The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as commissioned officers. CDS is one of the most prestigious defence examinations in India and offers a respected and stable career in the armed forces.
Defence Academies Through CDS Exam
Candidates selected through the CDS examination are admitted to the following premier defence academies:
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Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
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Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala
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Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad
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Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Men & Women)
After successful training, candidates are commissioned as officers in their respective services.
Important Dates (Tentative)
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Application Process: December
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Written Examination: April
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Exam Frequency: Conducted twice a year (CDS-I and CDS-II)
Educational Qualification
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A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory
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For Naval Academy: Engineering degree required
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For Air Force Academy: Graduation with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level
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Final-year students are also eligible to apply
Age Limit
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Age criteria vary according to the academy
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Generally, the age limit ranges between 19 to 24 years
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Age is calculated as per the official cutoff date mentioned in the notification
Selection Process
The CDS selection process consists of two stages:
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Written Examination conducted by UPSC
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SSB Interview and Medical Examination
Candidates who qualify the written exam are called for the Service Selection Board (SSB) Interview, which assesses leadership qualities, mental ability, personality, and physical fitness.
Salary and Benefits
Candidates selected through CDS receive:
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Attractive salary as per defence pay structure
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Military allowances
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Government accommodation
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Free medical facilities
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Pension and post-retirement benefits
Salary increases with rank and years of service.
Why Choose CDS as a Career?
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Opportunity to serve the nation with pride
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Prestigious and respected profession
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Secure and disciplined lifestyle
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Leadership and personality development
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Long-term career growth and social status