The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is conducted by UPSC twice a year to recruit officers for the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. The exam offers entry into prestigious academies — IMA Dehradun, INA Ezhimala, AFA Hyderabad and OTA Chennai.
It is open to graduates, both men and women. Men can join through Permanent Commission (IMA, INA, AFA) or Short Service Commission (OTA), while women can apply only for Short Service Commission through OTA.
The selection process includes a written exam, SSB interview and medical examination. Subjects in the written test are English, General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics (Maths is not required for OTA).
Age limits generally range from 19 to 25 years, depending on the academy.
CDS is not just an exam — it’s a pathway to leadership, discipline and a life dedicated to serving the nation with pride.