Combined Defence Services Examination (UPSC CDS)
Quick facts
| Conducted by | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam level | National |
| How often | Twice a year |
| Mode | Offline + SSB interview |
| Qualification | Graduation (B.Tech for Naval Academy; Physics & Maths in 12th or engineering degree for Air Force Academy) |
| Age limit | 19 – 25 years |
| Age relaxation | none |
| Official website | upsc.gov.in |
IMA and Naval Academy roughly 19–24 years; Air Force Academy 20–24; OTA (short service) 19–25. Exact dates in each notification.
Overview
CDS lets graduates become commissioned officers through the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officers Training Academy (OTA).
Eligibility
- IMA and OTA: graduation in any subject.
- Naval Academy: engineering degree.
- Air Force Academy: graduation with Physics and Mathematics in Class 12, or an engineering degree.
- Age: about 19–25 years depending on the academy; IMA/INA/AFA are for unmarried candidates. Women can apply for OTA and some other entries as notified.
Exam pattern & syllabus
| Paper | IMA / INA / AFA | OTA |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 100 |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | – |
| SSB interview | 300 | 200 |
How to prepare
- Revise Class 10 level mathematics thoroughly.
- Build general knowledge from NCERTs and current affairs.
- Practise English comprehension, grammar and vocabulary.
- Prepare for the SSB interview and keep yourself physically fit.
Latest UPSC CDS updates
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Please note: eligibility, age limits and exam pattern change from year to year. This page gives general guidance only; the official notification for each year is final.