Defence
CDS (Combined Defence Services Examination)
Last updated 17 Oct 2026
UPSC exam for entry into the Indian Military Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy and Officers Training Academy.
Twice a Year
Bachelor's
Defence
About the Exam
Conducted by the UPSC, CDS is one of the main routes for graduates to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers, followed by training at the respective academy.
Eligibility (illustrative)
- •Bachelor's degree (specific stream requirements vary by academy applied for)
- •Age limits and physical/medical standards apply — always check the current official notification
Exam Pattern
- Written
- Objective papers (English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics — varies by academy)
- Further stages
- SSB interview, medical examination
Editorial guidance from the CareerChowk team on exam structure and eligibility. Dates, vacancies, cut-offs and results are not shown here — always check the exam's official notification for current information.
Rules, deadlines and current details can change — always confirm specifics on the official exam website, upsc.gov.in ↗, rather than relying on this page alone.