[5] The purpose of the academy is to "train a new generation of highly educated and well-rounded officers for Myanmar's armed forces who are capable of leading the nation".

The DSA emphasizes on the academic curriculum alongside the military training with the intention of developing individuals who are capable of running the entire nation.

As the country's most prestigious military academy, the DSA receives many applications from high school graduates each year.

The structure of the DSA is based on British and American (i.e. Sandhurst and West Point respectively) military training traditions as well as home-grown practices.

In the tradition of American system, the senior cadet officers are assigned to mentor junior cadet officers, overseeing day-to-day training, discipline and welfare of the juniors in general, with the aim of developing the so-called "guardian brotherhood" so as to develop a sense of community, comradeship, faith and trust, chain of command and looking after one another.

In common with other universities in the country, the cadets are required to study Myanmar, English and mathematics regardless of the subject they major in.

The board and room, uniform and food, as well as other essential supplies, for the cadet officers and their tuition costs are borne by the academy.

In the past, up to 18th Intake, the academy allowed so-called private cadets who are well-qualified, and satisfied by admission board, but do not want military service obligation upon graduation.