The CDS selection process has three stages. The SSB recommendation rate is approximately 20–40% of those who appear, making the interview the most critical differentiator. Final selection is subject to medical fitness.
Stage-by-Stage Selection
- Stage 1 – UPSC Written Exam: Held biannually (February/September). Shortlists ~3–4 times total vacancies per academy for SSB based on written merit.
- Stage 2 – SSB Interview (5 Days): Day 1 – Screening (OIR + PPDT); Day 2–4 – Psychological Tests, Group Tasks, Personal Interview; Day 5 – Conference. Conducted at SSBs across India by Army/Navy/Air Force.
- Stage 3 – Medical Examination: At designated military hospitals. Strict vision, orthopaedic, and general health checks. Medically unfit candidates are eliminated.
- Document Verification: Original degree, domicile, category certificates verified before training allotment.
Training & Commissioning
| Academy | Training Duration | Commissioned As | Commission Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMA, Dehradun | 1.5 Years | Lieutenant (Army) | Permanent Commission |
| INA, Ezhimala | 1.5 Years | Sub-Lieutenant (Navy) | Permanent Commission |
| AFA, Hyderabad | ~1.5 Years (74 weeks) | Flying Officer (Air Force) | Permanent Commission |
| OTA, Chennai | 11 Months | Lieutenant (Army – SSC) | Short Service Commission |
Officer Pay Scale (7th CPC + MSP)
| Rank | Basic Pay | MSP | Approx. In-Hand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lieutenant / Sub-Lt / Flying Officer | ₹56,100 (Level 10) | ₹15,500/month | ₹85,000–₹95,000 |
| Captain / Lt Cdr / Flight Lt | ₹61,300 (Level 10B) | ₹15,500/month | ₹95,000–₹1,05,000 |
| Major / Commander / Sqn Ldr | ₹69,400 (Level 11) | ₹15,500/month | ₹1,05,000–₹1,20,000 |