DETAILS ABOUT CDS EXAM
đī¸ Forge Your Path to Officer: The Ultimate CDS Prep Guides
𧎠Conquer Elementary Mathematics
The Maths section can make or break your selection for IMA, INA, & AFA. Master every topic from Arithmetic to Geometry with this expert guide by Gagan Pratap Sir.
Master Maths
đ Master English Grammar
A high score in English is crucial for all CDS entries. Build an unshakable foundation in grammar and vocabulary with Aman Vashishth Sir's proven methods.
Ace English
đ Build Your GK Foundation
Cover the vast static General Knowledge syllabus efficiently. Lucent's is the time-tested, essential resource for mastering History, Polity, Geography, and Science.
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đ° Stay Updated & Current
Don't miss a single mark in Current Affairs. This guide by Tarun Goyal is specifically designed to cover the most relevant national and international events for defence exams.
Stay Current
âšī¸Full Form
Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination.
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Eligibility
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India (or subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugee).
- Marital Status: Unmarried.
- For IMA & OTA: Degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
- For Indian Naval Academy: Degree in Engineering from a recognized university.
- For Air Force Academy: Degree of a recognized university (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering.
đAge Limit
- For IMA & INA: 19 to 24 years.
- For Air Force Academy: 20 to 24 years.
- For Officers' Training Academy (OTA): 19 to 25 years.
đDetailed Syllabus
- English: Vocabulary, Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement, and Jumbled Sentences (Para Jumbles).
- General Knowledge: Current Affairs (National & International), History of India (especially Freedom Struggle), Geography, Indian Polity, Basic Economics, and General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology of Class 10th level).
- Elementary Mathematics (Only for IMA, INA, AFA): Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, and Statistics of Class 10th level.
âī¸Selection Process
The selection is a two-stage process:
- Step 1: Written Examination. Candidates who qualify in the written exam are shortlisted for the next stage.
- Step 2: SSB Interview. The Service Selection Board (SSB) conducts a comprehensive 5-day interview process which includes psychological tests, group tasks, and a personal interview to assess officer-like qualities.
- Step 3: Medical Examination. Candidates recommended by the SSB undergo a detailed medical examination.
- Step 4: Final Merit List. A merit list is prepared based on the total marks in the written exam and the SSB interview.
đ°Starting Salary Potential
After successful training and commissioning, an officer starts as a Lieutenant (in Army), Sub-Lieutenant (in Navy), or Flying Officer (in Air Force) in Pay Level 10. The starting salary, including all allowances, is approximately âš85,000 - âš1,00,000 per month.
đī¸Starting Post & Department
The starting rank and branch depend on the academy joined:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA): Lieutenant in the Indian Army (Infantry, Artillery, Armoured Corps, etc.).
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): Sub-Lieutenant in the Indian Navy (Executive, Technical, etc.).
- Air Force Academy (AFA): Flying Officer in the Indian Air Force (Flying, Technical, or Ground Duty).
- Officers' Training Academy (OTA): Lieutenant in the Indian Army (Short Service Commission).
đJob Profile
The job profile of an officer in the armed forces is one of leadership and command. It involves leading troops, managing strategic assets, and participating in operations. It is a highly respected and dynamic career that demands physical fitness, mental alertness, and unwavering integrity.
đFacilities After Selection
Officers are entitled to a wide range of facilities and perks, including:
- Free accommodation and medical facilities for self and family.
- Access to Canteen Store Department (CSD) facilities.
- Generous leave policies (60 days annual leave, 20 days casual leave).
- Travel concessions and access to officers' clubs and messes.
- Opportunities for higher education and foreign postings.
đ¯Scope
A career in the armed forces offers immense scope for personal and professional growth. There is a well-defined career progression path with opportunities to rise to the highest ranks. It provides a life of honor, adventure, and the unparalleled opportunity to serve the nation.
đī¸Exam Dates & Frequency
- Frequency: The CDS exam is conducted twice a year by UPSC.
- Exam Months: CDS (I) is typically held in April, and CDS (II) is held in September.
đHow to Apply
Candidates must apply online through the official UPSC website. The process involves a two-part registration, filling the application form, uploading documents, and paying the fee.
đExam Structure & Score Pattern
For IMA, INA, AFA:
| Subject | Max Marks | Duration |
|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
For OTA:
| Subject | Max Marks | Duration |
|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
Scoring Pattern: There is **negative marking** for incorrect answers. 1/3rd of the marks assigned to a question will be deducted for each wrong answer.
đ¸Fees
The application fee is âš200 for General/OBC male candidates. Female candidates and candidates belonging to SC/ST categories are exempted from fee payment.
đOfficial Website
For the latest notifications, application forms, and authentic information, always refer to the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in
