CDS — Combined Defence Services Exam
Conducted by Union Public Service Commission
Overview
The CDS exam, conducted by UPSC twice a year, recruits graduate-level officers into the IMA, INA, Air Force Academy and Officers' Training Academy.
Eligibility
A bachelor's degree is required, with academy-specific subject needs (engineering for INA, Physics/Maths for the Air Force), within the academy's age band; mostly unmarried candidates.
Exam Pattern
A written exam (English, General Knowledge and, except for OTA, Elementary Mathematics, with negative marking), followed by the SSB Interview and a medical.
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CDS — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eligibility for the CDS exam?▾
A bachelor's degree, with academy-specific needs (engineering for the Naval Academy, Physics/Maths for the Air Force Academy), within each academy's age band; mostly unmarried candidates.
Which academies does CDS recruit for?▾
The Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officers' Training Academy (OTA).
What is the CDS exam pattern?▾
A written exam (English, General Knowledge and, except for OTA, Elementary Mathematics, with negative marking), followed by the SSB Interview and a medical.