UPSC Combined Defence Services
UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) · Offline (Pen & Paper) · Twice a year
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UPSC CDS Exam Pattern
Complete exam pattern with subject-wise breakdown, marking scheme, and duration.
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English | 33 | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 33 | 100 |
| Elementary Mathematics (for IMA/INA/AFA) | 33 | 100 |
| Total | 100 | 300 |
About UPSC Combined Defence Services (UPSC CDS) 2027
The UPSC Combined Defence Services (UPSC CDS) is one of the most competitive entrance exams, conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission). Preparing for the UPSC CDS requires systematic practice, conceptual clarity, and regular self-evaluation. Our platform offers dynamic mock tests, previous years' resolved papers, and AI-enabled analysis to help you secure a top rank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different academies under UPSC CDS 2027?
UPSC CDS 2027 offers entry to IMA (Indian Military Academy, Dehradun), INA (Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala), AFA (Air Force Academy, Hyderabad), and OTA (Officers Training Academy, Chennai for SSC entries). IMA, INA, AFA require Math paper; OTA does not.
What is UPSC CDS exam pattern?
For IMA/INA/AFA: 3 papers — English (100Q, 100 marks), GK (100Q, 100 marks), Elementary Mathematics (100Q, 100 marks). Each paper is 2 hours. For OTA: 2 papers — English and GK only. All have +1/-0.33 marking.
What is UPSC CDS salary after commissioning?
After commissioning as Lieutenant: ₹56,100-₹1,77,500 per month (Level 10). With Military Service Pay (₹15,500/month), Field Area Allowance, DA, and free accommodation, the total package is ₹80,000-₹1,10,000 per month for a fresh officer.
How many vacancies are expected in UPSC CDS 2027?
UPSC CDS 2027 typically has 350-450 vacancies per cycle (2 cycles per year). CDS I 2024 had 457 vacancies while CDS II 2024 had 342 vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.
What is SSB interview in UPSC CDS?
SSB (Services Selection Board) is a 5-day assessment for written-qualified candidates. Day 1: PPDT and OIR Test (screening). Days 2-4: Psychology Tests (TAT, WAT, SRT, SD), Group Tests (GTO), and Personal Interview. Day 5: Conference. Only about 40-60% of SSB attendees get recommended.
How to Prepare for UPSC CDS
English section tests grammar, sentence correction, vocabulary, and comprehension — daily reading of quality English newspapers builds this skill
GK section in CDS covers Indian and World History, Geography, Science, Polity, and current affairs from last 6 months
Elementary Mathematics covers class 10 level — Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Statistics are key topics
SSB preparation requires personality development — practice Group Discussions, leadership exercises, and develop a reading habit on current affairs