Introduction and Conducting Authority –

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination recruits  graduate candidates to the Indian Army, Navy, and Airforce.

The CDS written stage conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (U.P.S.C) and the interview stage is conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB) constituted by the Indian Armed Forces.

Interestingly, it is one of the only recruitment processes of the UPSC wherein the interviewing stage is conducted externally i.e. outside the purview of the UPSC.

​

Depending on eligibility, candidates can gain entry to the following institutions –

Indian Army

Indian Military Academy, Dehradun (Permanent Commission)

Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (Short Service Commission – Men)

Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (Short Service Commission – Non- Technical – Women)

Indian Navy

Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala (Permanent Commission, Executive – General Service)

Indian Airforce

Air Force Academy, Hyderabad (Permanent Commission, Pre Flying Course)

Frequency –

The CDS Exam is conducted biannually (twice every year) usually in the month of February and October.

Eligibility – (Age and Education) 

Structure and Pattern