Combined Defence Services (CDS)
The CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam is a national-level examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to select candidates for the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). Held twice a year, the exam aims to recruit eligible candidates for officer-level positions in the Indian Armed Forces. The CDS exam consists of a written test that assesses candidates in English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics, followed by a SSB (Services Selection Board) interview for those who qualify.
CDS Coaching
CDS coaching is designed to help candidates prepare effectively for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam. The coaching programs generally focus on improving skills in English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. Coaching institutes offer comprehensive training that includes:
Subject-wise preparation with practice papers and mock tests.
Time management and exam strategies
Personality development and interview preparation for the SSB (Services Selection Board)
Regular assessments to track progress and improve weak areas
CDS Educational Qualification
The educational qualifications for the CDS exam are as follows:
Indian Military Academy (IMA): A graduate degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
Indian Naval Academy (INA): A graduate degree in Engineering from a recognized university or equivalent.
Air Force Academy (AFA): A graduate degree with Physics and Mathematics at the 12th class level from a recognized board or university. Alternatively, candidates with a B.E./B.Tech degree are also eligible.
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA): A graduate degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
CDS Examination Pattern
The CDS exam consists of a written test followed by an SSB interview for those who qualify the written stage.
Written Test Pattern
The written exam is divided into three sections, with a total of 300 marks. The exam is conducted in English and General Knowledge, and Mathematics for certain branches.
English (100 Marks)
Tests understanding of the language, vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.General Knowledge (100 Marks)
Covers current affairs, history, geography, and general science.Elementary Mathematics (100 Marks, for IMA, INA, and AFA candidates)
Includes topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics.
After passing the written exam, candidates who qualify must appear for the SSB interview, which consists of multiple stages:
Psychological tests
Group discussions
Personal interview
Outdoor tasks