Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE)

Selection Process

  • Written Examination
  • SSB Interview

Educational Qualification

Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) Bachelor’s Degree From a recognised university
Indian Naval Academy (INA) Bachelors in Engineering from a recognised University
Air Force Academy (AFA) Graduation (with Physics and Mathematics at Class 12 or Bachelor of Engineering)

Age Limit

Eligibility – CDS Age Limit Age Limit (In years)
Indian Naval Academy (INA) 19 - 22
Air Force Academy19 - 23
Indian Military Academy (IMA)19 - 24
Officers’ Training Academy (SSC Women Non-Technical Course) 19 - 25
Officers’ Training Academy (SSC Course for Men)19 - 25

Physical Measurement Test​

Courses Male (cm) Female (cm)
IMA 157.5 cm 152 cm
INA 157 cm 152 cm
AFA 162.5 cm 152 cm
OTA - Men 157.5 cm 152 cm

Physical Efficiency Test

# In CDS physical test, the eligibility of candidates is measured as per height, weight and medical standards.

Written Examination Pattern(IMA, INA, IAFA)

Subject Questions Marks Negative Marks
General knowledge 100 100 1/3rd
English 100 100 1/3rd
Elementary Mathematics 100 100 -
Total 300 300 -

Duration: 120 Mins

Written Examination Pattern (OTA)

Subject Questions Marks Negative Marks
General knowledge 100 100 1/3rd
English 100 100 1/3rd
Total 200 200

Duration: 120 Mins

Syllabus for CDSE ▼

Syllabus for CDSE(PDF) - Syllabus (PDF)