cross product. Standard difficulty.

Overall, candidates reported that the paper was comparable to NDA 2 2025 and slightly easier than NDA 1 2026 Maths for some sets. Time management was cited as the biggest challenge—120 questions in 150 minutes leaves roughly 75 seconds per question.

## Expected Cutoff and Result Timeline

Cutoff marks for NDA are not fixed in advance; UPSC determines them based on the number of vacancies, overall difficulty, and the performance distribution of candidates. However, historical trends provide useful benchmarks.

### Estimated NDA 2 2026 Maths Cutoff Range

Coaching institutes publishing post-exam analysis on 13 September 2026 suggested the following provisional ranges (combined written exam cutoff, not Maths alone):

CategoryExpected Written Cutoff (Out of 900)General / Unreserved340 – 370OBC320 – 350SC290 – 320ST270 – 300

These are unofficial estimates only. The actual cutoff will be published by UPSC along with the NDA 2 2026 result, expected roughly 2–3 months after the examination—typically between November 2026 and January 2027 based on past cycles.

### Key Dates to Remember

- **Exam date:** 13 September 2026
- **Unofficial answer key:** 13 September 2026 (same day)
- **UPSC official answer key:** After final result (several months later)
- **NDA 2 2026 result:** Expected November 2026 – January 2027
- **SSB interview call letters:** Issued to candidates who clear the written cutoff

## What to Do After Checking the Answer Key

Your post-answer-key strategy should depend on your estimated score relative to expected cutoffs.

### If Your Estimated Score Looks Strong

Begin SSB interview preparation immediately. The Services Selection Board evaluates officer-like qualities (OLQs) through psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. Physical fitness—running, push-ups, and medical standards—is equally important. Candidates from Rajasthan and Haryana often join dedicated SSB coaching modules offered by institutes listed in our [guide to cracking NDA in the first attempt through top Rajasthan coaching institutes](https://academic247.com/news/crack-nda-in-first-attempt-top-5-coaching-institutes-in-rajasthan-2027-with-highest-selection-rate).

### If Your Score Is Borderline

Wait for the GAT answer key (released the same evening) before making final judgments. GAT carries 600 marks—double the Maths weight—and a strong GAT performance can compensate for an average Maths score. Calculate your combined written estimate before deciding on next steps.

### If Your Score Falls Below Expectations

Do not lose hope. Use the question paper and solution PDF as a free mock test: solve every question again without time pressure, note weak chapters, and start preparing for NDA 1 2027 (expected April 2027). Many successful officers cleared NDA on their second or third attempt.

## How Coaching Hubs Are Supporting NDA 2 2026 Aspirants

India's defence coaching ecosystem plays a central role in same-day answer key publication. Here is how major hubs contribute:

### Sikar — India's Defence Coaching Capital

Sikar in Rajasthan remains the largest cluster of NDA-focused academies. Institutes here deploy dozens of faculty members to solve the paper live on exam day. Female aspirants can explore specialised programmes through our [Top 3 best girls NDA academy in Sikar 2026 comparison](https://academic247.com/news/top-3-best-girls-nda-academy-in-sikar-2026). For a broader institute overview, refer to the [NDA coaching in Sikar 2026 guide covering fees, results, and selection criteria](https://academic247.com/news/nda-coaching-in-sikar-2026-top-institutes-course-fees-results-how-to-choose), the [Top 5 NDA coaching institutes in Sikar 2026](https://academic247.com/news/top-5-nda-coaching-institutes-in-sikar-2026-fees-results-selection-guide), the [Top 10 NDA coaching academies in Sikar 2026](https://academic247.com/news/top-10-nda-coaching-academy-in-sikar-fees-contact-details), and the [verified rank-1 NDA coaching analysis for Sikar](https://academic247.com/news/which-nda-coaching-is-rank-1-in-sikar-verified-2026). Our city ranking page for [top coachings in Sikar 2026](https://academic247.com/rankings/top-coachings-sikar-2026) places these institutes in a wider competitive context.

### Delhi, Jaipur, and Other Metro Hubs

Delhi NCR hosts some of the oldest defence academies in the country. Explore the [top coachings in Delhi 2026](https://academic247.com/rankings/top-coachings-delhi-2026) ranking for institute comparisons. Jaipur, another Rajasthan hub, offers strong alternatives—see [top coachings in Jaipur 2026](https://academic247.com/rankings/top-coachings-jaipur-2026) and the [best NDA coaching in Rajasthan 2026 overview](https://academic247.com/news/best-nda-coaching-in-rajasthan-2026-why-alpha-nda-academy-is-a-top-choice). For detailed institute comparisons in Sikar, our [Alpha NDA Academy vs Prince NDA Academy Sikar fees and results comparison](https://academic247.com/news/best-nda-coaching-in-sikar-2026-alpha-nda-academy-vs-prince-nda-academy-sikar-fees-results-comparison) breaks down two leading names.

### Other Cities

Defence preparation is no longer limited to Rajasthan. Aspirants in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kota can access quality coaching locally—browse rankings for [Mumbai](https://academic247.com/rankings/top-coachings-mumbai-2026), [Bengaluru](https://academic247.com/rankings/top-coachings-bengaluru-2026), [Hyderabad](https://academic247.com/rankings/top-coachings-hyderabad-2026), and [Kota](https://academic247.com/rankings/top-coachings-kota-2026). Hostel-based defence programmes are catalogued in the [Top 5 defence coaching institutes in Sikar 2026 fees, results, and hostel guide](https://academic247.com/news/top-5-defence-coaching-institutes-in-sikar-2026-fees-results-hostel-guide) and the [Top 3 NDA academy in Sikar 2026 hostel and results guide](https://academic247.com/news/top-3-nda-academy-in-sikar-2026-fees-hostel-results-and-how-to-choose).

### Building the Foundation in School

Long before joining a coaching institute, strong school-level mathematics and English form the bedrock of NDA success. Parents and younger aspirants can review school quality rankings for [Delhi](https://academic247.com/rankings/best-schools-in-delhi-2026), [Sikar](https://academic247.com/rankings/best-schools-in-sikar-2026), [Jaipur](https://academic247.com/rankings/best-schools-in-jaipur-2026), [Mumbai](https://academic247.com/rankings/best-schools-in-mumbai-2026), [Bengaluru](https://academic247.com/rankings/best-schools-in-bengaluru-2026), [Hyderabad](https://academic247.com/rankings/best-schools-in-hyderabad-2026), and [Kota](https://academic247.com/rankings/best-schools-in-kota-2026) to identify institutions with strong science and mathematics programmes.

## Common Mistakes When Using the Answer Key

Even with the correct PDF in hand, candidates often miscalculate their scores. Avoid these pitfalls:

- **Using the wrong set key** — The most frequent error. Double-check your booklet set letter.
- **Counting guessed answers as correct** — If you marked an option randomly and it happens to match the key, note it separately. Your true ability level excludes lucky guesses.
- **Ignoring negative marking** — A paper with 80 correct and 40 wrong gives 200 − 33.2 = 166.8, not 200.
- **Panicking over 1–2 disputed questions** — Unofficial keys routinely disagree on a handful of questions. Adjust your estimate by ±2.5 marks for each disputed item.
- **Skipping GAT score calculation** — Maths is only 300 of 900 marks. Always calculate the combined written estimate.

## Raising Objections Against the Official Answer Key

When UPSC eventually releases the official answer key, candidates who find demonstrably incorrect official answers can file representations through the UPSC online portal within the specified window (usually 7 days from key publication). Each representation must include:

- Question number and paper set
- The official answer marked by UPSC
- Your proposed correct answer with mathematical proof or textbook reference
- Supporting evidence (NCERT page reference, standard formula citation)

Representations against unofficial keys are not accepted by UPSC—only challenges to the Commission's own published key are processed.

## Conclusion

The NDA 2 2026 Mathematics examination on 13 September 2026 marked another milestone for thousands of young Indians pursuing a career in the armed forces. The set-wise question paper and unofficial answer key—with detailed solution PDFs—are now available across coaching platforms and education news sites. Use your set-specific key to estimate your score, analyse topic-wise performance, and plan your next steps wisely.

Remember that unofficial keys are provisional tools for self-assessment, not final verdicts. Combine your Maths estimate with the GAT answer key for a complete picture, stay prepared for SSB if your score looks promising, and use the paper as a learning resource if you plan to reattempt. For ongoing updates on defence examinations, coaching rankings, and school guides, continue following Academic247.