Joining the Indian Defence Forces is not just a career choice but it is a life of pride with discipline, purpose, and unmatched honour. There are many entries are available for graduates to serve the nation but the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam stands out as one of the most respected and competitive options.
It is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission. CDS exam is available for both men and women to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).
CDS is not just an exam but it is a test of your ambition, willpower, and dedication to serve the nation.
Why CDS is a Better Career Option for Youth ?
A Life of Dignity and Honor :-
A career through CDS offers more than not just a job – it gives you a uniform, an identity, and a mission. Serving in the Armed Forces is a matter of national pride with honour.
Growth with Purpose :-
Unlike many private jobs that focus only on personal growth, the Armed Forces blend individual development with service to the nation. Leadership, physical fitness, mental strength, and ethics are all built into the daily routine.
Job Security and Respect :-
While the world may be unpredictable, defence jobs provide complete security, respect in society, and financial stability from the very beginning.
Eligibility Criteria’s for CDS :-
CDS aspirants must meet the following requirements :-
Nationality
- Must be a citizen of India, subject of Bhutan/Nepal, or a Tibetan refugee (who came before Jan 1, 1962).
Age Limit
- IMA : 19 to 24 years
- INA : 19 to 22 years
- AFA : 20 to 24 years
- OTA (Men/Women) : 19 to 25 years
Educational Qualification :-
- IMA and OTA : Graduation in any stream from a recognized university.
- INA : Degree in Engineering.
- AFA : Graduation with Physics and Maths in 10+2 or B.E/B.Tech.
Gender and Marital Status :-
- IMA, INA, AFA : Unmarried male candidates
OTA : Both unmarried male and female candidates
CDS Examination and Selection Process :-
The CDS selection process involves three main stages :
1. Written Examination
- Conducted by UPSC
- Objective-type questions
- For IMA, INA, AF A:
- English – 100 marks
- General Knowledge – 100 marks
- Elementary Mathematics – 100 marks
- For OTA :
- English – 100 marks
- General Knowledge – 100 marks
Negative marking is applicable for wrong answers.
2. SSB Interview
The most challenging part of CDS selection is the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview. This is a 5-day test of your psychological, physical, and personality assessment.
SSB Includes :–
- Screening Test (Day 1)
- Psychological Tests (Day 2)
- Group Testing (Days 3 & 4)
- Personal Interview
- Conference (Day 5)
SSB not only checks your intelligence but also your officer-like qualities (OLQs) such as teamwork, leadership, responsibility, and confidence.
3. Medical Examination
Selected candidates must be medically fit as per defence standards. Height, weight, eyesight, and general health are tested.
Training After Selection
Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
- Duration : 1.5 years
- Produces officers for the Indian Army (Permanent Commission)
Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala
- Duration : 1.5 years
- Focuses on academics and naval warfare training
Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad
- Duration : 1.5 years
- Intensive flying and academic training for air warriors
Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai
- Duration : 49 weeks
- Produces Short Service Commission (SSC) officers for both men and women
Note : The training is tough but transforms civilians into confident and capable future leaders.
Life After Training : Transfer and Responsibilities After Commissioning
Post-training, officers are commissioned into various units and formations across the country :
- Indian Army : Posted in border areas, field units, and command Headquarters
- Navy : Onboard ships, naval bases, and submarines
- Air Force : In squadrons, airbases, or as flying instructors
You may be posted in peace areas, field locations, or high-altitude regions like Siachen Glacier.
Pay, Perks, and Allowances
Joining through CDS provides excellent financial and lifestyle benefits :
Pay Scale
- Starting salary for a Lieutenant : Rs 56,100 – Rs 1,77,500 per month
- Plus Military Service Pay : Rs 15,500/month
Allowances
- High Altitude Allowance
- Field Area Allowance
- Flying Pay (AFA)
- Uniform Allowance
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Transport Allowance
Other Benefits
- Free medical for officer and dependents
- CSD canteen privileges
- Furnished accommodation or HRA
- Pension (for Permanent Commission)
- Retirement benefits
- Study leaves and deputation opportunities abroad
Important Questions and Answers
Q1. Can girls apply for CDS ?
Yes, women can apply for OTA Chennai under Short Service Commission (Non-Technical) category.
Q2. How many attempts are allowed for CDS ?
There is no official limit on the number of attempts, but candidates must be within the age bracket.
Q3. Is mathematics compulsory for CDS ?
Only for IMA, INA, AFA aspirants. OTA candidates do not need to appear for Mathematics.
Q4. Can candidates in the final year of graduation apply ?
Yes, but they must submit proof of graduation before the SSB interview.
Q5. Is there any coaching required ?
While self-study with discipline is enough for many aspirants if they understand the its requirements, But coaching classes can help streamline preparation and build confidence for better performances in SSB.
Conclusion :-
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination is more than just a carier But it’s the first step toward a life filled with honour, courage, and purpose. For youth dreaming of a meaningful career that contributes to national service, CDS offers an unmatched opportunity.
Yes, the road is tough. Yes, the competition is fierce. But so are those who choose to walk it. Whether you are drawn to the skies as a pilot, the seas as a naval officer, or the land as a soldier – CDS is your gateway to become a true warrior of the nation.
If you are a youth and fulfilling all the discussed criteria’s and looking for a career with respect, growth, discipline, and a chance to become a real-life hero, start preparing for CDS today. The nation awaits its next generation of brave leaders.
