The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination twice a year to recruit eligible candidates for prestigious defence academies, including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). The CDS 1 2025 exam is scheduled for April 13, 2025, and candidates must meet all eligibility requirements to qualify.
This article provides a detailed overview of the CDS Eligibility Criteria 2025, covering age limits, educational qualifications, nationality, and marital status.
CDS Eligibility Highlights
| Exam Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | CDS 1 2025 |
| Age Limit | Varies by academy |
| Educational Qualification | Graduation (varies by academy) |
| Marital Status | Unmarried (most cases) |
Eligibility Criteria
1. Nationality
Candidates applying for CDS 1 2025 must meet one of the following criteria:
- Citizen of India
- Subject of Nepal
- Person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, or East African countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania intending to settle permanently in India.
Candidates from non-Indian categories must produce a Certificate of Eligibility issued by the Government of India.
2. Age Limit and Marital Status
Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Age Limit: Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2007.
- Marital Status: Must be unmarried.
Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Age Limit: Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2007.
- Marital Status: Must be unmarried.
Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Age Limit: 20 to 24 years as of January 1, 2026 (born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2006).
- Upper Age Relaxation: Candidates holding a valid Commercial Pilot Licence can apply up to 26 years (born between January 2, 2000, and January 1, 2006).
- Marital Status:
- Below 25 years: Must be unmarried.
- Above 25 years: Married candidates may apply but cannot live with their spouse during training.
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA)
- SSC Men (Non-Technical): Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2001, and January 1, 2007.
- SSC Women (Non-Technical): Unmarried women, issueless widows, and issueless divorcees who have not remarried, born between January 2, 2001, and January 1, 2007.
3. Educational Qualifications
| Academy | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
| IMA & OTA | Degree from a recognized university or equivalent. |
| INA | Degree in engineering from a recognized university or institution. |
| AFA | Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or a Bachelor of Engineering. |
Note: Final-year students may apply but must present proof of graduation at the time of course commencement.
4. Physical Standards
Candidates must meet the prescribed physical fitness standards for their chosen academy. These include height, weight, vision, and other health requirements.
Preparation Tips for CDS Eligibility
- Understand the Criteria Thoroughly: Review all eligibility requirements before applying.
- Gather Documents: Keep academic, identity, and nationality proof ready.
- Track Age Limits: Ensure you meet the specific age bracket for your preferred academy.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the UPSC website for notifications.
FAQs
1. When is the CDS 1 2025 exam scheduled?
The CDS 1 2025 exam is set for April 13, 2025.
2. What is the age limit for the Air Force Academy (AFA)?
The age limit is 20 to 24 years, with an upper relaxation to 26 years for valid Commercial Pilot Licence holders.
3. Can married candidates apply for CDS?
Married candidates below 25 years cannot apply, but those above 25 can apply for AFA, provided they do not live with their spouse during training.
4. What is the educational qualification for OTA?
Candidates must hold a degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
5. Are final-year students eligible for CDS?
Yes, final-year students can apply but must present proof of graduation before course commencement.
6. Is there a nationality requirement for CDS?
Yes, candidates must be Indian citizens or meet other specified nationality criteria.
7. Can female candidates apply for CDS?
Yes, female candidates can apply for OTA under specific conditions.
8. What documents are required for the application?
Essential documents include proof of age, educational certificates, and nationality verification.
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