Combined Defence Services Examination (I) 2025
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released a notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I) 2025. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online after ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria. The CDS examination serves as an entry point for various prestigious defense academies in India.
Application Fee
- For General and Other Candidates: ₹200/-
- For Female/SC/ST Candidates: Exempted (No Fee)
- Payment Mode:
- Through any SBI branch by cash.
- Using Visa/Master/Rupay Credit/Debit Card/UPI Payment.
- Internet banking of any recognized bank.
Important Dates
- Notification Release Date: 11th December 2024
- Online Application Deadline: 31st December 2024 (till 6:00 PM)
- Last Date for Fee Payment (Offline – Cash Mode): 30th December 2024 (till 11:59 PM)
- Last Date for Fee Payment (Online): 31st December 2024 (till 6:00 PM)
- Application Modification Window: 1st January 2025 to 7th January 2025
- Exam Date: 13th April 2025
Age Limit (as on 1st January 2026)
- Minimum Age: 20 years
- Maximum Age: 24 years
- Born between 2nd January 2002 and 1st January 2006 (inclusive).
- Relaxation for Commercial Pilot License Holders (DGCA Approved): Up to 26 years
- Born between 2nd January 2000 and 1st January 2006.
Academy-Specific Age Criteria:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA):
- Unmarried male candidates born between 2nd January 2002 and 1st January 2007.
- Indian Naval Academy (INA):
- Unmarried male candidates born between 2nd January 2002 and 1st January 2007.
- Officers’ Training Academy (SSC for Men):
- Unmarried male candidates born between 2nd January 2001 and 1st January 2007.
- Officers’ Training Academy (SSC for Women – Non-Technical):
- Unmarried women, issueless widows, and issueless divorcees (not remarried) born between 2nd January 2001 and 1st January 2007.
Note: Age relaxation is applicable as per government rules.
Educational Qualifications
- Indian Military Academy (IMA) & Officers’ Training Academy (OTA):
Degree from a recognized university or equivalent. - Indian Naval Academy (INA):
Engineering degree from a recognized university/institution. - Air Force Academy (AFA):
- Degree from a recognized university with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level.
- OR a Bachelor of Engineering.
For detailed educational requirements, refer to the official notification.
Vacancy Details
- Total Number of Vacancies: 457
Steps to Apply
- Visit the official UPSC website and access the CDS (I) 2025 notification.
- Register and fill out the application form.
- Pay the application fee through the preferred mode of payment.
- Submit the application before the deadline (31st December 2024, 6:00 PM).
- Make corrections, if required, during the modification period (1st to 7th January 2025).
Selection Process
The selection process includes:
- Written Examination: Scheduled on 13th April 2025.
- SSB Interview: Conducted for shortlisted candidates.
- Medical Examination: To assess fitness for defense training.
For additional details, refer to the official UPSC notification.
Important Links
- Apply Online: UPSC Official Website
- Notification Details: UPSC CDS (I) 2025 Notification