Qualification to give CDS Exam

Can you provide me the educational qualification required for applying for Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) in India as I have done MA in English, so can I apply?

[Shaleen]

The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission for recruitment into the Indian Military Academy, officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy and Indian Air Force Academy.

Through it candidates are admitted into the respective Academies after an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB).

CDS Exam Eligibility

Nationality:
• Candidate must be either Indian, or
• A subject of Nepal, or
• A subject of Bhutan, or
• A Tibetan refugee who came over to India with the intention of permanent staying in India before January 1st, 1962, or
• Candidate of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Srilanka, Burma or East African countries of Kenya, The United Republic of Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, Zambia, Zaire and Ethiopia or from Vietnam with the intention of permanently staying in India.

Age Limit:
Indian Military Academy 19-24 years
Air Force Academy 19-23 years
Naval Academy 19-22 years
Officers’ Training Academy 19-25 years

Educational Qualification:
• For IMA and OTA: The aspirants should possess graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized university or institute.

• For INA: The aspirants must have a degree in Engineering.

• For Air Force Academy: The aspirants should have passed 12th standard with Physics and Mathematics and having a degree from a recognized university or bachelor’s degree in engineering / technology.

Physical Standard:
The applicants must be physically fit as per physicals standards for seeking admission to the Combined Defense Services Examination.

The aspirants must fulfill all these eligibility profiles for applying to sit in the examination. The applicants need to read out all these instructions carefully.