CDS 1 2025 Notification Out for 457 Vacancies, Online Application Started

Union Public Service Commission CDS 1 2025 Notification has been released on 11 December 2025 on the official web portal of UPSC. This Combined Defence Services Notification is released to recruit candidates for prestigious institutions such as the Indian Military Academy, Officer’s Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy. Candidates can fill the online application through the official website or through the link given in the article.

CDS 1 2025 Notification Out

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the CDS 1 2025 Notification as per its annual calendar. Candidates interested in appearing for the CDS Exam 2025 can submit their applications online, which started on 11 December 2024. The application window will close on 31 December 2024. It is crucial for candidates to complete their applications within this period to avoid missing the deadline. The CDS Notification PDF contains data like eligibility criteria, application form dates, salary and all the important details that help the candidates to understand the exam properly. Candidates can check the CDS 1 2025 Notification by clicking on the link given below-

Check CDS 1 2025 Notification PDF – Click here to download

CDS 1 2025: Overview

The CDS Exam takes place twice annually, known as CDS 1 and CDS 2, each having separate notifications, application windows, and exam schedules. The UPSC’s CDS 1 2025 notification offers candidates a detailed guide to all key details.

CDS 1 2025 Exam

The CDS 1 2025 exam represents an important path for individuals wishing to pursue a career in the Army, Navy and Air Force branches in the Indian Armed Forces. The CDS 1 2025 exam is set to be held on 13 April 2025. Successful result in the CDS exam provides admission to prestigious training institutes such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA) and Air Force Academy (AFA), where candidates receive branch-specific training to further develop their skills.

CDS 1 2025: Important Dates

Aspiring candidates should review this information carefully to ensure they are well-prepared for the application process and exam requirements.

CDS 2 2025 Important Dates

CDS 1 2025 Vacancies

The UPSC has announced a total of 457 vacancies for the Combined Defence Services (CDS)-1 Exam 2025, as per its latest notification. You can find a detailed breakdown of the vacancies by academy in the table below.

CDS 1 2025 Eligibility Criteria

As candidates prepare for the CDS 1 2025 exam, it is important to understand the age limit, educational qualification and other eligibility requirements. The CDS 1 2025 notification released by UPSC contains all the details regarding the eligibility criteria. Here are some of the key eligibility criteria:

• Age Limit
• Educational Qualification
• Marital Status
• Nationality

Age Limit

To apply for the CDS 2025 exam, candidates must be at least 19 years old, with the maximum age limit set at 25 years. Both male and female candidates within this age range are eligible to apply. It is crucial for candidates to verify that their age falls within the specified limits to participate in the exam. The detailed age criteria are as follows:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA): 20 to 24 years (2 January, 2002 and not later than 1 January 2007)
• Indian Naval Academy (INA): 20 to 24 years (2 January, 2002 and not later than 1 January 2007)
• Air Force Academy (AFA): 20 to 24 years (Check in the notification)
• Officers Training Academy (OTA): 20 to 25 years (Check in the notification)

Educational Qualification

To qualify for the CDS exam 2025, candidates must hold a graduate degree in any discipline. Those who have completed their graduation or are currently in their final year are also eligible to apply for the exam. It is essential for candidates to confirm that they meet the educational qualifications and other eligibility criteria to successfully participate in the examination.

• IMA and OTA: Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university.
• INA: An Engineering degree from a recognized university is required.
• AFA: Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level, or a degree in Engineering.

Marital Status

All applicants must be unmarried except female candidates applying for Short Service Commission at Officers Training Academy (OTA).

Nationality

Candidates applying for CDS must be citizens of India. Additionally, citizens of Bhutan or Nepal, Tibetan refugees who came to India before 1 January 1962, or persons of Indian origin from neighboring countries who intend to permanently reside in India are also allowed to apply.

• An Indian citizen, or
• A subject of Nepal, or
• A person of Indian origin who has migrated from countries like Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, or Vietnam, with the intention of settling permanently in India.

CDS 1 2025 Apply Online

Candidates willing to appear for CDS 1 2025 can now apply online through the official UPSC website. The application window is open for a limited time, so candidates must complete the process before the deadline to avoid last minute problems. Candidates can apply online for CDS 1 2025 with the help of the link given below.

Click Here To Apply 

CDS 1 2025 Documents Required

Candidates must provide details of a valid photo ID card (e.g., Aadhaar, Voter Card, PAN, Passport, Driving License, or any other government-issued ID) while registering and filling the online application form. A scanned copy of the ID must also be uploaded. This photo ID will be used for future references, and candidates are advised to carry it during the examination, personality test or SSB.

In addition, candidates will need to provide their bank details for online fee payment. Once these documents are prepared, candidates can complete their application form smoothly and efficiently. It’s important to ensure that all the required information is accurate to avoid any disruptions during the application process.

CDS 1 2025 Application Fee

For CDS 1 2025, the application fee is set at Rs 200, applicable only to candidates in the general category. Payment can be made using Visa, Mastercard, or Rupay credit/debit cards, or through net banking. Additionally, candidates have the option to pay the fee offline by depositing cash at any branch of SBI Bank. It’s important to remember that the application fee is non-refundable once paid.

How to Apply Online for CDS 1 2025 Exam?

The UPSC has launched a One Time Registration (OTR) platform that allows candidates to fill out application forms for any examination. This registration is a one-time process and can be completed at any point during the year. However, candidates can modify their OTR details within 7 days of completing the registration. To register for the OTR, candidates should follow the steps outlined below.

1. Visit UPSC Official Website: Open your browser and go to upsconline.nic.in.
2. Select “New Registration”: On the homepage, click on the “New Registration” tab to start the registration process.
3. Enter Personal Details: Fill in your personal information such as your Name, Father’s Name, Mother’s Name, Mobile Number, and Email ID accurately.
4. Complete the Captcha: Enter the captcha code as displayed on the screen to verify you are not a robot.
5. Submit the Registration Form: After filling in all the details, click the “Submit” button to move forward.
6. Receive OTP Confirmation: An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to both your registered mobile number and email ID for verification purposes.
7. Re-login and Reset Password: Use the OTP to log back into your newly created account and reset your password.
8. Access CDS Application Link: Once logged in again, find the link for the CDS application and proceed with the form submission process.

CDS Syllabus PDF

For those aspiring to enter the ranks of the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or Officers Training Academy (OTA), grasping the CDS 2025 syllabus is a crucial step. The syllabus highlights three major subjects to concentrate on:

• Mathematics
• English
• General Knowledge

A thorough understanding of these topics will empower you to devise a tailored study plan that caters to the exam’s structure and scoring methodology. To support your preparations, you can easily download the syllabus PDF from the link below.

Click here to download CDS Syllabus 2025 PDF

CDS 2025 Exam Pattern

Candidates preparing for the CDS 2025 Exam should familiarize themselves with the exam pattern. The CDS Exam is conducted in three shifts and comprises three subjects: English, General Awareness, and Mathematics. Candidates applying for the Officers Training Academy (OTA) are required to take only Papers 1 and 2, while those targeting the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA) must complete all three papers.

Below is a structured table that outlines the CDS 2024 Exam Pattern, including details about the subjects, duration, and maximum marks for each paper.

To get into the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy:

To get into the Officers Training Academy:

CDS 2025 Selection Process

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam is a crucial entry point for individuals aspiring to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. This selection process consists of multiple stages designed to assess candidates’ knowledge, skills, and overall suitability for a career in defense. Each stage is thoughtfully structured to evaluate different competencies, as outlined below.

• Written Examination: Candidates must pass a multiple-choice written test that covers the following subjects:
• • English
  • General Knowledge
  • Elementary Mathematics
• Interview/Personality Test: Successful candidates from the written examination will undergo an interview and personality assessment conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). This assessment evaluates the candidates’ officer-like qualities and leadership skills.
• Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates are required to provide original documents for verification. This includes:
• • Educational certificates
  • Proof of age
• Medical Examination: Candidates who pass the interview will undergo a medical examination at a Military Hospital to assess their physical fitness.
• Final Merit List: Selection is based on the candidates’ performance in the written examination, interview, and medical tests. Candidates will be assigned seats in the respective academies based on their ranks in the final merit list.

CDS 2025 SSB Interview

After the written exam, the candidates who qualify will have to undergo intelligence and personality test at the Service Selection Board (SSB) based on their preferred service. The SSB interview of CDS 2025 is conducted 1 month after the result. There are 2 main stages of CDS interview which are given below.

Stage 1: involves Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception & Description Test (PP & DT) for screening.
Stage 2: consists of Psychology Tests, Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks, Interview, and Conference

CDS 2025 Salary

The salary and grade pay for officers in the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy are crucial for attracting and retaining skilled individuals dedicated to serving in the armed forces. The salary package is structured to reflect an officer’s rank, responsibilities, and length of service. Below is a detailed table outlining the salary structure for officers according to their respective ranks in these branches.

CDS 2025 Marking Scheme

It is extremely important for candidates preparing for the CDS exam to understand the marking system. In this exam, 1/3 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. If candidates choose more than one option for a question, it will be considered as a wrong answer, and will lead to negative marking. However, if a candidate leaves a question unanswered, there is no penalty for that, i.e., there is no negative marking for unanswered questions.

CDS Cut off 2025

In the UPSC recruitment framework, the cut-off marks for the CDS exam signify both the exam’s competitiveness and the candidate’s relative standings in the selection process. To qualify for the CDS 2025 written examination, candidates are required to score a minimum of 20% in each subject. Additionally, achieving the overall cut-off is essential to progress to the SSB interview stage. Although the official cut-off for the 2024 exam has not been announced yet, we will keep you informed as soon as it is released.

CDS Result 2025

The CDS 1 2025 exam is scheduled for 13 April 2025, with results expected to be announced approximately one month later. Admission into various defense academies will depend on candidate’s performances across both the written exam and the SSB Interview phases. The result declaration process occurs in two stages: first, the written examination results will be released, followed by the final results, which include the SSB Interview.

CDS 1 2025 Answer Key

UPSC will release the answer key of CDS 1 2025 soon after the written exam. Candidates will be able to match their answers with the help of this answer key and assess their performance in the exam.

How to Access the CDS 1 2025 Answer Key:

• Open the official UPSC website.
• Navigate to the CDS 1 2025 exam section.
• Locate and click on the answer key link to download it.
• Compare the answer key with your exam responses to estimate your score.
• If any errors or issues are found, report them using UPSC’s official channels for correction.

CDS Exam Centers 2025

It is very important to know the exam centers for the upcoming CDS 1 2025 exam by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The exam will be conducted in various cities of India, giving candidates a choice of multiple locations. Some of the major exam centers include:

This list covers several major and regional cities, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of candidates.

Best CDS Books for 2025

If you are in search of the best resources for preparing for the CDS 2025 exam, your quest ends here. Selecting the appropriate study materials is crucial, as they can significantly enhance your preparation and set you on the path to success. A variety of books are available to assist candidates in their preparation for the upcoming CDS 1 exam in 2025. You can conveniently find a wide selection of these books on the Adda 247 website or app.

CDS Exam Preparation

To prepare effectively for the CDS 2025 exams, begin by familiarizing yourself with the exam pattern, which consists of papers in Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge. Use appropriate study materials, such as NCERT textbooks, to grasp fundamental concepts in Mathematics and Science. Keep abreast of current affairs by regularly reading newspapers and relevant magazines.

Time management is crucial—practice with previous years’ question papers and regularly take mock tests to evaluate your readiness. Continuously review important topics and maintain a balanced routine to support your well-being. With dedicated effort and strategic preparation, you can achieve success in the CDS 2025 exams.

Here are some tips to improve your preparation:

• Understand the Exam Structure: To kickstart your preparation for the CDS exam, familiarize yourself with its structure. The exam consists of three sections: Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge. Mathematics focuses on topics such as Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry, while the English section tests comprehension and grammar skills. General Knowledge includes Current Affairs and fundamental Science concepts.
• Create a Study Schedule: Develop a detailed study plan that designates specific time slots for each subject. Prioritize areas where you feel less confident to ensure comprehensive coverage before the exam date. This structured approach will help you manage your time efficiently and stay organized in your preparation.
• Concentrate on Core Subjects: For Mathematics, focus on solving various types of problems and mastering essential formulas. Enhance your English skills by expanding your vocabulary and understanding grammatical structures. Stay informed about recent events for the General Knowledge section, and review key Science concepts regularly to build a solid foundation.
• Take Mock Exams: Incorporate regular mock tests into your study routine to evaluate your progress in terms of speed and accuracy. After each test, analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement. This practice will help you build confidence and refine your test-taking strategies.
• Prepare for the Interview: Once you clear the CDS exam, shift your focus to the interview stage. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and be prepared to discuss your background, interests, and motivations. Mock interviews with friends or mentors can greatly enhance your preparation for this crucial step.

By following these strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the CDS 2025 exams and succeed in your pursuit of a career in the Indian Defence Forces.