UPSC CDS Examination 2025 – The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I) 2025 for recruitment to 457 vacancies. Interested candidates can apply online before 31st December 2024. Here’s all you need to know about the exam, including eligibility, important dates, and application steps.
Table of Contents
UPSC CDS Examination 2025 Overview
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2025 |
|---|---|
| Conducted by | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Total Posts | 457 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Last Date to Apply | 31st December 2024 |
| Exam Date | 13th April 2025 |
Training Institute-wise Vacancy Details
- Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun: 100 posts
- Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala: 32 posts
- Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad: 32 posts
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (SSC Men): 275 posts
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (SSC Women): 18 posts
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality
Candidates must be unmarried and fulfill one of the following:
- Citizen of India
- Subject of Nepal
- Person of Indian origin who has migrated from certain countries (e.g., Pakistan, Sri Lanka, etc.) with the intention of settling permanently in India. (Refer to the official notification for detailed criteria.)
Age Limits, Gender, and Marital Status
| Academy | Age Limit | Gender/Marital Status |
| IMA | Born between 2nd January 2002 and 1st January 2007 | Unmarried Male |
| INA | Born between 2nd January 2002 and 1st January 2007 | Unmarried Male |
| AFA | 20-24 years as of 1st January 2026 (relaxable to 26 years for DGCA CPL holders) | Unmarried Male |
| OTA (SSC Men) | Born between 2nd January 2001 and 1st January 2007 | Unmarried Male |
| OTA (SSC Women) | Born between 2nd January 2001 and 1st January 2007 | Unmarried Women, widows, divorcees (issueless) |
Educational Qualifications
| Academy | Required Qualification |
| IMA and OTA | Degree from a recognized university or equivalent |
| INA | Engineering degree from a recognized university/institution |
| AFA | Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or B.E. |
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
| General/Others | Rs. 200/- |
| Female/SC/ST | Exempted |
Payment Methods:
- SBI Branch cash deposit
- Net Banking
- Credit/Debit Cards
How to Apply for UPSC CDS I Recruitment?
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Visit the UPSC Recruitment Portal: Go to the official website.
- Click on the “Online Application Form”: Find the relevant link under the important web links section.
- Fill in Personal and Educational Details: Provide accurate information.
- Upload Required Documents: Ensure all necessary files are attached.
- Pay the Application Fee: Use your preferred mode of payment.
- Submit and Print: Review your form and take a printout for future reference.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Application Start Date | 11th December 2024 |
| Application End Date | 31st December 2024 |
| Admit Card Release | To be updated |
| Written Exam Date | 13th April 2025 |
Important Links
| Link | URL |
| Online Application Form | Click Here |
| Advertisement Details | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
FAQs on UPSC CDS Recruitment 2025
1. What is the starting date to apply?
The application process begins on 11th December 2024.
2. What is the last date to apply?
Candidates can apply until 31st December 2024.
3. How many posts are available?
A total of 457 posts are available across various training academies.