CDS Exam Date 2025 – CDS 1 2025 and CDS 2 2025 Exam Dates

The Combined Defense Services (CDS) examination is a vital stepping stone for aspiring candidates looking to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this examination is not only prestigious but also crucial for those aiming to secure a position in the defence services. 

With the announcement of the CDS Exam Date 2025, candidates must be well-informed about the key schedules, eligibility criteria, application processes, and preparation strategies. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know regarding the CDS 1 2025 and CDS 2 2025 exam dates.

Overview of the CDS Examination

The CDS examination is divided into two parts each year, offering candidates two opportunities to qualify for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). The examination assesses candidates on their knowledge, skills, and suitability for a career in the armed forces.

Importance of the CDS Exam

The significance of the CDS exam cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in shaping the careers of numerous defence aspirants. Successfully clearing the CDS exam opens doors to a fulfilling career dedicated to serving the nation. Moreover, the examination is a gateway to prestigious training academies, making it a vital milestone for those aiming to join the Indian Armed Forces.

CDS 1 2025 Exam Date and Schedule

The first examination of the year, CDS 1 2025, is set to be a pivotal event for many aspiring candidates.

Notification Release Date

The UPSC has officially announced that the notification for the CDS 1 2025 examination will be published on December 11, 2024. This notification will contain essential information, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and exam patterns.

Application Period

Following the notification release, the application window for CDS 1 2025 will open on December 11, 2024, and remain active until December 31, 2024. Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid any last-minute complications, ensuring a smooth application process.

Exam Date

Candidates can mark their calendars for April 13, 2025, which is the scheduled date for the CDS 1 2025 examination. This date allows ample time for candidates to prepare adequately, emphasizing the importance of a structured study plan and effective time management.

Result Declaration

The results for CDS 1 2025 will typically be announced in two stages. The written examination results are expected to be released around June 2025, followed by the final results, which will include the performance in the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.

Key Events	CDS 1 2025
Notification Release	December 11, 2024
Application Period	December 11 - December 31, 2024
Exam Date	April 13, 2025
Result Announcement	June 2025

CDS 2 2025 Exam Date and Schedule

In addition to the first examination, the UPSC will also conduct the CDS 2 2025 examination later in the year. This provides candidates with another opportunity to showcase their skills.

Notification Release Date

The notification for CDS 2 2025 will be released on May 28, 2025. This marks the commencement of the application process for the second examination, and candidates should remain vigilant for updates on the UPSC website.

Application Period

The application window for CDS 2 2025 will be open from May 28, 2025, to June 17, 2025. Similar to the first examination, candidates are advised to submit their applications promptly to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Exam Date

The CDS 2 2025 examination is scheduled for September 14, 2025. This date offers another chance for candidates who either missed the first exam or wish to enhance their performance.

Result Declaration

As with the CDS 1 examination, the results for CDS 2 2025 will be declared in two phases. The written exam results are expected around November 2025, followed by the final results, which will include the SSB interview performance.

Key Events	CDS 2 2025
Notification Release	May 28, 2025
Application Period	May 28 - June 17, 2025
Exam Date	September 14, 2025
Result Announcement	November 2025

Eligibility Criteria for CDS Exams 2025

To be eligible for the CDS 1 2025 and CDS 2 2025 examinations, candidates must meet specific requirements set by the UPSC.

Nationality and Age Limits

The CDS examination is open to Indian citizens, as well as subjects of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibetan refugees who migrated to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanent settlement. The age limits for various defence academies are as follows:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA): 20 to 24 years as of January 1, 2026
• Indian Naval Academy (INA): 20 to 24 years as of January 1, 2026
• Air Force Academy (AFA): 20 to 24 years as of January 1, 2026 (up to 26 years for CPL holders)
• Officers’ Training Academy (OTA): 20 to 25 years as of January 1, 2026

Educational Qualifications

The educational qualifications required for the CDS exams vary based on the defence academy:

• IMA and OTA: Graduation degree (any subject) from a recognized university or equivalent
• INA: Degree in Engineering from a recognized university/institution
• AFA: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university (with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level) or a Bachelor of Engineering degree

Candidates in their final year can also apply, given they have no backlogs and can present proof of passing the degree at the time of course commencement.

Physical Standards

Meeting the physical standards set by the defence services is crucial for eligibility. The minimum acceptable height for male candidates is 157.5 cm, with slight variations for different branches (157 cm for Navy and 162.5 cm for Air Force). Female candidates must have a minimum height of 152 cm, with potential relaxation of 5 cm for candidates from specific regions.

Application Process for CDS Exams 2025

The application process for the CDS 1 2025 and CDS 2 2025 exams is designed to be straightforward, but candidates must follow each step meticulously.

Online Application Steps

Candidates can find the CDS application forms on the UPSC website during the respective application windows. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Visit the official UPSC website (www.upsc.gov.in) and locate the CDS exam section.
2. Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) if you haven't already.
3. Fill in your personal details, including name, date of birth, and contact information.
4. Proceed to the main application form, providing educational qualifications, preferred exam center, and other required information.
5. Review the entered details carefully before submitting the application.
6. Pay the applicable application fee using the available online payment options.
7. Download and retain a copy of the completed application form for future reference.

Required Documents

To complete the CDS application, candidates need to have the following documents ready:

• Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and passing certificates
• Graduation certificate
• Passport-sized photograph
• Scanned signature
• Valid photo ID (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter Card, Driving License, or Passport)

Candidates must adhere to the specified file size and format requirements when uploading these documents.

Application Fee

The application fee for the CDS exam varies based on the candidate’s category:

• General and OBC male candidates: ₹200
• Female candidates and SC/ST candidates: No fee

The fee can be paid online using credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI. Alternatively, candidates can pay offline at any SBI branch using a challan.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus for CDS Exams 2025

Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus is essential for effective preparation. The CDS exam consists of a written test followed by an SSB interview.

Written Exam Pattern

The written examination pattern varies slightly depending on the defence academy:

For Admission to IMA, INA, and AFA:

• English: 100 marks, 2 hours
• General Knowledge: 100 marks, 2 hours
• Elementary Mathematics: 100 marks, 2 hours

For Admission to OTA:

• English: 100 marks, 2 hours
• General Knowledge: 100 marks, 2 hours

Exam Syllabus

The syllabus for the CDS exam encompasses a wide range of topics, designed to evaluate candidates' suitability for a career in the defence services:

English:

• Comprehension
• Grammar
• Vocabulary
• Composition

General Knowledge:

• Current Affairs
• History
• Geography
• Polity
• Economics
• Science and Technology

Elementary Mathematics:

• Arithmetic
• Algebra
• Trigonometry
• Geometry
• Mensuration
• Statistics

SSB Interview

Candidates who clear the written exam will be invited to attend the SSB interview, which is an intensive five-day process assessing candidates’ personality, intelligence, leadership qualities, and overall suitability for a career in the armed forces. The SSB interview includes:

• Officer Intelligence Rating
• Picture Perception and Description Test
• Psychology Test
• Interview
• Group Testing Officer Task
• Conference

Excelling in both the written exam and the SSB interview is crucial for securing a place in the prestigious defense academies.

Preparation Strategies for CDS Exams 2025

To crack the CDS exams, candidates need a comprehensive and well-planned approach. Here are some effective strategies to enhance preparation:

Familiarize Yourself with the Syllabus

Understanding the CDS exam syllabus is the first step in your preparation. Identify key topics and their weightage, and create a study plan accordingly. This will help prioritize efforts and ensure thorough coverage of all necessary areas.

Utilize Reliable Study Materials

Leverage high-quality study materials to build a strong foundation. NCERT textbooks from classes 6 to 12 are excellent starting points, especially for Mathematics and General Knowledge. Supplement your studies with practice books, previous year question papers, and online resources to enhance preparation.

Practice Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers

Solving mock tests and previous year question papers is invaluable for preparation. These resources help familiarize candidates with the exam pattern, question types, and time management strategies. Regularly attempting these tests will also allow you to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas needing more attention.

Stay Updated with Current Affairs

Given the significant weightage of the General Knowledge section, staying updated with current affairs is crucial. Reading reputable newspapers, magazines, and online news sources will help build a strong foundation in subjects like history, geography, polity, economics, and science and technology.

Enhance Your English Proficiency

Proficiency in the English language is vital for success in the CDS exam. Dedicate time to improving vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills. Regular reading, writing, and speaking exercises will enhance overall language skills.

Maintain a Balanced Approach

Preparation for the CDS exams requires a balanced approach. Allocate time wisely across all subjects, ensuring equal attention to English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. Regular revisions and practice tests will help maintain a well-rounded understanding of the syllabus.

Develop Essential Soft Skills

In addition to academic preparation, focus on developing essential soft skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication. These skills will aid performance in both the written exam and the SSB interview.

Conclusion

The CDS examinations, conducted by the UPSC, represent a significant milestone for individuals aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. The announcement of the CDS 1 2025 and CDS 2 2025 exam dates marks the beginning of a new chapter for countless defence aspirants, filled with excitement and anticipation.

This comprehensive guide has provided essential information to navigate the CDS exam journey effectively. From understanding exam schedules and eligibility criteria to mastering the application process and preparation strategies, we have covered key aspects to help you make informed decisions and maximize your chances of success.

As you embark on this transformative path, remember to stay focused, disciplined, and dedicated in your preparation. The road ahead may be challenging, but the rewards of serving your nation and contributing to its security and defence make every effort worthwhile.

Embrace this opportunity with unwavering determination, and let your passion for the defence services drive you towards your goals. With the right mindset, strategic planning, and consistent hard work, you can unlock the doors to a prestigious military career and make a significant impact on the nation’s future.

Good luck, future defence officers. May your journey be filled with success and the honour of serving the motherland.