The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification of UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025, inviting eligible candidates to apply for 453 vacancies under the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS II). This is a golden opportunity for candidates who aim to serve the nation through the Indian Army, Navy or Air Force. The CDS examination is conducted twice a year and is one of the most prestigious defence recruitment processes in India.
This is your chance to join this prestigious defence force. The last date to apply online is 17 June 2025, and the exam is likely to be held on 14 September 2025.
Overview of UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025
The UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025 aims to fill vacancies in the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). This article provides a complete understanding of the UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025, including essential dates, qualifications, application procedures and frequently asked questions to help candidates prepare and apply effectively.
Key Highlights
- Conducting Body: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Exam Name: Combined Defence Services Examination II (CDS II)
- Total Vacancies: 453
- Mode of Application: Online
- Official Website: https://upsconline.nic.in/
Important Dates
| Main Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | May 28, 2025 |
| Official Notification | Download PDF |
| Application Start Date | May 28, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 17, 2025 |
| Exam Date | September 14, 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | August 2025 (To be Announce) |
| Result Declaration | October/November 2025 (To be Announce) |
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS 2025
Nationality
- A candidate must be a citizen of India or a subject of Bhutan/Nepal
Age Limit
| Course | Age Limit | Marital Status |
|---|---|---|
| IMA | 19–24 years (Born 02/07/2002–01/07/2007) | Unmarried |
| INA | 19–24 years (Born 02/07/2002–01/07/2007) | Unmarried |
| AFA | 20–24 years (Born 02/07/2002–01/07/2006) | Unmarried (Below 25) |
| OTA (Men) | 19–25 years (Born 02/07/2001–01/07/2007) | Unmarried |
| OTA (Women) | 19–25 years (Born 02/07/2001–01/07/2007) | Unmarried/Widow/Divorcee |
Educational Qualification
- IMA & OTA: Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university
- INA: B.E./B.Tech (Engineering degree)
- AFA: Bachelor’s degree with Physics & Maths at 10+2 level or B.E./B.Tech
Marital Status
- Only unmarried candidates are eligible for IMA, INA, and AFA.
UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025 Vacancy Details
| Academy | Vacancies |
| IMA | 100 |
| INA | 26 |
| AFA | 32 |
| OTA (Men) | 276 |
| OTA (Women) | 19 |
UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025 Application Process
Steps to Apply Online
- Visit the official UPSC website: https://upsconline.nic.in/
- Register & fill the CDS Application Form
- Upload documents (Aadhaar recommended)
- Pay the fee (if applicable)
- Submit the form and download the confirmation
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
| General/OBC | ₹200 |
| SC/ST/Female | Exempted |
Payment Mode: Online (Debit/Credit Card/UPI/Net Banking)
CDS II 2025 Selection Process
The selection process consists of:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview/Personality Test
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Exam Pattern
For IMA, INA, AFA:
| Subject | Duration | Marks |
| English | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 Hours | 100 |
| Elementary Mathematics | 2 Hours | 100 |
For OTA (Men & Women):
| Subject | Duration | Marks |
| English | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 Hours | 100 |
CDS 2025 Syllabus
English
- Synonyms/Antonyms, Sentence Improvement, Comprehension
General Knowledge
- Current Affairs, History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Defence
Mathematics
- Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Trigonometry, Statistics
UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025 Admit Card
Candidates can download the admit card from the UPSC website by entering their registration ID/roll number and date of birth. Keep a printout for the exam day.
Result and Merit List
The result is released in PDF format on the official UPSC website. Candidates qualifying the written test will be called for the SSB Interview. Final selection is based on merit and medical fitness.
CDS 2025 Training Academies
- IMA: Dehradun
- INA: Ezhimala
- AFA: Hyderabad
- OTA: Chennai
Training duration ranges from 49 to 74 weeks depending on the academy.
Benefits of Joining Defence through CDS
- Job Security
- Prestigious Uniformed Service
- Excellent Pay and Perks
- Opportunities for Adventure and Travel
- Leadership Development
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FAQs:
1. When will the UPSC CDS II 2025 notification be released?
It was released on May 28, 2025.
2. What is the last date to apply for CDS 2025?
The last date to apply online is June 17, 2025.
3. What is the age limit for UPSC CDS 2025?
The age limit varies from 20 to 25 years depending on the academy.
4. Can female candidates apply for CDS?
Yes, women can apply for OTA.
5.What is the official website to apply for UPSC CDS 2025?
Visit upsconline.nic.in for the application.
Conclusion
The UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025 presents a life-changing opportunity for young aspirants who dream of serving the nation through the defence forces. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and prepare diligently for the exam to increase your chances of selection. Stay updated by regularly checking the official website for any changes or announcements.