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UPSC CDS Exam Pattern 2025 outlines papers, subjects, marks, questions, and exam duration. Check out the complete CDS 1 & CDS 2 Exam Pattern here
The UPSC CDS Exam Pattern 2025 outlines the structure and subjects of the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam. This national-level exam, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is the gateway to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). Understanding the exam pattern helps candidates prepare effectively and prioritize key areas.
The UPSC CDS Exam Pattern 2025 consists of a written examination followed by the SSB Interview. The written exam tests candidates’ proficiency in English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics (for IMA, INA, and AFA), with varying total marks based on the academy applied for. Below is a concise table of key details.
| UPSC CDS Exam Pattern 2025 Highlights | |
| Feature | Details |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (Pen and Paper-based) |
| Question Type | Objective (MCQs) |
| Medium | Bilingual (English and Hindi), except the English paper |
| Papers for IMA/INA/AFA | English, General Knowledge, Mathematics |
| Papers for OTA | English, General Knowledge |
| Total Marks (Written Exam) | 300 (IMA/INA/AFA); 200 (OTA) |
| Duration per Paper | 2 Hours |
| Negative Marking | 1/3rd of marks deducted for incorrect answers |
| SSB Interview Marks | 300 (IMA/INA/AFA); 200 (OTA) |
Get the CDS Syllabus 2025 PDF Here
The UPSC CDS Exam 2025 is divided into two categories: Category A and Category B. Each category has a specific exam structure, as detailed below.
Category A is for admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA).
| Subject | Duration | Maximum Marks |
| English | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 Hours | 100 |
| Mathematics | 2 Hours | 100 |
| Total | – | 300 |
Category B is for admission to the Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).
| Subject | Duration | Maximum Marks |
| English | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 Hours | 100 |
| Total | – | 200 |
The UPSC CDS 2025 Marking Scheme is set by the authorities to award and deduct marks accordingly. Candidates are rewarded for correct answers, while negative marking applies for incorrect responses, as per the official pattern. Understanding the marking scheme helps candidates strategize their approach to maximize scores.
| Marking Scheme for Written Exam | |||
| Subject | Marks per Correct Answer | Negative Marking per Incorrect Answer | Total Marks |
| English | 1 | -0.33 | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 1 | -0.33 | 100 |
| Mathematics | 1 | -0.33 | 100 |
To ensure smooth execution during the exam, candidates must follow the important instructions. The instructions will be mentioned on the CDS Admit Card. Candidates are advised to go through them carefully to avoid any last-minute hassle. Here are some key instructions for the CDS Exam 2025:
| Item | Details |
| Details to Fill | Center, subject, CDS 2025 booklet series (A, B, C, or D), subject code, and exam roll number. |
| Encoding | Encode booklet series, subject code, and roll number in the designated circles on the OMR sheet. |
| Errors to Avoid | Omissions, discrepancies, or errors in encoding details may lead to rejection of the answer sheet. |
| Action | Details |
| Writing Unnecessary Details | Do not write your name or any extra information on the answer sheet or test booklet. |
| Damaging the Answer Sheet | Avoid folding, tearing, or making extraneous markings on the OMR sheet. |
| Writing on the Reverse Side | Refrain from writing anything on the reverse side of the answer sheet. |
After clearing the written exam, candidates appear for the SSB Interview, which carries a maximum of 300 marks (IMA, INA, AFA) and 200 marks (OTA). The interview assesses intelligence, personality, and leadership qualities. The interview will be conducted in two stages:
Stage I: Stage I includes Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception Description Test (PP&DT)
Stage II: Candidates who will qualify Stage I, will move to Stage II. It comprises Interviews, Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests, and Conferences.
Ready to boost your UPSC CDS 2025 preparation? Join PW’s UPSC CDS online course today!
| UPSC CDS Exam Related Articles | |
| UPSC CDS Exam Analysis 2024 | UPSC CDS Preparation Strategy |
| UPSC CDS Exam Pattern | UPSC CDS Syllabus |
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