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UPSC CDS Exam Pattern 2026: IMA / INA / AFA vs OTA Marking Scheme

UPSC CDS

Union Public Service CommissionNational hard
OverviewSyllabusEligibilityExam PatternCut-off

IMA, INA & AFA Scheme (Total 300 Marks)

SubjectDurationMax Marks
English2 Hours100 Marks
General Knowledge2 Hours100 Marks
Elementary Mathematics2 Hours100 Marks
Total Written (IMA/INA/AFA)6 Hours300 Marks

Officers Training Academy (OTA) Scheme (Total 200 Marks)

English (100 Marks / 2 Hours) + General Knowledge (100 Marks / 2 Hours). Total: 200 Marks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.What is the negative marking in UPSC CDS?

For every wrong answer, 1/3rd (0.33) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted.
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