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UPSC CDS 2025 - Exam Dates, Syllabus, Eligibility Criteria, Exam Pattern, Notification, Result

UPSC CDS 2025 - Exam Dates, Syllabus, Eligibility Criteria, Exam Pattern, Notification, Result

Edited By Prabakaran K | Updated on May 01, 2024 09:52 AM IST | #CDS

Candidates interested in the UPSC CDS 2025 exam can note that the notification for the exam will be released on December 11, 2025 by the Union Public Service Commission of India. The exam application form will be available on the official website at upsc.gov.in along with the UPSC CDS notification . Before applying, candidates should thoroughly review the UPSC CDS eligibility criteria 2025 to ensure they meet the requirements.

The UPSC CDS 2025 exam is a national-level examination conducted by UPSC, assessing candidates for positions in the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy. It evaluates candidates' proficiency in subjects such as English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Successful candidates may qualify for various officer ranks in these branches of the armed forces.

UPSC CDS 2025 Exam Dates

The UPSC CDS exam dates 2025 is scheduled to take place on April 13, 2024. The highly anticipated UPSC CDS exam will consist of two divisions, Paper I and Paper II, both administered on the same day but during separate sessions. Candidates aspiring to appear for the UPSC CDS exam 2025 should mark their calendars with these below listed crucial dates to ensure timely preparation and participation.

UPSC CDS Important Dates

Events

CDS 1 dates 2025

CDS 2 dates 2025

Release of UPSC CDS 2025 notification

December 11, 2024

May 28, 2025

Release of CDS application form 2025

December 11, 2024

May 28, 2025

CDS 2025 application form last date

December 31, 2024

June 17, 2025

CDS exam date 2025

April 13, 2025

September 14, 2025

CDS Answer Key Release Date

To be announced

To be announced

CDS Exam Results 2025

To be announced

To be announced

UPSC CDS 2025 Application Form

The UPSC CDS application form 2025 will be launched on the official website, upsc.gov.in, on December 11, 2024. Candidates are required to begin by registering for the UPSC CDS exam, utilising either their mobile numbers or emails. After completing the UPSC CDS registration process successfully, candidates will receive their registration number and login credentials via the provided contact details.

Using these credentials, applicants can log in to access the UPSC CDS application form, where they must provide all necessary information and remit the registration fee to complete the submission process successfully.

UPSC CDS 2025 application fees according to category

Category

Fees

General/OBC

₹200/-

SC/ST/PWD/Female Candidates

Exempted

UPSC CDS Eligibility criteria 2025

To be eligible to sit for the exam, candidates must meet the specified criteria outlined in the table below, detailing UPSC CDS eligibility criteria 2025. The UPSC CDS eligibility criteria are as follows:

UPSC CDS eligibility criteria 2025:

Factors

UPSC CDS eligibility criteria

Age

20-25

Education

A graduation degree from a recognized university or equivalent.

Nationality

  1. Applicant must be a citizen of India

  2. A subject of Bhutan or Nepal

  3. A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1st, 1962 with the intention of settling in the country

  4. A person of Indian origin migrating from a neighbouring country with the plan to settle in India permanently.

Marital Status

Unmarried for most candidates, except for women candidates who can apply for Short Service Commission at OTA (Officers Training Academy).

Experience

Not required

No of Attempts

Not specified

Additional points

Candidates with a valid Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India) can apply up to the age of 26, with some conditions for married candidates during training.

Also read:

UPSC CDS 2025 Exam Pattern

Preparing for this highly sought after exam requires a comprehensive understanding of both the UPSC CDS exam pattern 2025 and the eligibility criteria set by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Aspiring candidates aiming to become commissioned officers in the Indian Defence Forces must navigate through the intricacies of the exam pattern and syllabus.

1. Written Exam: The CDS exam is conducted in two stages, with the first stage being the written exam. This exam is further divided into different papers depending on the academy candidates are applying for, namely IMA (Indian Military Academy), AFA (Air Force Academy), INA (Indian Naval Academy), and OTA (Officers' Training Academy). The written exam is pen and paper-based, conducted offline.

2. SSB Interview: Candidates who qualify the written exam proceed to the second stage, which is the SSB (Service Selection Board) interview. This interview assesses candidates' personality, intelligence, and compatibility for a career as a commissioned officer in the Defence Forces.

For Written Test:

Exam mode

Offline

Subjects

English, General Knowledge and Mathematics

Total Marks

300

Duration

6 hrs

Nature of Exam

Objective type

Medium

English and Hindi

For IMA, INA, AFA:

Subjects

English, General knowledge and Mathematics

Duration

6 hrs(2hr/each subject)

Max. Marks

300 marks(100m/each subject)

For OTA:

Subjects

English and General Knowledge

Duration

4 hrs(2 hrs/each subject)

Max. Marks

200 marks( 100m/each subject)

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025

The UPSC CDS 2025 syllabus covers a wide range of subjects to assess candidates' suitability for admission into the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers' Training Academy. The syllabus includes sections such as English, Mathematics, General Knowledge, and OTA-specific subjects.

  • In the English section, candidates can expect topics like Reading Comprehension, Spotting the Error, Synonyms & Antonyms, and Sentence Improvement.

  • Mathematics encompasses Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, and Statistics.

  • The General Knowledge section covers various topics such as Indian History, Political Science, Economics, Geography, Environment, General Science, Current Affairs, and Defence Related Questions.

  • For OTA, the focus is on General Knowledge and English proficiency.

UPSC CDS Admit Card 2025

The UPSC is expected to release the CDS 2025 admit card around mid-April, similar to previous years. The CDS 1 2025 exam will be held on April 13, 2025 following the usual pattern. UPSC will notify candidates about the availability of the admit card through the official website and the email address provided during registration.

To download UPSC CDS Admit Card 2025, one must follow the below steps,

1. Go to the official UPSC website.

2. Navigate to the login section of the website. Log in using your registered account details.

3. Provide the application number and date of birth as per the information provided during registration.

4. Once logged in, locate the section for downloading the admit card and download the admit card.

UPSC CDS Sample Papers 2025

Regular practice with UPSC CDS sample papers is essential for refining speed and accuracy while honing exam-taking skills. UPSC CDS Sample Papers serve as the gateway to comprehensively understanding the exam pattern, facilitating familiarity with the number of questions, marking scheme, and duration of each section, including English, General Knowledge, or Elementary Mathematics (relevant for specific courses).

Acquiring recent and relevant UPSC CDS sample papers from credible sources such as official UPSC websites, reputable bookstores, or recognized online educational platforms is crucial. Integrating UPSC CDS sample papers into one's study schedule is paramount, ensuring allocation of specific time slots and gradual increase in the number of papers as one progresses.

UPSC CDS Answer Keys 2025

UPSC CDS answer keys are typically released a few days after the examination, allowing candidates to verify their answers and gain insights into their strengths and weaknesses. Candidates should approach the official website upsc.gov.in to acquire UPSC CDS answer keys which with discernment, as occasional errors or discrepancies may occur. If candidates find any discrepancies in the UPSC CDS answer keys, they can raise their concerns through the official channels provided by the UPSC.

Also read:

UPSC CDS Preparation Tips 2025

For UPSC CDS 2025 preparation, start early and follow a structured study plan covering all sections: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Practice with UPSC CDS sample papers and mock tests regularly. Utilise reputable study materials and stay updated with current affairs. Engage in group discussions and seek guidance from mentors. Prioritise self-care and maintain motivation throughout your UPSC CDS preparation journey.

UPSC CDS Results 2025

The exact date for the announcement of UPSC CDS 2025 results will be communicated by the UPSC through its official website and other official channels. Candidates should regularly check the UPSC website for updates regarding UPSC CDS result announcements and related notifications.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to access UPSC CDS Results 2025:

1. Go to the official UPSC website at www.upsc.gov.in.

2. Look for the "Examination" section on the homepage of the UPSC website.

3. Within the Examination section, locate the link related to the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam results for the year 2025.

4. Click on the “CDS Results” link to proceed to the results page.

5. On the results page, you will be prompted to enter specific details such as your roll number or registration ID and your date of birth.

6. Enter the required information accurately and click on the submit or view result button.

7. Once you submit the details, your UPSC CDS Results for 2025 will be displayed on the screen.

8. Finally, UPSC may release a merit list of candidates who have qualified for further rounds of selection. Check if your name appears on the merit list if provided.

Also read:

UPSC CDS Cut Off 2025

The UPSC CDS 2025 Cut off will be determined based on various factors such as the difficulty level of the exam, the number of vacancies, and the overall performance of candidates. The cutoff marks are the minimum qualifying marks that candidates must score to be eligible for further rounds of the selection process.

Candidates should note that the UPSC CDS cutoff marks 2025 may differ from previous years, so it's essential to wait for the official announcement from UPSC. Additionally, meeting the UPSC CDS cutoff marks does not guarantee selection; it merely qualifies candidates for further rounds of the selection process, such as the SSB interview for qualified candidates.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. What is the Maximum age limit for UPSC CDS 2025 eligibility?

The maximum age limit for UPSC CDS 2025 eligibility varies depending on the academy/course:

For Indian Military Academy (IMA): 24 years

For Indian Naval Academy (INA): 24 years

For Air Force Academy (AFA): 23 years

For Officers' Training Academy (OTA): 25 years

2. What are the educational qualifications required to apply for UPSC CDS 2025?

Bachelor's degree from a recognized university or equivalent.

3. How many times can a candidate appear for the UPSC CDS exam?

There is no restriction on the number of attempts for the UPSC CDS exam, provided the candidate meets the eligibility criteria regarding age and educational qualifications.

4. How many branches/courses offered through UPSC CDS 2025?

The UPSC CDS exam offers entry into the following courses/academies:

     - Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun

     - Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala

     - Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad

     - Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (for both men and women)

5. Can female candidates apply for UPSC CDS 2025?

Yes, female candidates can apply for UPSC CDS 2025.

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Questions related to CDS

Have a question related to CDS ?

Hello,

For CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) for admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), the eligibility criteria regarding age are as follows:

  1. Age Limit :
    • Unmarried male candidates born not earlier than 2nd January 2001 and not later than 1st January 2006 are eligible.

Since your date of birth is 3rd May 2003, you fall within the eligible age range for the CDS exam.

  1. Number of Attempts :
    • There is no restriction on the number of attempts for the CDS exam as long as you meet the age criteria.

Therefore, you have as many attempts as you need until you cross the upper age limit (which is usually around 24 years for CDS IMA, but it's always best to check the latest notification from UPSC for any changes).

As of now, based on your age, you are eligible to appear for the CDS exam and have multiple attempts remaining.

Good luck with your preparations!

Hello,

Age Criteria for CDS OTA:

  • For Officers Training Academy (OTA) : Candidates must be unmarried and between 19 and 25 years old. The specific birth date range for a given year of examination is usually mentioned in the official notification by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

Age Eligibility:

For the CDS exam conducted in 2026, considering the typical cutoff dates:

  • For CDS OTA 2026 : You should be born between January 2, 2001, and January 1, 2007, to be eligible (this range might slightly vary each year, so it’s best to check the official notification for the exact dates).

Given your date of birth (March 13, 2001), you will be 25 years old in March 2026. Thus, you will fall within the eligible age range for the OTA in 2026.

Educational Qualification:

  • You will complete your graduation in 2023, which satisfies the educational requirement for the CDS exam (a bachelor's degree from a recognized university).

So, Based on the information provided, you will be eligible to apply for the CDS OTA in 2026, given your age and educational qualifications.

Hope it helps you!

Ofcourse you can give cds exam until the age of 25 years if you have completed your graduation.there is no best year for attempting any exam it depends on your preparation if you are confident that you are going to crack the exam go for it dont waste your time for the right time to come.

Cds exam is conducted by UPSC hence it is hard you need to prepare for it do hard work smartly update yourself with ongoing news to get good marks in current affairs section as this is the toughest part of exam which keep changes with time.

Hey there,

The age limit to appear in the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam is a minimum of 18 years and a maximum of 25 years. Additionally, you must be unmarried for some segments like Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA) and Officers’ Training Academy (SSC Course for Men) and have completed your graduation before appearing for the CDS exam.

Given your date of birth is December 17, 2001, you will be eligible to appear for the CDS 2025 exam for segments like Air Force Academy and Officers’ Training Academy (SSC Course for Men) but you won't be eligible for segments like Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA) because these segments require the age between 18 years to 23 years and by the time of CDS exam in 2025 your age will be more than 23 years. So, you won't be able to appear for IMA and INA.

If you need more information on any topic, feel free to ask your questions.

Thank you, and best wishes for your future!

Hey there,

The age limit to appear in the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam is a minimum of 18 years and a maximum of 25 years. Additionally, you must be unmarried for some segments like Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA) and Officers’ Training Academy (SSC Course for Men) and have completed your graduation before appearing for the CDS exam.

Given your age will be 25 in July 2027, you will be eligible to appear for the CDS-1  2027 exam for segments like Air Force Academy and Officers’ Training Academy (SSC Course for Men) only if the CDS-1 Exam helds before July 2027 but you won't be eligible for segments like Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA) because these segments require the age between 18 years to 23 years and by the time of CDS exam in 2027 your age will be more than 23 years. So, you won't be able to appear for IMA and INA.

If you need more information on any topic, feel free to ask your questions.

Thank you, and best wishes for your future!

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