UPSC CDS 2026
UPSC CDS
Union Public Service CommissionNational Offline (Pen & Paper / OMR) Apply Online (upsconline.nic.in) Twice a Year (CDS-I & CDS-II) hard
UPSC CDS 2026 Overview
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination conducted by UPSC recruits graduate officer cadets into premier training academies: Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).
Training Academies & Course Types
| Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun | Permanent Commission (Army) |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala | Permanent Commission (Navy - Executive Branch) |
| Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad | Permanent Commission (Air Force - Flying Branch) |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai | Short Service Commission (Men & Women) |
Explore UPSC CDS
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What is the difference between IMA and OTA in CDS exam?
IMA (Indian Military Academy) trains for Permanent Commission (requires 3 written papers: English, GK, Maths). OTA (Officers Training Academy) trains male and female officers for Short Service Commission (requires only 2 papers: English and GK; Mathematics is not required).
Q.Can women apply for CDS?
Yes! Women candidates can apply specifically for Officers Training Academy (OTA Chennai) for Short Service Commission (Non-Technical).
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