Combined Defence Services (CDS)
Become a Commissioned Officer after Graduation
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Where it leads
- Lieutenant (Army)
- Sub-Lieutenant (Navy)
- Flying Officer (Air Force)
0 of 14 steps done
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Different academies have different written papers—OTA only requires English and GK, while IMA/INA/AFA require a tough Elementary Mathematics paper as well.
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14 steps to your selection
Your route to selection: 14 steps in 4 stages. Tap a step to read it; log the date when you finish it.
Clear the CDS written examination.
The Services Selection Board 5-day assessment for graduates.
Clearing the strict military medical standards.
Rigorous training at the respective designated academies.
More about this career
About the job, pay where you live, questions people ask, and where this career can take you next.
About the job
What you’d do
- Lead troops in war fighting to meet external aggression
- Manage internal security, including internal threats
- Take part in peacekeeping operations and military assistance to friendly foreign countries
- Give humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and aid to civil authorities
- At sea, work in teams operating radars, sonars, communications and weapons on naval ships
Where you’d work
- Indian Army, after training at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun (Permanent Commission)
- Indian Navy executive branch, after the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala
- Indian Air Force, after pre-flying training at the Air Force Academy, Hyderabad
- Indian Army Short Service Commission, after the Officers' Training Academy, Chennai
Every step in full
The complete text of every step, to read or print. Work through them in the journey above.
Written Exam (UPSC CDS) 4 steps
Analyze and Decode the Syllabus
Thoroughly review the UPSC CDS notification to understand the exam structure, varying by OTA (English, GK) versus IMA/INA/AFA (English, GK, Math).
Real-world task: Skim through the last 3 years of CDS papers and color-code topics based on your current comfort level.
Why it matters: Studying aimlessly without knowing the weightage of topics wastes time; precision preparation is essential for UPSC exams.
Checklist
- Download the exact syllabus directly from the UPSC website
- Identify your target academy (OTA vs others) to confirm required papers
- Collect past 10 years of question papers for trend analysis
- Plan a segmented daily study routine incorporating all subjects simultaneously
Strengthen English Proficiency
Target the English paper (100 marks) as a highly scoring section by polishing advanced grammar, vocabulary, and rapid reading comprehension.
Real-world task: Complete a 120-question CDS English mock test in 2 hours, aiming to accurately score more than 70%.
Why it matters: The English paper is universally required and usually has the highest scoring potential to elevate your aggregate marks above the cutoff.
Checklist
- Master rules of syntax, subject-verb agreement, and parts of speech
- Practice solving sentence arrangements (S1-S6 and PQRS)
- Daily practice for spotting errors and sentence improvement
- Learn and revise synonyms, antonyms, and idioms efficiently
Build Comprehensive General Knowledge
Develop a vast base in static GK (History, Polity, Geography, Science) alongside dynamic current events using standard foundational texts.
Real-world task: Maintain a handwritten journal summarizing monthly defense updates, national indices, and global summits for rapid revision.
Why it matters: The GK paper is notoriously vast and difficult. Clearing its sectional cutoff (20%) is mandatory, and high scores here separate the merit-list toppers.
Checklist
- Read standard NCERTs (Class 9-12) for Science, Geography, and History
- Study Indian Polity comprehensively (features, articles, amendments)
- Follow current affairs, especially defense acquisitions, exercises, and geopolitics
- Read a national newspaper (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) daily
Master Elementary Mathematics (IMA/INA/AFA)
Develop high-speed calculation habits and deep conceptual clarity for Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Mensuration.
Real-world task: Solve 50 geometry and trigonometry previous-year questions within 60 minutes.
Why it matters: If aiming for a permanent commission in the combat arms (via IMA, INA, or AFA), mastering the Math paper is non-negotiable and heavily dictates your rank.
Checklist
- Learn shortcut techniques for arithmetic, percentages, and profit/loss
- Practice complex polynomial algebra and quadratic equations
- Memorize trigonometry identities and heights/distances formulas
- Visualize 2D/3D geometry and solve mensuration volume/area problems
SSB Interview 4 steps
Clear the Day 1 Screening Test
Survive the day-one elimination by performing adequately in the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) and excelling in the Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT).
Real-world task: Record yourself giving a 1-minute sharp summary of a random picture, checking for eye contact, distinct voice, and fluency.
Why it matters: Over half of the reporting candidates are asked to leave on Day 1. It operates strictly as a filter to identify candidates worth full assessment.
Checklist
- Maximize accuracy in both verbal and non-verbal OIR test booklets
- Draft a logical, action-oriented plot recognizing characters and moods quickly for PP&DT
- Deliver a powerful, confident 1-minute narration of your written story
- Contribute logically to the chaotic group discussion to agree on a common group story
Conquer the Psychological Assessment
Navigate a relentless battery of written tests designed to uncover your subconscious personality and Officer Like Qualities (OLQs).
Real-world task: Execute a full mock-psych battery (TAT, WAT, SRT, SD) continuously over ~2.5 hours without taking a break.
Why it matters: The psychological tests cannot be faked on the spot. They map your innate characteristics directly to military requirements under severe time pressure.
Checklist
- TAT: Write 12 completely unique, solution-driven thematic stories
- WAT: Forge 60 positive, observation-based sentences for rapidly displayed words
- SRT: Write practical, common-sense reactions to 60 everyday distress situations
- SD: Memorize a well-balanced Self Description based on parents', teachers', and friends' perspectives
Dominate Group Testing (GTO)
Demonstrate on-the-ground leadership, physical courage, cooperativeness, and practical intelligence (Factor II) in outdoor group environments.
Real-world task: Organize a group outdoor activity or trek with friends, practicing how to pitch ideas, resolve disputes, and maintain group morale.
Why it matters: The military operates entirely in units. The GTO series proves that you can endure physical duress while cooperating and leading your peers efficiently.
Checklist
- Understand rules of color codes, distances, and leverage for Group Tasks (PGT/HGT/FGT)
- Express ideas clearly and accept others' ideas during Group Discussions (GD) and Group Planning Exercises (GPE)
- Build enough stamina to clear minimum 9 out of 10 Individual Obstacles
- Lead decisively during the Command Task utilizing your subordinates effectively without micromanaging
Ace the Personal Interview
Sit through a comprehensive, probing 45-60 minute interview with a senior officer (often the Board President) regarding your life choices.
Real-world task: Handwrite your PIQ form flawlessly. Undergo a strict mock interview entirely cross-questioning every detail written in it.
Why it matters: The IO assesses your maturity, truthfulness, and demeanor. Finding defensive behaviors, lies, or a lack of self-awareness here guarantees rejection.
Checklist
- Meticulously fill the Personal Information Questionnaire (PIQ); it drives your entire interview
- Introspect on academic performances, career choices, hobbies, and family relations
- Prepare to handle 'Rapid Fire' questions (5-6 questions asked consecutively) without breaking a sweat
- Develop deep opinions on current international geopolitical issues and internal security
Medical Examination 3 steps
Complete the Board Medical Exam
Clear the extensive 4-5 day medical evaluation at the base hospital proving you are clinically free of physical and systemic defects.
Real-world task: Get a preemptive private medical test done checking for common rejections like knock-knees, flat feet, carrying angle, or DNS.
Why it matters: A candidate must be resilient enough for extremely harsh terrains and warzones. Any existing medical handicap compromises team safety.
Checklist
- Undergo screening by dedicated medical, surgical, eye, and ENT specialists
- Complete extensive pathological tests (CBC, LFT, Urine, ECG, USG)
- Ensure proper bodily hygiene (remove ear wax, clean teeth) before reporting
- Maintain a steady resting heart rate to bypass surgical anomalies like sweaty palms or tachycardia
Clear Academy-Specific Standards
Fulfill highly specific anatomical standards tailored distinctly for Army, Navy, or Air Force service.
Real-world task: Carefully read the UPSC notification's medical appendix to ensure you meet the exact height, weight, and vision limits for your preferred academy.
Why it matters: Standards are non-negotiable. An Air Force candidate might be rejected for flying duties due to a slight vision drop but remain eligible for Army or Navy.
Checklist
- Navy: Demonstrate zero color blindness and flawless visual acuity requirements
- Air Force: Pass required anthropometric limits ( sitting height, leg length) for cockpit safety
- Army: Maintain a minimum acceptable BMI range per height/age charts
- Maintain 14 dental points (properly matched teeth pairs for mastication)
Navigate the Review Medical Board (RMB)
Leverage the appeals processor successfully rectify minor problems heavily if handed a Temporary Rejection (TR).
Real-world task: Formulate a strict 40-day diet and workout plan immediately if you receive a TR specifically for being overweight.
Why it matters: Almost 30-40% of recommended candidates face a TR. Remaining proactive and addressing the physiological condition saves your entire attempt.
Checklist
- Understand the difference between Permanent Rejection (PR) and Temporary Rejection (TR)
- Use the 42-day window effectively for surgeries or weight loss if given a TR
- Report to the allocated Command Hospital for the Review Medical Board exactly on time
- Retain all documentation securely during the appeal period
Academy Training 3 steps
Report and Adapt to Academy Life
Induct into the designated academy (IMA, OTA, INA, or AFA) and transform your mindset from a civilian graduate to a military cadet.
Real-world task: Begin a routine of running 5-8 kilometers comfortably and performing basic bodyweight workouts weeks prior to joining.
Why it matters: The initial weeks are notoriously designed to break civilian habits and ego, ensuring only those committed completely to service transition smoothly.
Checklist
- Arrive at the academy with the complete prescribed clothing and documentation kit
- Survive the brutal initial 'conditioning' period featuring extreme physical exertion and sleep deprivation
- Assimilate military drill, uniform turnout, and squadron/company ethos quickly
- Learn essential military etiquette, saluting, and mess protocols
Master Academics and Tactical Warfare
Undergo an aggressive curriculum balancing strategic military studies with physically demanding weapon handling, maneuvers, and trade skills.
Real-world task: Adopt a mindset of extreme discipline and attention to detail in your civilian life before you join, mimicking the required psychological state.
Why it matters: As an officer, you will lead troops directly in combat. Your tactical proficiency determines the success of a mission and the survival of your men.
Checklist
- Study military history, administration, and military law extensively
- Master the stripping, assembling, and firing of basic and advanced service weaponry
- Participate in grueling multi-day tactical camps (like Camp Rovers, Camp Chakravyuh)
- Pass rigorous Physical Training (PT) and Battle Physical Efficiency Tests (BPET)
Pass Out as a Commissioned Officer
Successfully complete your terms to graduate taking the ultimate oath of allegiance across the Antim Pag (Final Step) during the Passing Out Parade.
Real-world task: Watch the Passing Out Parades (POP) of IMA, INA, or AFA online to visualize your end goal and motivate your preparation journey.
Why it matters: Earning those stars (or stripes) represents the culmination of immense sacrifice and grants you the presidential commission to command troops in the Armed Forces.
Checklist
- Maintain flawless discipline to avoid relegation (being held back a term)
- Aim for performance-based appointments like Under Officer or Battalion Cadet Adjutant
- Clear all theoretical and physical exams simultaneously
- Cross the quarterdeck/drill square taking the final oath of service
Questions people ask about Combined Defence Services (CDS)
Clear answers regarding timelines, prerequisites, salaries, and study strategies.
How long does it take to become a Combined Defence Services (CDS)?
This roadmap estimates 1 year prep + 1–1.5 years Academy. It has 4 phases and 14 steps, from “Written Exam (UPSC CDS)” to “Academy Training”.
How do I become a Combined Defence Services (CDS) in India?
Follow the 4 phases in order, starting with Phase 1, “Written Exam (UPSC CDS)”. Your first task: Skim through the last 3 years of CDS papers and color-code topics based on your current comfort level.
How much does a Combined Defence Services (CDS) earn?
DraftMyCareer estimates ₹9L - ₹32L+ a year in India, from entry level to senior. It is an estimate, not an official figure; our methodology page explains how it is worked out.
What do I need before starting?
This roadmap lists: Bachelor's Degree (Specific streams required for Navy/Air Force); Age 19 to 25 years (varies by academy); Strict medical standards.
What skills does a Combined Defence Services (CDS) need?
This roadmap covers: English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics, Leadership, Physical Fitness, Aptitude.