Complete Schedule and Key Dates for CDS 1 2025 Exam Released by UPSC

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is a gateway for aspirants who dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces as officers. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this exam is held twice a year—CDS 1 and CDS 2—to recruit candidates into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). The CDS 1 2025 exam date has been officially announced, and it’s time for candidates to gear up with their preparation strategies and application materials.

Overview of CDS 1 2025 Exam

The CDS examination is a national-level competitive exam held by UPSC. It is designed to select eligible graduates who wish to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. The selected candidates are trained at one of the prestigious defence academies based on their preference and merit.

Conducting Body: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

Exam Name: Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS 1) 2025

Purpose: Recruitment of officers in IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA

Eligibility Criteria for CDS 1 2025

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements across several parameters.

Nationality

Must be a citizen of India, or a subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962.

Educational Qualification

IMA and OTA: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university.

INA: Degree in Engineering.

AFA: Graduation with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or a degree in Engineering.

Age Limit (as of 1st January 2026)

IMA: Unmarried male candidates between 19 and 24 years.

INA: Unmarried male candidates between 19 and 22 years.

AFA: Unmarried male candidates between 20 and 24 years.

OTA: Men and women (unmarried/widow/divorcee) between 19 and 25 years.

Marital Status

For IMA, INA, AFA: Only unmarried males.

For OTA: Both male and female candidates; women can be unmarried, widowed, or divorced without encumbrances.

Important Dates for CDS 1 2025

Staying on top of deadlines is crucial for success. Here's the full timeline for CDS 1 2025:

Notification Release Date: 11 December 2024

Application Start Date: 11 December 2024

Application End Date: 31 December 2024

Admit Card Release: 3 weeks before the exam (tentatively mid-January 2025)

CDS 1 2025 Exam Date: 16 February 2025 (Sunday)

Result Declaration: March–April 2025 (Tentative)

CDS 1 2025 Exam Pattern

The CDS examination comprises a written test followed by an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). The exam pattern varies based on the academy a candidate is applying for.

For IMA, INA, and AFA

For OTA (Men & Women)

Marking Scheme:

Each paper carries multiple-choice questions.

1/3rd mark is deducted for every incorrect answer.

Syllabus Highlights

A solid understanding of the CDS syllabus can sharpen preparation and boost performance.

English

Vocabulary and Grammar

Reading Comprehension

Sentence Correction

Para Jumbles

Synonyms/Antonyms

General Knowledge

Current Affairs (national and international)

History of India

Geography

Indian Polity

Economy

Science and Technology

Defence-related topics

Elementary Mathematics (Only for IMA/INA/AFA)

Arithmetic (Number Systems, Percentages, Time & Distance)

Algebra

Geometry

Trigonometry

Mensuration

Statistics

How to Apply for CDS 1 2025: Step-by-Step Process

Follow these steps to apply online when applications open:

Step 1: Registration

Visit the official UPSC application portal (details available through government notices).

Click on “CDS 1 2025” and complete Part 1 Registration with basic details.

Step 2: Fill Application Form

Login with your registration ID and complete Part 2.

Enter academic details, address, and preferred examination center.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Upload scanned passport-size photograph and signature as per prescribed format.

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the application fee (₹200 for general category; no fee for SC/ST/female candidates).

Step 5: Submit and Print

Submit the form and take a printout of the application for reference.

Tips for CDS 1 2025 Preparation

Start Early: Begin preparation at least 4–5 months in advance.

Daily Current Affairs: Stay updated with daily news, especially defence, politics, and science.

Strengthen Basics: Brush up school-level math and English fundamentals.

Mock Tests: Regular practice of mock tests will help with speed and accuracy.

Previous Year Papers: Solve at least 5 years’ worth of question papers for familiarity.

Time Management: Allocate specific time slots daily to each subject and stick to a routine.

SSB Readiness: Start working on communication skills, general awareness, and personality development for the interview stage.

Final Thoughts

CDS 1 2025 is not just an exam—it’s a stepping stone to a career of honor, service, and leadership in the Indian Armed Forces. With the exam date now confirmed for 16 February 2025, aspirants should begin their journey with focus and discipline. From understanding the eligibility to practicing mock papers and perfecting your interview skills, every step matters.

FAQ for CDS 1 2025 Exam Date

1. When will the CDS 1 2025 exam be conducted?
The CDS 1 2025 exam is scheduled to be conducted on 16 February 2025 (Sunday), as per the official UPSC calendar.

2. When will the official notification for CDS 1 2025 be released?
The official notification for CDS 1 2025 will be released on 11 December 2024 by UPSC.

3. What is the last date to apply for CDS 1 2025?
The last date to submit the application form for CDS 1 2025 is 31 December 2024.

4. When will the CDS 1 2025 admit card be available?
The admit card for CDS 1 2025 will likely be released three weeks before the exam, tentatively in mid-January 2025.

5. When can we expect the result for CDS 1 2025?
The result of the written exam is expected to be declared in March or April 2025, based on past trends.

6. Is the exam date the same for all academies under CDS 1 2025?
Yes, the written examination for IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA is conducted on the same date across all centers in India.

7. Can the CDS 1 2025 exam date be postponed?
While unlikely, any changes in the exam schedule will be officially announced by UPSC. Candidates should regularly check updates for any revisions.

8. How can I stay updated about any changes to the CDS 1 2025 exam date?
Stay informed through official UPSC announcements and ensure you check updates on your registered email and mobile number.

9. Will there be a separate exam date for the SSB interview?
Yes, the SSB interview dates are announced separately after the written exam results. The process usually begins a few weeks after result declaration.

10. Can I choose the exam date for CDS 1 2025?
No, the CDS exam is conducted on a fixed date decided by UPSC. Candidates must appear on the scheduled day without exception.