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Written Examination

An objective-type multiple-choice examination. IMA, INA, and AFA candidates attempt 3 papers (300 marks total). OTA candidates attempt 2 papers (200 marks total, skipping Mathematics).

Marks obtained contribute directly to the final merit list alongside the SSB Interview marks.
Paper 1: English100 marks · 2 hours
- 1/3 of allotted marks deducted for each wrong answer penalty
Paper 2: General Knowledge100 marks · 2 hours
- 1/3 of allotted marks deducted for each wrong answer penalty
Paper 3: Elementary Mathematics (Not for OTA)100 marks · 2 hours
- 1/3 of allotted marks deducted for each wrong answer penalty

Preparation Timeline

Suggested phase-by-phase study plan

Phase 1: Foundation Building Months 1-3

Clear fundamental concepts across all subjects (Maths, English grammar rules, NCERT for GK).

  • Read NCERTs (Class 6-10 for Science, Class 9-12 for History/Geography/Polity) thoroughly.
  • Master English grammar rules (Parts of Speech, Tenses) and start reading a newspaper for vocabulary.
  • If aiming for IMA/INA/AFA, complete the basic chapters of Arithmetic and Algebra.
  • Maintain a daily Current Affairs and Defence News notebook.
Phase 2: Depth, Shortcuts & Practice Months 4-5

Learn shortcut techniques for Mathematics, solve advanced English questions, and consolidate GK.

  • Solve advanced Mathematics questions (Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration) focusing on speed.
  • Practice English Reading Comprehension, Cloze Tests, and S1-S6 Sentence Rearrangement daily.
  • Solve topic-wise Previous Year Questions (PYQs) for General Knowledge to understand UPSC phrasing.
  • Start basic physical conditioning (running, pushups) to stay fit for the medicals and SSB.
Phase 3: Mock Tests & Time Management Last 1-2 Months

Take full-length mocks, minimize negative marking, and polish Current Affairs.

  • Attempt full-length mock tests (2 hours per subject) strictly following the exact exam timings.
  • Analyze mocks to identify weak areas. Learn the art of skipping doubtful questions to avoid 1/3 negative marking.
  • Revise Current Affairs magazines of the last 6-8 months.
  • Familiarize yourself with OIR tests and PP&DT pictures to get a head start on SSB preparation.

Exam Details

Concise and stable information snapshot

Overview

UPSC CDS is a premier examination for graduates to join the Indian Armed Forces as Commissioned Officers. The exam has two main patterns: candidates opting for IMA, INA, and AFA must appear for English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. Candidates opting for OTA (Men & Women) appear only for English and General Knowledge. The written exam is followed by a rigorous 5-day SSB Interview.

Posts

  • Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
  • Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala
  • Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad
  • Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Madras) - SSC Course (Men)
  • Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai - SSC Women (Non-Technical)

Eligibility

Educational Qualification IMA & OTA: Degree from a recognized University. INA: Degree in Engineering. AFA: Degree with Physics & Math at 10+2 OR Bachelor of Engineering.
Age Limit 19 to 24 years for IMA/INA/AFA | 25 years for OTA (as per cut-off dates) years
Age Relaxation No age relaxation. Only unmarried candidates are eligible (except for specific cases in OTA).
Nationality Citizen of India, Subject of Nepal, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated with the intention of permanently settling in India

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Dive Deeper into UPSC CDS

Explore specific sections in detail

Eligibility Criteria Exam Pattern & Stages Preparation Strategy Books & Resources Job Posts & Profiles

Recommended Resources

Curated study materials for preparation

English

Objective General English — S.P. Bakshi

Book

Excellent for grammar, vocabulary, and sentence arrangement practice.

Word Power Made Easy — Norman Lewis

Book

Standard book to drastically improve vocabulary.

The Hindu or The Indian Express

Newspaper

Crucial for reading comprehension and current affairs.

General Knowledge

NCERT Books (Class 6 to 12)

Book

The absolute foundation for History, Geography, Polity, and General Science.

Lucent’s General Knowledge

Book

Good for quick revision of static facts and basic sciences.

Pathfinder CDS — Arihant Experts

Book

Comprehensive guide containing PYQs and precise notes.

Elementary Mathematics

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations — R.S. Aggarwal

Book

Best for Arithmetic and fundamental concepts.

Mathematics for CDS Entrance Examination — R.S. Aggarwal

Book

Specifically tailored for Advanced Maths (Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration).

SSB Interview

Let's Crack SSB Interview — SSBCrack

Book

Provides a comprehensive overview of all 5 days of testing.

OIR Test & PPDT — SSB Interview

Book

Essential for clearing Stage 1 screening.

Last updated: 9 Mar 2026