UPSC CDS II 2025 Exam: Notification & Application Details
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Defence Service (CDS) Examination twice a year to recruit candidates for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).
The notification for UPSC CDS II 2025 has been released, and the online application process has commenced. Candidates interested in joining the defence services through this recruitment can find the essential details below.
For comprehensive study materials and preparation guides for UPSC exams like CDS, visit PSC Notes.
Key Dates
Here are the important dates regarding the UPSC CDS II 2025 examination:
- Application Start Date: May 28, 2025
- Last Date for Online Application: June 20, 2025
- Last Date for Fee Payment: June 20, 2025
- Written Examination Date: September 14, 2025
- Admit Card Release: September 2025
- Written Result Declaration: To be Notified Later
Application Fee
The application fee structure for the UPSC CDS II 2025 exam is as follows:
- General, EWS, OBC Candidates: ₹200
- SC, ST, and Female Candidates: ₹0
- Payment Mode: Candidates can pay the examination fee through Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, UPI, or other available online payment methods.
Age Limit
The age eligibility for the UPSC CDS II 2025 exam is calculated as of July 1, 2025.
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 24 Years
Age relaxation rules are applicable as per UPSC regulations for different categories.
To calculate your eligibility based on age, you can use this tool: Age Calculator
Vacancy Details
A total of 453 vacancies have been announced under the UPSC CDS II 2025 recruitment across various academies:
| Post Name | Number of Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | 295 |
| Total | 453 |
Educational Qualification
The required educational qualifications vary for each academy:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA) / Officers Training Academy (OTA): Candidates must hold a Graduation Degree in any stream from a recognized University or equivalent.
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): Candidates must possess an Engineering Degree from a recognized University.
- Air Force Academy (AFA): Candidates need a Graduation Degree with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level OR a Bachelor of Engineering Degree from a recognized University.
For detailed syllabus and exam patterns related to these qualifications, refer to resources available on PSC Notes.
Selection Process
The selection process for the UPSC CDS II 2025 exam typically involves the following stages:
- Written Examination: Candidates first appear for a written test covering various subjects depending on the academy they applied for.
- SSB (Services Selection Board) / AFSB (Air Force Selection Board) Interview: Candidates who clear the written exam are called for a comprehensive interview and personality assessment.
- Medical Examination: Medically fit candidates from the SSB/AFSB stage are considered.
- Final Merit List: A merit list is prepared based on the combined performance in the written exam and SSB/AFSB.
Preparation for the written exam and SSB/AFSB is crucial. You can find previous years’ question papers and interview guidance on PSC Notes.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates must apply online through the official Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) website. The application process involves One Time Registration (OTR) followed by filling out the detailed application form and paying the examination fee
(if applicable). Candidates are advised to read the official notification thoroughly before applying.Important Links
- Apply Online & OTR Registration: https://upsconline.nic.in/
- Download Official Notification: Available on the official UPSC website
upsc.gov.in - Official UPSC Website: https://upsc.gov.in/
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