The UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 is a prestigious opportunity for young candidates who wish to join the Indian Armed Forces. This exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and paves the way for admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officer Training Academy (OTA). A career through UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 offers an honourable path to serve the nation while developing unparalleled leadership skills.
Overview of the UPSC CDS I Examination 2025
The UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 is open to both male and female applicants who meet the eligibility criteria. The selection process is rigorous and tests the mental aptitude, physical fitness and leadership potential of the applicants. Successful applicants receive specialized training at the respective academies before being accepted into the armed forces.
UPSC CDS First 2025 Exam Vacancy Details:
| Post Name | Total Posts | CDS I Age Limit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 | 02/01/2002 to 01/01/2007 | Passed/Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in Any Stream at Any Recognised University |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 32 | 02/01/2002 to 01/01/2007 | Passed/Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering at Any Recognised University |
| Air Force | 32 | 02/01/2002 to 01/01/2006 | Bachelor’s Degree in Any Stream with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 Level OR Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | 275 | 02/01/2001 to 01/01/2007 | Passed/Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in Any Stream at Any Recognised University |
| OTA Women | 18 | 02/01/2001 to 01/01/2007 | Passed/Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in Any Stream at Any Recognised University |
Important Dates
Candidates planning to appear for the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 should keep track of the following key dates:
- Application Begin : 11/12/2024
- Last Date of Apply Online : 01/01/2025 Till 06:00 PM
- Fee Payment Last Date : 01/01/2025
- Modify / Edit Form : 01-07 January 2025
- UPSC CDS I 2025 Exam Date : 13/04/2025
- Admit Card Available : Before Exam
- Result Declared : Notified Soon
Application Fee
- General / OBC : 200/-
- SC / ST / Female : 0/- (Exempted)
- Pay the Examination Fee Through Challan or Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card Fee Mode.
Regularly visiting the UPSC official website is essential for timely updates regarding the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualifications
- IMA and OTA: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- INA: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.
- AFA: Bachelor’s degree with Physics and Mathematics 10+2 level or Engineering.
Age Limit
- IMA: Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2007.
- INA and AFA: Similar to IMA but with minor variations in cut-off dates.
- OTA: Male and female candidates within the prescribed age range.
Nationality
Applicants must be Indian citizens or meet other nationality criteria specified by UPSC.
Application Process
The application process for the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 is straightforward:
- Visit the UPSC Website
The application form is accessible on the UPSC online portal. - Complete Registration
Provide your basic details to generate a registration ID. - Fill in the Application Form
Include personal, educational, and communication details. - Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of a recent photograph, signature, and ID proof. - Pay the Application Fee
- General/OBC: INR 200
- SC/ST/Female: Exempted
- Submit the Form
Verify all details before submitting and save a copy of the confirmation page.
Examination Pattern
The UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 comprises a written examination followed by an interview by the Service Selection Board (SSB).
Written Examination
For IMA, INA, and AFA:
- English: 100 marks
- General Knowledge: 100 marks
- Elementary Mathematics: 100 marks
For OTA:
- English: 100 marks
- General Knowledge: 100 marks
SSB Interview
The interview process evaluates candidates’ psychological, physical, and personality traits over five days.
Syllabus Highlights
The syllabus for the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 covers the following areas:
English
- Spotting Errors
- Sentence Improvement
- Synonyms and Antonyms
General Knowledge
- Current Affairs
- Indian Polity
- Defence-related Topics
Mathematics
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Geometry
A deep understanding of the syllabus is crucial to excel in the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025.
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Exam Pattern
Familiarise yourself with the format of the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 to strategise effectively. - Create a Study Plan
Allocate time for each subject and stick to a daily study routine. - Solve Previous Papers
Practising past papers improves problem-solving speed and accuracy. - Stay Physically Active
Engage in regular exercise to meet the physical standards for SSB. - Stay Updated
Read newspapers daily to enhance your knowledge of current affairs.
Physical Fitness
Candidates aspiring for the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 must meet rigorous physical standards. This includes:
- Minimum height and weight requirements.
- Vision and hearing standards.
- General medical fitness.
Training and Career Opportunities
Once selected, candidates undergo rigorous training at academies such as:
- IMA Dehradun
- INA Ezhimala
- AFA Dundigal
- OTA Chennai
Post-training, candidates are commissioned as officers in the Indian Armed Forces, with opportunities for further growth and specialisation.
Salary and Perks
Officers recruited through the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 enjoy attractive salaries and numerous benefits, including:
- Free accommodation and travel allowances.
- Comprehensive medical coverage.
- Pension and retirement benefits.
Serving in the armed forces is not just a job but a commitment to the nation.
Why Choose the CDS I Examination?
The UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 provides a platform for patriotic individuals to serve the country with honour. It promotes leadership skills, builds character and provides unparalleled opportunities for professional and personal growth.
Conclusion
The UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 is a golden opportunity for individuals who wish to join the armed forces. With dedication, strategic preparation and perseverance, candidates can achieve their dreams and serve the nation with pride.
Stay focused, and remember that success in the UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS I Examination 2025 requires consistent efforts and a never-give-up attitude. Good luck!