UPSC CDS 2 2025 Notification is officially out for 453 posts. Candidates can download UPSC CDS 2 2025 Notification PDF and apply online before 20 June 2025.
Nigam Sharma18 Jun, 2025
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UPSC CDS 2 2025 Notificationhas officially been released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on 28 May 2025. The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is conducted twice a year to recruit officers into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).
A direct link to apply for CDS 2 2025 is provided here for convenience. The CDS 2 2025 Notification PDF has been released and provided below. The application form will remain available from May 28 to June 20, 2025. The CDS 2 2025 exam is set to take place on September 14, 2025. As per the exam pattern, the total marks for IMA, INA, and AFA are 300, while for OTA, it is 200. Aspirants should focus on CDS Previous Year Question Papers , comprehensive study materials, and mock tests. Interested candidates must read on to get detailed information on the CDS 2 exam, including syllabus, important dates, eligibility criteria, vacancies, exam pattern, selection process, and more.
What is the UPSC CDS 2025 Exam?
The CDS (Combined Defence Services) 2025 Exam is a national-level entrance examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for recruiting eligible candidates into prestigious defence academies, including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). The CDS exam is conducted twice a year, known as CDS 1 and CDS 2, offering ample opportunities for candidates to secure their place in the armed forces. The CDS 2025 exam comprises three written papers: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Each paper is 2 hours long and carries a maximum of 100 marks. For OTA aspirants, the Elementary Mathematics paper is excluded. Candidates who successfully clear the written exam are invited to the SSB (Service Selection Board) Interview. This two-stage selection process assesses a candidate's personality, intelligence, leadership qualities, and overall suitability for a career in the armed forces. The final merit list is prepared based on the combined scores of the written exam and the SSB Interview.
UPSC CDS 2 2025 Overview
The CDS 2 2025 exam is one of the most prestigious defence recruitment tests conducted in India. It will be held on 14th September 2025 and will follow a strict two-stage selection process: a written test and an SSB Interview. Conducted by UPSC, the UPSC CDS 2 exam includes a written test and SSB interview. Candidates can refer to the table below for a quick overview of the CDS 2025 Exam.
UPSC CDS 2025 Overview
Organization
Union Public Service Commission
Exam Name
Combined Defence Service Examination 2025
Frequency of CDS Exam
Biannual
Mode of Application
Online
Language of Written Exam
Bilingual
Mode of Examination
Offline
CDS Application Fees
INR 200
Type of Questions
Multiple-choice questions
Eligibility
20 to 24 years
Unmarried Males & Females
Passed Graduation or appearing for final year of Graduation
CDS Exam Duration
2 hours (each paper)
Marking Scheme
1/3 for each incorrect answer
Vacancy
453 across IMA, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and OTA
Job Location
All Over India
Official Website
upsc.gov.in
UPSC CDS 2 2025 Exam Dates
The CDS 2 Notification 2025 has been officially released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on 28th May 2025. Candidates must be aware of all important dates related to the CDS 2 2025 exam. Mark your calendars so you don’t miss any deadlines.
UPSC CDS 2 2025 Exam Dates
CDS 2025 Events
CDS 1 2025
CDS 2 2025
CDS 2025 Notification
11 Dec 2024
28 May 2025
CDS 2025 Application Form
11 Dec 2024
28 May 2025
Last date to apply for CDS 2025
31 Dec 2024
20 Jun 2025
CDS 2025 Application Form Correction
01 Jan to 07 Jan 2025
Will be Updated
CDS 2025 Application Withdrawal
NA
NA
CDS 2025 Admit Card
Will be Updated
Aug-September 2025 (Expected)
CDS Exam Date 2025
13 Apr 2025
14 Sep 2025
UPSC CDS 2 2025 Notification PDF
The CDS 2 2025 Notification PDF contains comprehensive details about the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It includes crucial information such as exam dates, eligibility criteria, application process, syllabus, exam pattern, and the total number of vacancies available for recruitment. Aspiring candidates can rely on the notification as a complete guide to understanding the requirements and preparation strategies for the exam.
UPSC CDS 2 2025 Notification PDF has been released by the UPSC in both English and Hindi mediums, so that it can accommodate every candidate. To assist candidates, we have also provided direct links below to download the CDS 2025 Notification PDF.
CDS 2 Vacancy 2025
The UPSC has announced a total of 453 vacancies for various defence academies in CDS 2 2025. These vacancies are provisional and can change depending on organisational requirements.
CDS 2 Vacancy 2025
Course
Vacancies
Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun (161st DE Course)
100
Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala (Executive & Hydro)
26
Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad (220 F(P) Course)
32
Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – Men (124th SSC NT)
276
Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – Women (124th SSC NT)
19
Total
453
CDS 2 2025 Apply Online Link
The UPSC CDS 2 2025 Apply Online Link is now available for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces through the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS-II). The application process began on 28th May 2025 and will remain open until 20th June 2025. Interested candidates can apply online through the official UPSC website. Use the link below to submit your application for the CDS 2 2025 Exam.
CDS 2 2025 Application Form Fee
Candidates can check the UPSC CDS 2 2025 Exam Application Fees here -
The CDS 2 2025 Exam Application fee is 200 / for all categories except SC/ST/Females.
Candidates can pay the application fee of UPSC CDS 2 2025 in online/offline mode (Net Banking, Mastercard/Debit Card, or cash deposit in any branch of SBI Bank.)
To complete the application process successfully, it is essential to ensure prompt fee payment.
Steps to fill out the CDS 2 2025 Application Form
It is important to know the steps to fill out the UPSC CDS 2025 Exam application form.
Step 1: Online Registration
Visit the official website of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and move to the CDS 2025 Exam section.
Click on the application form link and proceed to register.
Fill in the required details, such as your name, date of birth, email address, and contact number.
Create a unique username and password for future logins.
Step 2: Application Form Filling
Log in to your account using the provided credentials.
Fill in personal details, including your name, gender, nationality, and address.
Provide educational qualifications, such as degrees earned, subjects studied, and institutions attended.
Select your preferred academy and branch.
Carefully review the entered information to ensure accuracy.
Step 3: Uploading Documents
Upload scanned copies of your recent passport-sized photograph and signature as per the specified format and size.
Attach any other required documents, such as educational certificates and identity proof, if specified.
Step 4: Payment of Application Fee
Pay the application fee using the available online payment options (credit card, debit card, net banking).
The fee amount may vary based on your category (general, OBC, SC/ST, or female candidates).
Step 5: Application Form Submission
Review all the entered details and uploaded documents to ensure they are correct and complete.
Click on the "Submit" button to finalise the submission of your application form.
Step 6: Print the Application Form
After successful submission, take a printout of the completed application form.
Keep a copy for your reference and future correspondence.
CDS 2 2025 Admit Card
The UPSC CDS 2 2025 Admit Card will be released a few days before the exam, which is scheduled to be conducted on 14th September 2025 . The admit card will be available on the official UPSC website and will include important details such as the candidate's name, roll number, exam center, timings, and date of birth. Candidates can download their CDS 2 2025 Admit Card by logging in with their Registration ID and Roll Number. Use the link below to download your admit card:
Steps to Download UPSC CDS 2025 Admit Card
Follow these steps to download the CDS 2 2025 Admit Card:
Visit the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) official website at www.upsc.gov.in.
Move to the "Examinations" tab on the UPSC homepage.
Select "Active Examinations" from the drop-down menu to see ongoing exams.
Locate the CDS exam in the list and click on the relevant link.
On the CDS examination page, find and click on the "Admit Card" or "E-Admit Card" link.
Enter your registration number/roll number, date of birth, and other required details on the new page.
Click "Submit" or "Download Admit Card" after entering the necessary information.
UPSC CDS 2 2025 Eligibility
The candidates must meet the eligibility criteria of the UPSC CDS 2025 Exam. It is crucial to ensure the eligibility criteria for the candidate before submitting the application form. Here, you can check the CDS exam eligibility.
Eligibility Criteria
Details
CDS 2025 Nationality
Citizen of India Subject of Nepal/Bhutan Tibetan refugee migrated to India before January 01, 1962, with the intention of permanent settlement Individuals of Indian origin migrated from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Burma, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Malawi, Zambia, Zaire & Vietnam for permanent settlement in India
CDS 2025 Exam Education Qualification
For I.M.A. and Officers’ Training Academy: Graduation degree (any subject) from a recognized University or equivalent
For Indian Naval Academy: Graduation in Engineering from a recognized University/Institution
For Air Force Academy: Bachelor's degree from a recognized University (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering
CDS 2025 Age Limit
20 to 24 years. The detailed age limit is mentioned in the official notification PDF
CDS 2025 Marital Status & Sex
For Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy: Only unmarried males are eligible
For Indian Air Force Academy: Both married and unmarried males can apply, but marriage during training is not permitted
For Officer Training Academy: Unmarried males & females can apply
Age & Marital Status
Academy
Age Limit
Marital Status
IMA
2 July 2002 – 1 July 2007
Unmarried Male
INA
2 July 2002 – 1 July 2007
Unmarried Male
AFA
2 July 2002 – 1 July 2006 (CPL holders: up to 2 July 2000)
Unmarried (under 25)
OTA (Men)
2 July 2001 – 1 July 2007
Unmarried Male
OTA (Women)
2 July 2001 – 1 July 2007
Unmarried Female, widow/divorcee without children
CDS 2 2025 Selection Process
The selection process for CDS 2025 involves a series of stages designed to assess the candidates' aptitude, intelligence, and physical fitness. The selection process is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and consists of the following stages:
Written Examination: Candidates must first qualify in the written examination, which comprises multiple-choice questions and tests their knowledge in subjects such as English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. The written exam is held separately for each academy.
Interview/Personality Test: Candidates who pass the written examination are shortlisted for the interview/personality test conducted by the Services Selection Board ( SSB ). This stage evaluates candidates' officer-like qualities, leadership skills, and suitability for a career in the defence forces. The interview/personality test includes various tasks, group discussions, and personal interviews.
Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates must submit their original documents for verification, including educational certificates, age proof, and other relevant documents.
Medical Examination: Candidates who clear the interview/personality test undergo a thorough medical examination conducted by a Military Hospital to assess their medical fitness. The medical examination ensures that candidates meet military service's physical and medical standards.
Final Merit List: The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the written examination, interview/personality test, and medical examination. A merit list is prepared, and candidates are allotted seats in the respective academies based on their ranks and preferences.
CDS 2 2025 Exam Pattern
These tables provide a clear and organised format of the UPSC CDS 2 2025 Exam Pattern, including the subjects, duration, and maximum marks for each stage.
For Admission to Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy:
Subject
Duration
Maximum Marks
English
2 Hours
100
General Knowledge
2 Hours
100
Mathematics
2 Hours
100
SSB Test/Interview
5 Days
300
2. For Admission to the Officers’ Training Academy:
Subject
Duration
Maximum Marks
English
2 Hours
100
General Knowledge
2 Hours
100
SSB Test/Interview
5 Days
300
CDS 2025 SSB Interview
CDS 2025 SSB Interview involves 2 stages:
Stage
Process
1
Officer Intelligence Rating
Picture Perception and Description Test
2
Psychology Test
Interview
Group Testing Officer Task
Conference
CDS 2025 Salary
The salary structure for candidates selected through the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination varies depending on their rank and the branch they are commissioned into. In addition to the basic pay, CDS officers receive various allowances and benefits, including Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and other amenities such as medical facilities, accommodation, and pension.
Rank
Level
Pay Scale
Lieutenant
10
Rs 56,100 - 1,77,500
Captain
10B
Rs 61,300 - 1,93,900
Major
11
Rs 69,400 - 2,07,200
Lieutenant Colonel
12A
Rs 1,21,200 - 2,12,400
Colonel
13
Rs 1,30,600 - 2,15,900
Brigadier
13A
Rs 1,39,600 - 2,17,600
Major General
14
Rs 1,44,200 - 2,18,200
Lieutenant General HAG Scale
15
Rs 1,82,200 - 2,24,100
HAG+ Scale
16
Rs 2,05,400 - 2,24,400
VCOAS/Army CDR/Lieutenant General (NFSG)
17
Rs 2,25,000 (fixed)
COAS
18
Rs 2,50,000 (fixed)
CDS 2025 Exam Centers
UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) specifies the locations for the CDS 2025 Exam in the official CDS 2025 Notification. The CDS 2 2025 Examination is planned to take place in various cities through an offline mode. As a suggestion, candidates are encouraged to reach their respective exam centers at least one day before the scheduled date and acquaint themselves with the route to prevent any last-minute inconveniences. For detailed information on the CDS Exam Centers 2025, please refer to the following table.
Exam Centers
Agartala
Ghaziabad
Panaji – Goa
Agra
Gorakhpur
Patna
Ajmer
Gurgaon
Port Blair
Ahmedabad
Prayagraj – Allahabad
Gwalior
Aizawl
Hyderabad
Puducherry
Aligarh
Imphal
Pune
Almora – Uttarakhand
Indore
Raipur
Anantapur – Andhra Pradesh
Itanagar
Rajkot
Aurangabad
Jabalpur
Ranchi
Bengaluru
Jaipur
Sambalpur
Bareilly
Jammu
Shillong
Bhopal
Jodhpur
Shimla
Bilaspur
Jorhat
Siliguri
Chandigarh
Kochi
Srinagar
Chennai
Kohima
Srinagar – Uttarakhand
Coimbatore
Kolkata
Thane
Cuttack
Kozhikode – Calicut
Thiruvananthapuram
Dehradun
Leh
Tiruchirapalli
Delhi
Lucknow
Tirupati
Dharwad
Ludhiana
Udaipur
Dispur
Madurai
Varanasi
Faridabad
Mumbai
Vellore
Gangtok
Mysore
Vijayawada
Gaya
Nagpur
Visakhapatnam
Gautam Buddh Nagar
Navi Mumbai
Warangal
UPSC CDS 2 Physical Standards 2025
Candidates planning to take the CDS exam must review the CDS physical standards before applying to ensure eligibility for the exam.
CDS 2025 Male Height and Weight
Check Required CDS 2025 height and weight for male candidates below:-
Height/Age
18 years
20 years
22 years
24 years
152
44
46
47
48
155
46
48
49
50
157
47
49
50
51
160
48
50
51
52
162
50
52
51
54
165
52
53
55
56
168
53
55
57
58
170
55
57
58
59
173
57
59
60
61
175
59
61
62
62
178
61
62
63
64
180
63
64
65
66
183
65
67
67
68
185
67
69
70
71
188
70
71
72
74
190
72
73
74
76
193
74
76
77
78
195
77
78
79
81
CDS 2025 Female Height and Weight
Check Required CDS 2025 height and weight for female candidates below:-
Candidates appearing for CDS 2025 must be aware of visual standards to verify eligibility. The visual standards are categorized for IMA & OTA, Naval Candidates, and Air Force.
Candidates regularly wearing spectacles are not eligible for the Indian Air Force. The visual standards for the Air Force are as follows:
Vision Parameter
Standards
Hypermetropia
+2.0 d Sph
Color Vision
CP-1
Manifest Myopia
Nil
Retinoscopic Myopia
0.5 in any meridian
Astigmatism
+0.75 D Cyl (with +2.0 D Max)
CDS 2025 Exam Expected Cut off
These are the expected cut-off scores for the written and final exams for the various academies in the CDS 2025 examination. Please note that these are approximate figures, and the actual cut-off scores may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's advisable to refer to the official UPSC website.
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