UPSC CDS I Examination 2025: The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is one of India’s most respected competitive exams, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It offers an excellent opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. The UPSC CDS I Examination 2025 will be held on April 13, 2025, with 457 vacancies across several prestigious academies. In this article, we will provide detailed information on how to apply, eligibility requirements, exam pattern, preparation tips, and more.
Overview of UPSC CDS I Examination 2025
The UPSC CDS I 2025 is a key exam for those seeking to enter the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). This biannual exam evaluates candidates based on their knowledge, aptitude, and physical fitness. The UPSC CDS I 2025 Notification was released on December 11, 2024, with applications open until December 31, 2024.
Key Dates for UPSC CDS I 2025
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | December 11, 2024 |
| Application Start Date | December 11, 2024 |
| Application Last Date | December 31, 2024 |
| Exam Date | April 13, 2025 |
| Result Declaration | To Be Announced |
UPSC CDS Exam Pattern
The UPSC CDS I Examination consists of different papers depending on the academy you are applying to. Below is the detailed exam pattern for candidates applying to IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.
For IMA, INA, AFA Candidates:
| Subject | Duration | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English | 2 hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 hours | 100 |
| Elementary Mathematics | 2 hours | 100 |
For OTA Candidates:
| Subject | Duration | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English | 2 hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 hours | 100 |
Preparation Tips for UPSC CDS I Examination
Achieving success in the UPSC CDS I Exam requires a well-structured preparation approach. Here are some tips to help you:
- Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the official syllabus for each subject and exam level. It is crucial to cover all topics systematically.
- Create a Study Plan: Plan your study schedule according to your strengths and weaknesses. Dedicate enough time to both theoretical and practical subjects.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Solve past year’s question papers to understand the exam pattern and improve your time management skills.
- Take Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to assess your progress. It helps identify areas that need more focus and boosts confidence.
- Stay Updated on Current Affairs: General knowledge sections focus on current events. Stay informed by reading newspapers and magazines.
- Seek Expert Guidance: If needed, join coaching classes or online study groups to gain insights and motivation.
UPSC CDS Application Fee
The application fee for the UPSC CDS I 2025 is as follows:
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC | ₹200 |
| SC / ST / Female Candidates | ₹0 (Exempted) |
Payment can be made through Net Banking, Debit/Credit Cards, or Challan.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS I 2025
Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply for the UPSC CDS I Examination:
Nationality:
- Indian citizens
- Subjects of Nepal/Bhutan
- Tibetan refugees who arrived in India before January 1, 1962
Age Limit:
| Academy | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| IMA (Indian Military Academy) | 18 to 24 years |
| INA (Indian Naval Academy) | 18 to 22 years |
| AFA (Air Force Academy) | 20 to 24 years |
| OTA (Officers Training Academy) | 18 to 25 years |
Educational Qualifications:
| Academy | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| IMA & AFA | A degree from a recognized university or equivalent |
| INA | Engineering degree from a recognized university |
| OTA | A degree from a recognized university |
Marital Status:
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible to apply.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS I 2025
To apply for the UPSC CDS I Examination 2025, follow these steps:
- Visit the UPSC official website and register using your email ID.
- Fill in the application form with the necessary personal and educational details.
- Upload the required documents, including your photograph, signature, and proof of identity.
- Pay the application fee using the available payment methods.
- Submit the application form and take a printout for future reference.
| Application Process | Step-by-Step Details |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Register on the UPSC official website |
| Step 2 | Fill out the online application form |
| Step 3 | Upload scanned documents |
| Step 4 | Pay the application fee |
| Step 5 | Submit and print the application form |
Conclusion
The UPSC CDS I Examination 2025 is a great opportunity for aspiring candidates to join the Indian Armed Forces and serve the nation. With 457 vacancies available, both male and female candidates can apply to prestigious institutions like IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. By preparing diligently and following the guidelines, you can increase your chances of success in this competitive exam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the UPSC CDS I Examination 2025?
The UPSC CDS I Examination 2025 is a competitive exam conducted by UPSC for recruitment into various defense services like IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.
2. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS I 2025?
The last date to apply for the UPSC CDS I 2025 is December 31, 2024.
3. When will the admit card for UPSC CDS I 2025 be released?
The admit card will be released approximately two weeks before the exam date.
