Written by Shehnaz Shaikh
December 12, 2024
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination I, 2025 (UPSC CDS 2025) on its website. The exam, a gateway to prestigious officer roles in institutions like the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officer’s Training Academy (OTA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA), is scheduled to take place on April 13, 2025.
Key Highlights of UPSC CDS 2025 Notification
- Total Vacancies: 457
- Institutions Covered:
- Indian Military Academy, Dehradun: 100 posts
- Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala: 32 posts
- Air Force Academy, Hyderabad: 32 posts
- Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (Men): 275 posts
- Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (Women): 18 posts
- Application Dates:
- Start Date: December 11, 2024
- Last Date: December 31, 2024
- Exam Date: April 13, 2025
Steps to Apply for UPSC CDS 2025
Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Visit the Official Website: upsc.gov.in.
- Click on ‘Apply Online’: Available on the homepage.
- Register for OTR:
- Enter your basic details to receive an OTP on your registered mobile and email.
- Log in with Credentials:
- Use your email, mobile number, or OTR ID with the OTP or password.
- Fill the Application Form:
- Provide personal details, communication address, and select your exam center.
- Upload scanned documents, including a photo, signature, and photo ID.
- Pay the Application Fee: As per the notification guidelines.
- Verify Details: Check the form thoroughly before submitting.
- Submit and Save: Save the registration number and download a PDF of the form for future reference.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS 2025
To apply for the UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2025, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Nationality:
- The candidate must be a citizen of India.
- Subjects of Bhutan, Nepal, or Tibetan refugees who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India are also eligible.
- Individuals of Indian origin who have migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, or East African countries with the intention of permanently settling in India may also apply, provided they have obtained an eligibility certificate from the Government of India.
2. Age Limit:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA): Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2001, and January 1, 2006 (20 to 24 years).
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2001, and January 1, 2006 (20 to 24 years).
- Air Force Academy (AFA): 20 to 24 years as of January 1, 2026. Upper age relaxation up to 26 years for candidates holding valid and current Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by DGCA.
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Men): Male candidates (married or unmarried) born between January 2, 2000, and January 1, 2006.
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Women): Unmarried women, widows, or divorcees who have not remarried, born between January 2, 2000, and January 1, 2006.
3. Educational Qualification:
- IMA & OTA: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university or equivalent.
- INA: Degree in Engineering from a recognized university or institution.
- AFA:
- Graduation (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or
- Bachelor of Engineering.
4. Marital Status:
- For IMA, INA, and AFA: Candidates must be unmarried.
- For OTA (Men): Both married and unmarried male candidates can apply.
- For OTA (Women): Unmarried women, widows, and divorcees who have not remarried are eligible.
5. Physical Standards:
- Candidates must be physically fit according to the prescribed physical standards set by UPSC for admission to CDS.
6. Other Requirements:
- Tattoos are permitted only on certain body parts, as per Indian Armed Forces guidelines.
- Candidates must not be debarred by UPSC or prohibited from holding any commission in the Armed Forces.
Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria before applying for the examination.
Selection Process
The selection process includes:
- Written Examination
- Subjects:
- English
- General Knowledge
- Mathematics (not applicable for OTA candidates)
- Subjects:
- SSB Interview/Personality Test
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
The final merit list is based on the combined performance in the written exam and SSB interview.
Important Links
- Official Notification: Download PDF
- Online Application: Apply Now
- Exam Syllabus and Pattern: Check Details
- Previous Year Question Papers: Download Here
- Admit Card Download: Available Soon
- Result Announcement: Check Results
FAQs
1. When is the UPSC CDS 2025 exam?
The exam is scheduled for April 13, 2025.
2. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS 2025?
The last date to apply online is December 31, 2024.
3. How many vacancies are available in UPSC CDS 2025?
A total of 457 posts are available across various institutions.
4. What is the age limit for CDS 2025?
The age limit varies by institution:
- IMA: 19–24 years
- INA: 19–22 years
- AFA: 19–23 years
- OTA: 19–25 years
5. What documents are required for the CDS application?
- Aadhaar Card/Voter ID/PAN Card/Passport/Driving License
- Scanned copy of photo and signature
- Bank details for fee payment
Final Thoughts
The UPSC CDS 2025 provides a golden opportunity for aspiring candidates to join India’s prestigious defense institutions. With 457 posts on offer, thorough preparation and timely application are crucial.
Stay tuned to Vista Times for the latest updates on UPSC exams, notifications, and preparation tips.