CDS
GovernmentNational
Cds 2026 (I)
Union Public Service Commission (Upsc)
Completed
12 Apr 2026
National Level
Government
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Overview
Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) is conducted by UPSC for recruitment to Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Successful candidates undergo training at the respective academies.
Conducting Body
Union Public Service Commission (Upsc)
Category
Government
Level
National
Important Dates
Application Start
Thursday, 20 November 2025
Date passed
Application End
Wednesday, 10 December 2025
Date passed
Exam Date
Sunday, 12 April 2026
Date passed
Eligibility Criteria
Unmarried graduate (for IMA, INA, AFA) or graduate/final year students (for OTA). Age: 19-25 years for IMA/AFA, 19-25 for INA, 19-25 for OTA (Men), 19-25 for OTA (Women). Must be an Indian citizen.
Exam Pattern
IMA/INA/AFA: English (100 marks, 2 hours) + General Knowledge (100 marks, 2 hours) + Elementary Mathematics (100 marks, 2 hours). OTA: English (100 marks) + General Knowledge (100 marks). MCQ format with negative marking. SSB Interview follows for shortlisted candidates.
Syllabus
Detailed syllabus and subject-wise topics will be available once the official notification is released. Prepare with standard subjects and reference materials relevant to government entrance examinations.