CDS EXAM

Exam:

Combined Defence Services Exam

Industry:

Military

Country:

India

Website:

https://upsc.gov.in/examinations/Combined%20Defence%20Services

Combined Defence Services Exam (CDS)

The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for recruitment into the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy.

Exam Stages

The CDS exam consists of two stages:

Written Examination
SSB Interview

Eligibility Criteria

Criteria	Details
Age Limit	IMA: 19-24 years INA: 19-24 years AFA: 19-24 years OTA: 19-27 years
Educational Qualification	Graduation from a recognized university or equivalent
Marital Status	Unmarried male and female candidates (except for OTA)
Nationality	Indian

Exam Pattern

Subject	Duration	Maximum Marks
English	2 hours	100
General Knowledge	2 hours	100
Elementary Mathematics	2 hours	100

Syllabus

The CDS exam syllabus covers the following topics:

English
General Knowledge
Elementary Mathematics

Selection Process

Written Examination
SSB Interview
Medical Examination

Candidates who qualify the written examination are called for the SSB interview and medical examination. The final selection is based on the performance in all three stages.

Who is the CDS Exam Suitable For?

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is suitable for candidates who aspire to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers in the following academies:

Indian Military Academy (IMA) for the Indian Army
Indian Naval Academy (INA) for the Indian Navy
Air Force Academy (AFA) for the Indian Air Force
Officers Training Academy (OTA) for Short Service Commission (SSC) in the Indian Army

The CDS exam is ideal for graduates who are physically fit, mentally alert, and possess leadership qualities. Candidates should be prepared to serve in challenging conditions and be committed to serving the nation.

Related Exams and Certifications

Apart from the CDS exam, there are other exams and certifications that candidates interested in joining the Indian Armed Forces can consider:

Exam/Certification	Description
NDA (National Defence Academy) Exam	Conducted by UPSC for admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA
AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)	Conducted by the Indian Air Force for recruitment of officers in various branches
TES (Technical Entry Scheme)	For recruitment of officers into the technical branches of the Indian Army
TGC (Technical Graduate Course)	For recruitment of officers into the technical branches of the Indian Air Force

Career Prospects and Growth

Joining the Indian Armed Forces through the CDS exam offers a rewarding and challenging career with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. Commissioned officers can expect:

Competitive pay and allowances
Opportunities for higher education and training
Leadership roles and responsibilities
Chance to serve the nation and contribute to its defense

Officers can rise through the ranks based on their performance, merit, and years of service. The Indian Armed Forces also provide post-retirement benefits, such as pension and healthcare facilities.

More Info:

https://upsc.gov.in/examinations/Combined%20Defence%20Services