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

CDS Eligibility

For IMA and OTA-
you need a degree of a recognized university.

For INA-
Degree in engineering is required. For AFA, you should have a recognized degree and Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level.

Women candidates are eligible for OTA only.

Age Limit-

Indian Military Academy 19-24 years
Air Force Academy 19-23
Naval Academy 19-22 years
Officers’ Training Academy 19-25 years

UPSC CDS (I) 2017 Important Dates

Notification Date: 9 November, 2016
Last Date to Apply: 2 December, 2016
CDS Exam Date: 5 February, 2017

Exam Pattern

S.No. Paper / Subject Questions Duration Marks
1. English 120 2 Hours 100
2. General Knowledge 120 2 Hours 100
3. Elementary Mathematics 100 2 Hours 100

Elementary Mathematics is not required for admission to Officers Training Academy (OTA).

There is penalty (Negative Marking) for wrong answers.