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

No of Attempts

A candidate in general category is allowed a maximum of six attempts, if they are between the age of 21 and 30.

OBC category candidates can take the exam nine times.

Candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories have no limit on the number of attempts

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 19-24
Naval Academy 19-25 years
Officers’ Training Academy 19-25 years