UPSC CDS Syllabus 2026
Combined Defence Services Examination
CDS is conducted for entry into Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy, and Officers' Training Academy (OTA). Graduate qualification is required.
Eligibility Criteria
- Education
- Bachelor's degree (Engineering for Naval/Air Force)
- Age Limit
- 19–25 years (post-specific)
Selection Process
- 1Written Exam
- 2SSB Interview
- 3Medical Examination
Exam Pattern
| Stage / Paper | Questions | Marks | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English | 120 | 100 | 2 hr | Objective MCQ |
| General Knowledge | 120 | 100 | 2 hr | Objective MCQ |
| Elementary Mathematics (IMA/INA/AFA only) | 100 | 100 | 2 hr | Objective MCQ |
| SSB Interview | — | 300 | — | Personality & Intelligence Assessment |
Detailed Syllabus
1
English
Reading ComprehensionFill in the BlanksError DetectionSynonyms & AntonymsPara JumblesIdioms & PhrasesVocabularyOne Word Substitution
2
General Knowledge
Current EventsIndian HistoryGeographyIndian PolityEconomyPhysicsChemistryBiologyDefence-specific GK
3
Elementary Mathematics
Number SystemAlgebraTrigonometryGeometryStatisticsMensurationQuadratic Equations
🎯 Must-Prepare Topics for UPSC CDS
Vocabulary & Grammar
Indian History — freedom struggle
Geography — world & India
Current Affairs
Basic Mathematics (Class 10 level)
SSB Interview skills
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