Top CDS Exam Coaching Institutes In India

Top CDS Exam Coaching Institutes In India

Updated on Oct 01, 2022 09:02 AM IST | #CDS
Ongoing Event
CDS  Application Date : 28 May' 2025 - 17 Jun' 2025

For those who wish to make a career in the defence forces, the Combined Defence Services (CDS) is one of the prestigious services an individual can opt for. CDS Examinations are conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) of India for the selection of candidates for the Army, Navy and Airforce.

Top CDS Exam Coaching Institutes In India
Top CDS Exam Coaching Institutes In India

Over two lakh applicants opt for writing exams that are conducted twice a year. The passion to serve their country is the prime reason for many applicants. Since it is a government job it does have some perks but ask the officers and they will respond with ‘serving your motherland is the greatest job satisfaction one can have’.

In a country like ours, competition is at the root of every great opportunity. To emerge as a winner in your pursuit, your preparation needs to be impeccable. Careers360 brings 10 best CDS coaching institutes in India that can help you reach your full potential and ace the competition. Read further to understand what makes them special.

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Warrior Defence Academy, Lucknow

Founded by some of the best career coaches, the academy focuses on complete grooming of an individual pursuing CDS or NDA. The conscientiously designed study material with audio-visual aid is complete with proficient outdoors training and personalised attention. The online reviews highlight the presence of industrious faculty who are admired for their teaching skills by the students.

Website: warriorsdefenceacademy.com

Fees: Rs 25,000

Tara Institute (Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Kolkata)

With a great number of selections in CDS and other exams, Tara Institute is a popular choice among students. The institute has 12 years of experience in teaching, eight dedicated faculties and follows a small batch system of just 20 students. Unique study materials, monthly e-magazine and offline and online test series offered here are sure to get you ready for the CDS exam.

Website: tarainstitute.in

Fees: Rs 35,500

The Lakshya Academy (Delhi, Chandigarh)

Colonel Yudvir Singh, who served as an infantry officer from The Brigade of Guards for 27 years, started The Lakshay Academy in 2002. Here students get first-hand training from army veterans who can guide you on the minute details necessary to clear the exams.

Colonel Singh’s experience as GTO (Group Training Officer) for Services Selection Board (SSB ) gives him an upper hand in helping students prepare for success.

The classroom experience, regular mock tests, and supportive atmosphere make this one of the most experienced CDS coaching in Delhi and Chandigarh.

Website: lakshyaacademy.co.in

Fees: Rs 20,000 - Rs 36,000

Impact Academy, Secunderabad

What happens when your faculty members are retired SSB officers? You get first-hand experience of things you might face in the interview and the possibility of selection goes up. They provide a wide range of courses related to defence services and CDS is one of them. Their years of experience in this field makes them one of the popular CDS coaching institutes in India.

Website: ssbtraining.in

Fees: Rs 15,000 - Rs 18,000

The Cavalier, New Delhi

It is no surprise that The Cavalier made it to the list of best CDS coaching in India. The reviews section of the institute’s google reviews is filled with praises for its supportive environment, experienced faculties, in-depth training sessions and assessment.

Website: www.cavalier.in

Fees: Rs 26,500

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The Officers Academy, (Thane and Nerul)

Known for its interactive study materials and intensive assignments, the Officers Academy has earned trust and accolades among students. This is one of the choices available for candidates based in the west coast regions of the country.

Website: theofficersacademy.com

Fees: Kindly visit the website for information

Tides Academy, Chandigarh

“If you’re looking for the latest notes, individual assistance and affordable fee structure, join Tides,” says a former student of the Academy. It is always difficult to find all the good things under the same roof, but this Academy manages to get them all together to offer the best to their students.

Website: tidesacademy.com

Fees: Rs 10,000

Ground Zero Defence Institute, Dehradun

The institute aims at delivering high-quality education and extracurriculars to the students so that they can qualify for their exams with ease. The faculties, their study materials and mock tests enjoy a great reputation among students..

Website: groundzeroinstitute.com

Fees: Rs 35,000

Baalnoi Academy (Delhi, Jaipur and Dehradun)

Considered as one of the best institutes for CDS and National Defence Academy (NDA) preparations, Baalnoi Academy is known for its faculties and training methods. Students find the study materials to be a great source of learning and revision as it is constantly revised.

They are present in many cities across India and this exposure helps them to be a part of the best CDS coaching in India.

Website: baalnoiacademy.com

Fees: Rs 13,000 - Rs 15,000

Georgians Academy

Regarded as one of the best institutes in the country, it has performed consistently since 2013. They are known to groom the students in all-around development focussing on academics. pressure handing and general awareness.

The students who have been a part of the academy recommend the place and its faculties wholeheartedly.

Website: georgiansacademy.in

Fees: Rs 25,000

Now that you have a list of best CDS coaching in India, choose the one that is suitable for you. Prepare well and prosper!

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Questions related to CDS

Have a question related to CDS ?

Hello Aditya,

As a PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) student after your 12th board exam, you cannot directly appear for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam because it requires a bachelor’s degree. However, here’s a clear and concise guide on how you can prepare for and give the CDS exam after completing further studies, tailored to your background:

  1. Understand CDS Eligibility : The CDS exam, conducted by UPSC twice a year, recruits for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).

    • Educational Requirement :

      • IMA and OTA: Any bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
      • INA: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.
      • AFA: Bachelor’s degree with Physics and Mathematics at 12th level or Bachelor of Engineering.

    • For PCB Students : Since you don’t have Mathematics in 12th, you’re eligible for IMA and OTA after completing a bachelor’s degree (e.g., B.Sc., B.A.). INA and AFA are not an option unless you pursue an engineering degree or have Mathematics at the graduation level.

    • Age Limit : 19–25 years (varies by academy; check upsc.gov.in for 2025 details).

  2. Steps to Prepare After 12th :

    • Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree : Enroll in a degree program (e.g., B.Sc. in Biology, Chemistry, or related fields, or even B.A.) to meet CDS eligibility. This takes 3–4 years.

    • Apply for CDS During Final Year : You can apply for CDS in the final year of your degree, provided you complete graduation before the training starts.

    • Application Process :

      • Visit upsconline.nic.in when notifications are released (typically December 2024 for CDS I 2025 and May 2025 for CDS II 2025).

      • Fill out the form, pay the fee (Rs. 200; exemptions for SC/ST/females), and select IMA/OTA as your preference.

  3. CDS Exam Structure :

    • For IMA/OTA : Written exam includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (Maths is optional for OTA).

    • PCB Advantage : Your Biology and Chemistry background helps with General Knowledge (science sections). English preparation is manageable with practice.

    • Challenge : If you’re weak in Mathematics, focus on OTA, where Maths is not required, or practice basic 10th-level Maths for IMA.

    • Next Steps : Clear the written exam, then pass the SSB interview and medical test.



I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries, feel free to share your questions with us, and we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you, and I wish you all the best in your bright future.

To prepare for CDS, CGL, and CAT during graduation, create a clear study schedule focusing on basics, reasoning, and aptitude. Practice daily mocks, improve time management, and stay consistent. Balance college and preparation with discipline and regular revision.

Your date of birth is 24th February 2006, and you will complete graduation in July 2028. For the CDS exam, the maximum number of attempts depends on your age limit and category, but generally, candidates have around 4 to 6 attempts before reaching the age limit.

For CDS 2 2025, with a date of birth of 6th October 2001, you are eligible for both IMA and OTA. The age limits for IMA are 19-24 years and for OTA are 19-25 years as of 1st January 2025, making you eligible for both academies.

Hello Gunal,

As a student born on 05-11-2001 you will have many opportunities to take the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam conducted by UPSC. Age Limits will vary depending on the courses:

  • Indian Military Academy - 19-24 years
  • Indian Naval Academy - 19-24 years
  • Air Force Academy - 20-24 years
  • Officers' Training Academy - 19-25 years

You are eligible, based on your DOB for:

  • IMA/INA/AFA until 2025 (final attempts depending on month of notification and course start) and OTA until 2026.

Best Books for CDS Preparation:

  1. English: Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi (Arihant) and Previous year question papers (UPSC website)
  2. General Knowledge: Lucent's General Knowledge, Manorama Yearbook and follow the daily The Hindu or Indian Express regularly
  3. Mathematics: Pathfinder for CDS by Arihant, NCERT Maths (Class 6-10) and Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal

Required Documents for CDS SSB/Verification:

  • CDS Admit Card
  • 10th & 12th mark sheets and certificates (original & photocopy)
  • Graduation mark sheets and degree certificate (or provisional degree if final year)
  • Proof of identity (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, etc. )
  • Passport size photos
  • NCC 'C' Certificate (if applicable)
  • Domicile/Category Certificate (if applicable)
  • Declaration/affidavit for final year candidates( if results are awaited)



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