CDS Selection Process 2025: Written Exam, SSB, and Medical Test

Dreaming of a career in the Indian Armed Forces? The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is your gateway to serving the nation with honor. Conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the CDS exam selects candidates for esteemed institutions like the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Let’s explore the CDS Selection Process 2025, breaking down each stage to guide your preparation.

Key Highlights

• Organization Name: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
• Exam Name: Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination
• Frequency: Twice a year
• Selection Stages: Written Examination, SSB Interview, Medical Examination
• Courses Offered: IMA, INA, AFA, OTA
• Eligibility: Unmarried graduates
• Application Mode: Online
• Exam Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)
• Official Website: upsc.gov.in

Written Examination 📝

The first hurdle in the CDS selection process is the Written Examination. This test evaluates your proficiency in subjects like English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.

Exam Pattern

• For IMA, INA, and AFA:
  • Subjects: English, General Knowledge, Mathematics
  • Duration: 2 hours per subject
  • Maximum Marks: 100 per subject
• For OTA:
  • Subjects: English, General Knowledge
  • Duration: 2 hours per subject
  • Maximum Marks: 100 per subject

Each paper comprises multiple-choice questions. Remember, there’s a penalty for wrong answers, so answer thoughtfully.

Service Selection Board (SSB) Interview 🎤

Clearing the written exam paves the way to the SSB Interview, a comprehensive assessment spanning five days. This stage gauges your psychological aptitude, leadership qualities, and physical fitness.

Interview Stages

1. Stage I:
   • Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Tests: Assess logical and analytical abilities.
   • Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT): Evaluate perception and narrative skills.
2. Stage II:
   • Psychological Tests: Written assessments to analyze personality traits.
   • Group Testing Officer Tasks (GTO Tasks): Group activities to observe teamwork and leadership.
   • Personal Interview: One-on-one interaction to discuss personal history and aspirations.
   • Conference: Final deliberation by assessors to decide suitability.

Medical Examination 🏥

Success in the SSB Interview leads to the Medical Examination. Conducted by a designated board of service medical officers, this examination ensures candidates meet the medical standards required for military service.

Key Medical Criteria

• Vision Standards: Specific requirements for each branch.
• Hearing Ability: Normal hearing is essential.
• Physical Fitness: No chronic ailments or physical deformities.
• Mental Health: Candidates must be free from psychological disorders.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can aid in meeting these standards.

Final Merit List 📜

After conquering the previous stages, UPSC compiles a Final Merit List. This list considers:

• Written Examination Scores
• SSB Interview Performance

It’s crucial to excel in both areas, as the final selection depends on combined merit and candidate preferences.

Training Academies 🏫

Selected candidates receive training at their chosen academies:

• IMA: Prepares for the Indian Army.
• INA: Trains for the Indian Navy.
• AFA: Focuses on the Air Force.
• OTA: Offers training for the Army’s short service commission.

Each academy imparts rigorous training to mold future military leaders.

Embarking on the CDS journey demands dedication, resilience, and a passion for service. With a clear understanding of the selection process, you’re better equipped to navigate each stage successfully. Best of luck on your path to joining the esteemed ranks of the Indian Armed Forces!