The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (I) 2025, offering 457 vacancies for aspirants aiming to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). This prestigious exam provides an opportunity for candidates to serve in the Indian Armed Forces.
The notification, officially released on December 11, 2024, is designated as Notification No. 04/2025.CDS-I. The application process started on the same day, with a deadline of December 31, 2024. Candidates will also have the chance to correct errors in their submitted applications during a correction window, which will be open from January 1 to January 7, 2025.
Overview Table: UPSC CDS (I) Exam 2025 Notification
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (I) 2025 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Total Vacancies | 457 |
| Application Start Date | December 11, 2024 |
| Application End Date | December 31, 2024 |
| Exam Date | April 2025 |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
HP High Court Recruitment 2024
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS (I) Exam 2025
Nationality
Applicants must fulfill one of the following conditions:
- Be an Indian citizen.
- Be a subject of Nepal.
- Be a person of Indian origin with valid migration documentation as specified in the notification.
Age Limit
- IMA and INA: Male candidates, unmarried, born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2007.
- AFA: Male candidates aged 20–24 years as of January 1, 2026.
- OTA (Men & Women): Unmarried candidates born between January 2, 2001, and January 1, 2007.
Educational Qualification
- IMA & OTA: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- INA: A degree in engineering from an accredited institution.
- AFA: A bachelor’s degree with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or an equivalent qualification.
Application Fee for UPSC CDS (I) Exam 2025
- General Candidates: ₹200.
- Female and SC/ST Candidates: Exempted.
The fee can be paid online or in cash at designated SBI branches.
Selection Process for UPSC CDS (I) Exam 2025
The selection process consists of three stages:
- Written Examination:
- Objective questions covering English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics (for IMA, INA, and AFA candidates).
- OTA candidates will be tested in English and General Knowledge only.
- SSB Interview:
- A five-day comprehensive assessment of intelligence and personality traits.
- Medical Examination:
- Verification of the candidate’s physical and medical fitness.
Important Dates for UPSC CDS (I) Exam 2025
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | December 11, 2024 |
| Application Start Date | December 11, 2024 |
| Application End Date | December 31, 2024 |
| Application Correction Window | January 1–7, 2025 |
| Exam Date | April 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | Early April 2025 |
How to Apply for UPSC CDS (I) Exam 2025
To successfully apply for the UPSC CDS (I) 2025 Examination, follow these steps:
- Visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in.
- Select the Combined Defence Services (I) 2025 Examination link.
- Complete the One-Time Registration process.
- Log in using your credentials and fill out the application form accurately.
- Upload necessary documents such as a recent photograph, signature, and educational certificates.
- Pay the application fee, if applicable, using online payment methods or authorized cash payment channels.
- Double-check the entered details and submit the form.
- Save and print the application confirmation for future reference.
FAQs
1. What is the educational qualification for the CDS (I) 2025 Exam?
- IMA & OTA: Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- INA: Applicants need a degree in engineering.
- AFA: A bachelor’s degree with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or equivalent is required.
2. Can I correct errors in my application?
Yes, applicants can update their details during the correction window, which will be open from January 1 to January 7, 2025.
Important Links for UPSC CDS (I) Exam 2025
- Official Website: upsc.gov.in
- Detailed Notification: Download Here
- Application Form Link: Apply Online Here
For timely updates, applicants are encouraged to visit the official website regularly.