Best CDS Online Coaching

CDS Exam Pattern

The CDS exam is divided into three sections depending on the academy you are applying for. The exam is conducted in two stages: the written exam and the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview.

1. Written Exam Pattern

• Total Duration: 6 hours (for all three papers combined)
• Marking Scheme: 100 marks per paper, with negative marking of 1/3 for each wrong answer.

For IMA, INA, AFA Candidates

• English: 100 marks (2 hours)
• General Knowledge: 100 marks (2 hours)
• Elementary Mathematics: 100 marks (2 hours)

For OTA Candidates

• English: 100 marks (2 hours)
• General Knowledge: 100 marks (2 hours)

2. SSB Interview

After qualifying the written exam, candidates are called for the SSB interview, which assesses the candidate’s personality, leadership, and suitability for officer roles. This interview lasts 5 days and includes:

• Psychological Tests
• Group Discussions
• Outdoor tasks
• Personal Interview

CDS Syllabus

The CDS syllabus covers three main subjects: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Here’s a breakdown:

1. English

• Grammar and Vocabulary: Sentence structure, use of tenses, articles, prepositions, etc.
• Comprehension: Passage-based questions.
• Synonyms and Antonyms
• Error spotting
• Fill in the blanks

2. General Knowledge

• Current Affairs: National and international news, sports, awards, etc.
• History: Modern and ancient history of India and the world.
• Geography: Physical, social, and economic geography of India and the world.
• Polity: Indian Constitution, political systems, governance, etc.
• Economy: Basic economic concepts and general economic trends.
• Science: Basic principles of physics, chemistry, and biology.
• Defence and security-related topics: Knowledge of the Indian Armed Forces and defence-related issues.

3. Elementary Mathematics

• Arithmetic: Simplification, percentages, ratio and proportion, averages, time and work, etc.
• Algebra: Equations, quadratic equations, and basic algebraic identities.
• Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, circles, mensuration.
• Trigonometry: Trigonometric ratios and identities.
• Statistics: Mean, median, mode, probability, and data interpretation.

Eligibility Criteria for CDS Exam

1. Nationality

• Indian citizens, or
• Subjects of Nepal or Bhutan, or
• Tibetan Refugees who came to India before January 1, 1962, intending to settle permanently in India, or
• Persons of Indian Origin who have migrated from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Burma, East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania (formerly Tanganyika and Zanzibar), Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka intending to settle in India permanently.

2. Age Limit

• Indian Military Academy (IMA): 19 to 24 years
• Indian Naval Academy (INA): 19 to 22 years
• Air Force Academy (AFA): 19 to 23 years
• Officers Training Academy (OTA): 19 to 25 years

3. Educational Qualification

• IMA: A graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
• INA: A degree in Engineering from a recognized university.
• AFA: A degree in Engineering or a graduate degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level.
• OTA: A graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university.

4. Physical Standards

Candidates must meet the physical and medical standards as prescribed by the Indian Armed Forces. This includes height, weight, vision, and overall health criteria.

How to Apply for CDS Exam?

• Candidates must apply online via the UPSC official website (www.upsc.gov.in).
• Fill out the application form, pay the exam fee, and upload required documents like photographs and signatures.
• Ensure to check the official UPSC notification for the specific exam dates and other instructions before applying.