Combined Defence Services (CDS)
Your focused path to the CDS written examination, SSB interview and a commissioned officer role in the Indian Armed Forces.
What is the CDS Examination?
The Combined Defence Services Examination is a national-level competitive examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission twice a year. It recruits eligible graduates for the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy and Officers’ Training Academy.
Candidates who clear the written examination, SSB interview and medical standards proceed to academy training before being commissioned as officers.
CDS Structure and Syllabus
| Academy | Papers | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMA / INA / AFA | English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics | 2 hours each | 100 each |
| OTA — Men & Women | English, General Knowledge | 2 hours each | 100 each |
CDS Eligibility at a Glance
| Academy | Age | Qualification | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMA | 19–24 | Recognized degree | Unmarried men |
| INA | 19–24 | Engineering degree | Unmarried men |
| AFA | 20–24 | Degree with Physics & Maths at 10+2, or BE | Unmarried men |
| OTA | 19–25 | Recognized degree | Men & women, subject to notice |
Final-year students
May apply if degree proof is submitted by the prescribed date.
Medical standards
Candidates must meet notified fitness, height, weight and vision standards.
The CDS Selection Process
Written examination
English, General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics for IMA, INA and AFA; English and General Knowledge for OTA.
SSB interview
Five-day assessment covering screening, psychology tests, GTO tasks, personal interview and conference.
Medical examination
A detailed medical assessment against the standards prescribed by the defence services.
Final merit list
Prepared from combined written and SSB performance, subject to medical fitness and available vacancies.
A complete Preparation System
Expert faculty
Experienced educators and retired defence personnel.
Study material
Current notes, practice sets and full syllabus coverage.
Mocks & analysis
Exam-like tests with accuracy and speed reviews.
SSB training
GTO practice, psychology drills and mock interviews.
Physical training
Two weekly fitness and endurance sessions.
Doubt support
Focused help from subject experts when you need it.
Important dates and application
CDS I
Notification is generally released in December; the exam is usually held in April.
CDS II
Notification is generally released in August; the exam is usually held in September.
Visit the official UPSC website and complete registration.
Enter personal and educational details accurately.
Upload your photo, signature and identity proof.
Pay the applicable fee, submit and save the acknowledgement.
Dates, fees and rules may change. Always verify the latest UPSC notification before applying.
Academies and Career Paths
| Academy | Location | Commission |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy | Dehradun | Permanent Commission — Army |
| Indian Naval Academy | Ezhimala | Permanent Commission — Navy |
| Air Force Academy | Hyderabad | Permanent Commission — Air Force |
| Officers’ Training Academy | Chennai | Short Service Commission — Army |
Ten Practical Ways to Improve Your Score
Know the syllabus and marking scheme
Create a realistic weekly timetable
Strengthen Maths and grammar basics
Solve previous-year papers
Take timed mock tests regularly
Review every mock in detail
Follow reliable current affairs daily
Build vocabulary through reading
Maintain sleep and physical fitness
Start SSB preparation early
Course includes
- ✓ Complete written syllabus
- ✓ Regular mock tests
- ✓ SSB interview training
- ✓ Physical training support
- ✓ Online learning option
Classroom & online batches
Structured guidance for aspirants across India.
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