The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE) is an entrance exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) of India. It is used to recruit officers into the Indian Armed Forces, including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officers Training Academy (OTA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Indian Air Force Academy (AFA). Here are the key details about the CDSE:
| Academy | Gender | Age Limits | Marital Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | Male | 19-24 | Unmarried |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | Male | 19-24 | Unmarried |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | Male | 20-24 |
Unmarried Candidates holding a valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India) are relaxable up to 26 years. |
|
Officers Training Academy (OTA)
(SSC Course for Men) |
Male | 19-25 | Unmarried |
|
Officers Training Academy (OTA)
(SSC Women Non-Technical Course) |
Female | 19-25 |
Unmarried Including widows and divorcees who have not remarried. |
A degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
A degree in engineering from a recognized university or equivalent.
A degree from a recognized university (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering.
| Subject | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 hours |
| Mathematics | 100 | 2 hours |
| Subject | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 hours |
The CDSE is conducted twice a year, generally in February and November.
Announced on the official UPSC website.
