The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination is a prestigious gateway for individuals aspiring to serve as commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Conducted biannually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the CDS exam recruits candidates for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial for aspirants to ensure they meet the necessary requirements before applying.
Key Highlights
- Conducting Organization: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Exam Frequency: Twice a year
- Age Limit: Varies by academy (19 to 25 years)
- Educational Qualification: Graduation in any discipline; specific requirements for certain academies
- Marital Status: Generally unmarried; specific criteria apply
- Physical Standards: Candidates must meet prescribed physical fitness levels
- Application Mode: Online through the official UPSC website
- Selection Process: Written examination followed by SSB interview
- Official Website: upsc.gov.in
Nationality Criteria 🌍
To be eligible for the CDS 2025 examination, a candidate must be:
- A citizen of India, or
- A subject of Nepal or Bhutan, or
- A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, intending to settle permanently, or
- A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African countries like Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, and Ethiopia or Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.
Note: Candidates other than Indian citizens must produce a certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India.
Age Limit and Marital Status 📅
The age limits for CDS 2025 vary based on the academy:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA): 19 to 24 years; unmarried candidates born not earlier than January 2, 2001, and not later than January 1, 2006.
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): 19 to 24 years; unmarried candidates born not earlier than January 2, 2001, and not later than January 1, 2006.
- Air Force Academy (AFA): 20 to 24 years; unmarried candidates born not earlier than January 2, 2001, and not later than January 1, 2005. Upper age limit for candidates holding valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India) is relaxable up to 26 years.
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – Men: 19 to 25 years; unmarried or married candidates born not earlier than January 2, 2000, and not later than January 1, 2006.
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – Women: 19 to 25 years; unmarried women, issueless widows who have not remarried, and issueless divorcees who have not remarried, born not earlier than January 2, 2000, and not later than January 1, 2006.
Note: The date of birth accepted by the Commission is that entered in the Matriculation or Secondary School Leaving Certificate.
Educational Qualifications 🎓
The required educational qualifications for CDS 2025 are as follows:
- IMA and OTA: Degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
- INA: Degree in Engineering from a recognized university or institution.
- AFA: Degree from a recognized university (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering.
Note: Final year students are eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of passing the degree examination by the specified date.
Physical Standards 🏃♂️
Candidates must be physically fit according to the prescribed physical standards:
- Height and Weight: Minimum acceptable height for male candidates is 157.5 cm (157 cm for Navy and 162.5 cm for Air Force). For women, the minimum acceptable height is 152 cm. Corresponding weight standards apply as per height and age.
- Vision Standards: Specific vision standards are set for each branch. For instance, for the Air Force, the minimum vision standard is 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other, correctable to 6/6 only for Hypermetropia.
- Other Conditions: Candidates should be free from any disease or disability that can interfere with the efficient performance of duties.
Note: Detailed physical standards are provided in the official notification.
Number of Attempts 🔢
There is no restriction on the number of attempts for the CDS examination. Candidates can apply multiple times, provided they meet the eligibility criteria regarding age, educational qualifications, and physical standards.
Application Process 📝
To apply for the CDS 2025 examination:
- Visit the Official UPSC Website: Go to upsc.gov.in.
- Navigate to the CDS Examination Section: Find the link for the CDS 2025 application.
- Complete the Online Registration: Fill in the required personal and educational details.
- Upload Necessary Documents: Such as a recent photograph and signature.
- Pay the Application Fee: As specified in the notification.
- Submit the Application: Ensure all information is correct before submission.
Note: Keep a printout of the application form for future reference.
Understanding and meeting the eligibility criteria is the first step toward a successful career in the Indian Armed Forces. If you meet all the CDS 2025 eligibility criteria, start your preparation early and stay updated with official notifications on the UPSC website. Proper planning, consistent practice, and physical fitness will increase your chances of success in the exam.
Stay focused, work hard, and take the first step toward your dream of serving the nation!