Guide to Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam Guide 2026: Eligibility, Preparation, Exam Pattern, Syllabus

CDS is one of the most recognized exams for candidates wishing to become an officer in the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. The exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year and is the gate exam for all the defence services academies in India, such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officers Training Academy (OTA), Indian Naval Academy (INA) and Indian Air Force Academy (AFA). This detailed guide will provide you eligibility, exam content, pattern and preparation with necessary information and exam resources that will help you in the recruitment process and provide you with a job in the Indian defence services. 

Table of Contents

What is the CDS Exam?

CDS exam (Common Defense Services) is the initial exam for the aspirants wishing to become Officers in the Indian Arm Services. It is conducted by the UPSC twice a year for the four primary military institutions:

  • 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 Army.

The CDS exam tests students on the following general areas: General Awareness (current affairs), English (comprehension), and a basic-level Elementary Mathematics (for IMA, INA, & AFA). It is a means of determining to the nation which defenders are most eligible to to the nation to protect and defend it in service.

Eligibility Criteria for CDS 2026

Before starting to prepare for the CDS 2026 exam, understanding the eligibility criteria is important, as the exam is only open to eligible candidates.

1. Nationality

Indian nationals : Citizens of the following countries: Nepal, Bhutan, and, Tibet as refugees who migrated to India before the 1 962 cut off.

2. Age Limit : 

Depending on the force the candidate wants to, the age limits to apply as follows:

  • IMA: 19 to 24
  • INA: 19 to 22
  • AFA: 20 to 24
  • OTA: 19 to 25

3. Educational Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree from accredited universities for IMA, INA, and AFA.

OTA: Must be a graduate from a university at any disciplinary specialization.

4. Physical Fitness

All candidates, should conform to the physical and medical conditions that are stipulated by the defence academies. Specific physical fitness standards are to be followed and it is advisable to check the official UPSC for these.

CDS 2026 Syllabus: A Subject-Wise Distribution

In the case of the English, General Knowledge, and, Elementary Mathematics (for aspirants IMA, INA and AFA), three areas and streams of study have been emphasized in the CDS 2026 scheme. Therefore, it is worth items of the syllabus.

1. English

An assessment of the title is to evaluate the candidates comprehension and command, as well as, communication of the English Language.

  • Vocabulary: Finding synonyms and antonyms, Idioms
  • Reading Comprehension: Questions related to a given passage
  • Sentence Completion and Correction: Identifying errors and sentence construction
  • Grammar: Verbs, prepositions; Subject-Verb agreement

2. General Knowledge

The General Knowledge section assesses a candidate’s knowledge about the environment, and especially the events related to the History, Geography, Politics, and current issues concerning India.

  • History: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern India
  • Geography: India and the World-physical, social, economic
  • Current Affairs: Significant events at the National and International levels
  • Economic and Political System of India: The Constitution of India, Politics, and other important issues of the Nation

3. Elementary Math’s (For IMA,INA,AFA)

This section is to check the candidate’s mathematical reasoning and is related to basic methods of maths.

  • Arithmetic: Deals with Percentage, Time and Work, Profit, and Loss
  • Algebra: Polynomials, equations, and inequalities
  • Geometry: Lines, angles, circles, and triangles
  • Statistics: Analysis and interpretation of data

CDS PATTERN 2025: MARKING SCHEME

The CDS exam pattern must be understood in detail in order to prepare for the exam in a meaningful manner. The marking scheme and pattern are subject to some change relative to the Academy you are applying to.

For IMA, INA, AFA:

Total Duration: 6 hours (2 hours for each paper)

Total Marks: 300

  • Subjects:
    English: 100 marks
    General Knowledge: 100 marks
    Elementary Mathematics: 100 marks

For OTA (Officers’ Training Academy):

Total Duration: 4 hours (2 hours for each paper)

Total Marks: 200

  • Subjects:
    English: 100 marks
    General Knowledge: 100 marks

Important Notes:

  • Every paper is of objective type multiple choice questions.
  • Negative marking: 1/3 mark will be deducted for every answer wrong.

How to Apply for the CDS 2026 Exam

The steps indicated by UPSC are to be followed to apply for the CDS 2026 exam. The application is to be done only by online.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the official UPSC website (https://www.upsc.gov.in/).
2. Register by using your email ID and other personal details.
3. Fill in the application including your academic details and other personal details.
4. Upload the required documents like passport sized photograph and signature.
5. Pay the application fee (For General/OBC, ₹200; not applicable for SC/ST and Female candidates).
6. Submit the application in the website and print the application for your future reference.

Important Dates:

  • CDS I: February
  • CDS II: November

CDS cut-off is influenced by several variables: candidates presenting, exam difficulty level, and openings available. The cut-off marks are different for each stream and category allotment (General, OBC, SC, ST).

Recent Cut-off Scores (Out of 300)

  • IMA: 130 (2020), 135 (2021)
  • INA: 125 (2020), 130 (2021)
  • AFA: 145 (2020), 150 (2021)
  • OTA: 85 (2020), 90 (2021)

Unlike other academies IMA and AFA, generally, what is considered for OTA, is much lower.

Pro Tip: Never forget to check UPSC official website for the CDS 2026 cut-off once the exam is conducted.

Preparation Tips for CDS 2026

To prepare for the CDS exam, there is a need for focus, consistency, and the right approach. Here are a few of the tips proven to help in the exam preparation.

1. Understand the Exam Pattern

While beginning the preparation, in addition to the exam pattern, ensure that the syllabus as well is understood. This makes prioritization of key topics much easier and time allocation accordingly.

2. Follow a Structured Study Plan

Develop a study plan that divides each subject and topic into less overwhelming sections. Enough time for revision and mock tests should be set aside.

3. Work on Previous Year Papers

By working on previous year CDS exam papers you will become accustomed to the questions and improve your time management. This is one of the best ways to measure the difficulty of the exam.

4. Keep Current Affairs in Mind

Knowing that the General Knowledge section is extensive and fluid, being informed on current global and national news through newspapers, news broadcasts, and reputable news outlets.

5. English Proficiency

Newspapers and novels can assist in the reading practice. Exercises to improve English grammar can also help. A focus on vocabulary and the formation of proper sentences will aid in developing the understanding.

6. Do Mock Tests Regularly

Mock tests will help simulate an actual exam environment. This is an effective way of determining where your strengths and weaknesses lie.

Conclusion

Although the CDS 2025 exam is among the very few most extensive and extremely competitive, it can be accomplished given the appropriate preparation strategy. Knowing the pattern of the exam, being fluent with the syllabus, continuous practicing with previous years papers, and of course the regular practice can increase the chances of securing the exam. Concentrate majorly on your English, current affairs, maths, and general awareness as they are among the most important things.

With this, we hope that you are now equipped with the right information to approach the CDS 2025 exam with utmost confidence and be on the first step of a bright and successful career in the Indian Armed Forces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the age limit for CDS 2026?

  • IMA/INA/AFA: 19 to 24 years.
  • OTA: 19 to 25 years.

Q2: Can female candidates apply for CDS?

Yes, female candidates can apply for OTA and join the Army through the Short Service Commission (SSC). However, IMA, INA, and AFA are not open to them.

Q3: How many attempts can I make for the CDS exam?

You can attempt the exam for as many times as you want. You just have to meet the required age eligibility for the specific academy.

Q4: What is the minimum qualification required for the CDS exam?

For eligibility, the candidates need to have a Bachelor’s degree (for IMA, INA, AFA) or any graduation (for OTA) from a recognized institution.

Q5: How is the CDS interview conducted?

SSB interview consists of a set of psychological assessments, personal interviews, and group activities, and this happens after you pass the written exam.

 

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