CDS 2026
Syllabus | Exam Pattern | Eligibility | Salary
About CDS
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is conducted twice a year by UPSC to recruit graduates into the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers.
Exam Pattern
For IMA, INA & AFA
| Paper | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
For OTA
| Paper | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
SSB Interview: 300 Marks
Negative marking applicable.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Indian
- Age:
- IMA: 19–24 Years
- INA: 19–24 Years
- AFA: 20–24 Years
- OTA: 19–25 Years
- Educational Qualification:
- IMA/OTA: Graduation
- INA: Engineering Degree
- AFA: Graduation with Physics & Maths
Selection Process
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview (5 Days)
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Salary After Commission
Starting Salary (Lieutenant): ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month
Plus Military Service Allowances
Sample Question
1. Who is the Supreme Commander of Indian Armed Forces?
A. Prime Minister
B. Defence Minister
C. President of India
D. Chief of Army Staff
Answer: C. President of India