CDS 2 2025 Notification and Exam Date

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is a prestigious opportunity for aspiring candidates looking to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts this examination, which serves as a gateway for candidates aiming to join various defense academies, including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). The CDS 2 2025 notification has been officially released, providing essential details regarding the application process, eligibility criteria, and examination dates.

Overview of CDS 2 2025

The CDS 2 2025 examination is scheduled to take place on September 14, 2025. The notification was released on May 28, 2025, and the online application process commenced on the same day. Candidates interested in applying for the examination must complete their applications by June 17, 2025. This examination is conducted twice a year, and the upcoming session is crucial for those aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces.

Key Highlights

• Exam Name: Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS 2)
• Conducting Body: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
• Total Vacancies: 453
• Application Dates: May 28, 2025 – June 17, 2025
• Exam Date: September 14, 2025
• Official Website: upsc.gov.in

Important Dates for CDS 2 2025

Understanding the timeline for the CDS 2 2025 is crucial for candidates. Here’s a detailed table of important dates related to the examination:

Eligibility Criteria for CDS 2 2025

To apply for the CDS 2 2025 examination, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include age limits, educational qualifications, and nationality requirements.

Age Limit

• Indian Military Academy (IMA): 19 to 24 years (born between July 2, 2002, and July 1, 2007)
• Indian Naval Academy (INA): 19 to 24 years (born between July 2, 2002, and July 1, 2007)
• Air Force Academy (AFA): 20 to 24 years (born between July 2, 2002, and July 1, 2006)
• Officers Training Academy (OTA): 19 to 25 years (born between July 2, 2001, and July 1, 2007)

Educational Qualifications

• IMA and OTA: Graduation from a recognized university.
• INA: Engineering degree from a recognized institution.
• AFA: Graduation with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or a Bachelor of Engineering.

Nationality

Candidates must be:

• Indian citizens
• Subjects of Nepal or Bhutan
• Tibetan refugees who settled in India before January 1, 1962

Application Process for CDS 2 2025

The application process for the CDS 2 2025 examination is conducted online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help candidates navigate the application process:

1. Visit the Official UPSC Website: Go to upsc.gov.in.
2. Register for One Time Registration (OTR): New candidates must register on the OTR platform.
3. Fill Out the Application Form: After registration, candidates can fill out the CDS application form.
4. Upload Required Documents: Ensure that all necessary documents, including photographs and signatures, are uploaded in the specified format.
5. Pay the Application Fee: The application fee is ₹200 for General and OBC candidates, while SC/ST and female candidates are exempted.
6. Submit the Application: After completing the application form, submit it before the deadline.

Application Fee Structure

Exam Pattern for CDS 2 2025

The CDS 2 2025 examination consists of a written test followed by an interview. The written exam pattern varies slightly based on the academy to which the candidate is applying.

For IMA, INA, and AFA

• Subjects: English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics
• Duration: 2 hours for each subject
• Total Marks: 300 (100 marks for each subject)

For OTA

• Subjects: English, General Knowledge
• Duration: 2 hours for each subject
• Total Marks: 200 (100 marks for each subject)

Marking Scheme

• Each correct answer awards 1 mark.
• There is a negative marking of 1/3 for each incorrect answer.

Syllabus Overview for CDS 2 2025

The syllabus for the CDS 2 2025 examination is extensive and covers various subjects. Here’s a brief overview:

English

• Grammar
• Vocabulary
• Comprehension
• Writing Ability

General Knowledge

• Current Affairs
• History
• Geography
• Science
• Defence-related topics

Elementary Mathematics

• Arithmetic
• Algebra
• Geometry
• Trigonometry
• Statistics

Selection Process for CDS 2 2025

The selection process for the CDS 2 2025 examination consists of several stages:

1. Written Examination: Candidates must clear the written exam to qualify for the next stage.
2. SSB Interview: Candidates who pass the written exam will be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which assesses their intelligence, personality, and leadership qualities.
3. Medical Examination: Candidates must meet the specified medical standards.
4. Document Verification: Verification of documents is conducted to ensure eligibility.
5. Final Merit List: A merit list is prepared based on the candidates’ performance in the written exam and SSB interview.

CDS 2 2025 Salary Structure

The salary structure for officers selected through the CDS examination is attractive and includes various allowances. Here’s a breakdown of the pay scale based on rank:

How to Prepare for CDS 2 2025

Preparing for the CDS 2 2025 examination requires a strategic approach. Here are some effective tips:

• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and exam pattern.
• Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study schedule that covers all subjects.
• Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy.
• Focus on Physical Fitness: Physical fitness is crucial for the SSB interview, so maintain a regular fitness routine.

Conclusion

The CDS 2 2025 examination is a significant opportunity for aspiring candidates to join the Indian Armed Forces. With the right preparation and understanding of the eligibility criteria, application process, and exam pattern, candidates can enhance their chances of success. Stay focused, prepare diligently, and seize this opportunity to serve your nation with pride.

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