UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025: Complete Guide for Aspirants

The UPSC CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam is a golden opportunity for graduates who dream of becoming officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.

Every year, lakhs of candidates appear for this prestigious exam, so knowing the UPSC CDS syllabus and following the right preparation strategy is key to success.

This guide will walk you through the subject-wise syllabus, exam pattern, cut-off and practical preparation tips to help you confidently crack the CDS exam.

UPSC CDS Exam Overview

UPSC CDS Exam Pattern 2025

1. Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper)
2. Type: Objective (MCQs)
3. Duration: 2 hours for each paper
4. Negative Marking: 1/3rd marks will be deducted for each wrong answer
5. Language: Hindi and English (except the English paper)

Many candidates often get confused about the difference between OTA and IMA/ INA/ AFA, especially those who do not actually appear for these exams. Let’s break it down in simple words.

1. IMA, INA, AFA (Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy)

IMA (Indian Military Academy), INA (Indian Naval Academy), and AFA (Air Force Academy) exams are only for male candidates. The IMA, INA, and AFA are the classic training academies for future Army, Navy, and Air Force officers.

Candidates appearing here have to tackle three papers: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. The total marks are 300.

This means the exam is slightly tougher, especially for those who struggle with numbers. Mathematics is compulsory, and even a single mistake can affect your score.

• There are three papers:
  1. English – 100 Marks
  2. General Knowledge – 100 Marks
  3. Elementary Mathematics – 100 Marks
• Marks: Total 300
• Duration: 2 hours for each paper
• The mathematics paper is compulsory for all IMA, INA, and AFA candidates.

2. OTA (Officers Training Academy)

OTA (Officers Training Academy) is mainly for men and women who want to join the army but through a shorter training course.

Here, candidates only face English and General Knowledge papers. There is no Mathematics, which makes it slightly less stressful for those who aren’t very confident in maths.

• Papers: There are two papers:
  1. English – 100 Marks
  2. General Knowledge – 100 Marks
• Marks: Total 200 marks
• Duration: 2 hours for each paper

overall Summary

UPSC CDS Subject Wise Syllabus

To succeed in the CDS exam, it’s important to understand the detailed syllabus for each subject. Below, we break down English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics, explaining key topics and useful preparation tips for each.

1. English (100 Marks)

Objective: To assess the candidate’s understanding of the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.

Topics covered:

1. Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, One-word substitution, Idioms & Phrases, Phrasal verbs
2. Grammar: Sentence correction, Fill in the blanks, Spotting errors, Active & Passive Voice, Direct & Indirect speech
3. Comprehension: Reading passages with questions to test understanding, inference, and context

Tip: Read newspapers daily, practice previous year question papers, and maintain a word notebook for new vocabulary.

2. General Knowledge (100 Marks)

Objective: To evaluate awareness of current events, history, geography, politics, economy, and general science.

Topics covered:

1. Current Affairs: Important national & international events, awards, sports, government schemes
2. History: Ancient, Medieval, Modern, and Indian Freedom Struggle
3. Geography: Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India and the World
4. Polity & Economy: Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights & Duties, Governance, Basic Economics, Budget, and Finance
5. Science & Environment: General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology basics), Environmental issues, Ecology, Biodiversity

Tip: Stay updated with newspapers, government portals, and monthly GK magazines. Practice MCQs to improve speed.

3. Elementary Mathematics (100 Marks) (Only for IMA, INA, AFA)

Objective: To test problem-solving ability and basic understanding of mathematical concepts.

Topics covered:

1. Arithmetic:
   • Percentage, Profit & Loss
   • Simple & Compound Interest
   • Ratio & Proportion, Average
   • Time, Work & Distance
2. Algebra: Linear and Quadratic equations, Simple expressions
3. Geometry: Lines, Angles, Triangles, Circles, Quadrilaterals
4. Trigonometry: Trigonometric ratios, Height & Distance problems
5. Mensuration: Area, Volume of shapes
6. Statistics: Mean, Median, Mode

Tip: Practice previous years’ maths questions. Focus on speed and accuracy.

UPSC CDS Expected Cutoff Marks

Based on my analyses and previous trends, the expected cutoff marks for the UPSC CDS exam are as follows:

Note: These are expected cutoffs and may vary based on factors like the number of vacancies, difficulty level of the exam, and overall performance of candidates.

Key Points to Remember

1. Minimum Qualifying Marks: Candidates must secure at least 20% marks in each subject (English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics) to be eligible for the next stage.
2. Written Exam Cutoff: Represents the aggregate marks of the last candidate selected for the SSB interview.
3. Final Exam Cutoff: Represents the aggregate marks of the last candidate recommended for training.

Selection Process

Cracking the UPSC CDS exam is just the first step in your journey to becoming a commissioned officer. Once you clear the written exam, candidates move through a series of stages designed to evaluate their overall potential, both mentally and physically.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the CDS selection process:

1. Written Examination

• This is the first hurdle and tests your knowledge in English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (Maths is only for IMA, INA, and AFA candidates).
• Only candidates who meet or exceed the written exam cutoff qualify for the next stage.

2. SSB (Service Selection Board) Interview

• This is a five-day process designed to evaluate your officer-like qualities.
• It includes Psychological Tests, Group Tasks, Personal Interview, and Physical Fitness Assessment.
• The goal is to check your leadership potential, decision-making, teamwork, and personality traits.

3. Medical Examination

• Candidates recommended by the SSB undergo a medical examination at designated military hospitals.
• The assessment ensures you are physically and medically fit to undergo rigorous military training.
• Even a strong written score won’t help if you fail the medical standards, so staying fit is crucial.

4. Final Merit List

• The final selection is based on aggregate marks from the written exam and SSB interview (including medical fitness).
• The list is prepared separately for each academy: IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.
• Candidates included in the final merit list are then called for training at their respective academies.

Smart Preparation Tips

1. Start early, make a timetable dividing time between English, GK and Maths (if applicable).
2. Practice previous year CDS papers and regular mock tests to assess your level.
3. Use NCERTs for GK basics and good grammar books for English.
4. Revise important facts and make short notes for last-minute reference.
5. Stay focused and consistent; don’t skip topics, and revise regularly.
6. Keep yourself healthy and motivated; a fit mind and body are essential for the SSB interview!

Even if you are just starting, don’t panic. Break down the syllabus into small chunks. Focus on daily goals and small wins; this keeps motivation high. Remember, the CDS exam tests both knowledge and strategy, so plan smartly.

FAQs: UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025

Conclusion

Cracking the UPSC CDS exam is all about balanced study, regular revision, and self-confidence. Understand the syllabus thoroughly, work on past papers, and keep your current affairs updated. With smart efforts and self-belief, you can turn your defence dreams into reality!

For those also preparing for state-level opportunities, check out the BPSC ATP Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2025 for detailed insights.