What is the CDS 2027 exam pattern?

CDS has three papers of 100 questions each — English (120 min), General Knowledge (120 min), and Elementary Mathematics (120 min). Each paper carries 100 marks. OTA applicants appear only for English and GK.

What is the CDS eligibility for different academies?

IMA requires any graduate degree (age 19–24). INA requires Engineering degree (age 19–22). IAF Academy requires Physics + Maths in 12th with graduation (age 19–23). OTA accepts any graduate (age 19–25).

What is the CDS selection process after written exam?

Candidates shortlisted after written exam appear for SSB interview — a 5-day process with Officer Intelligence Rating test, Picture Perception, Group Testing, Psychology tests, and Interview. Final selection is based on written + SSB merit.

What is the expected CDS 2027 cutoff?

CDS cutoff (out of 300 for IMA) generally ranges from 105–130 for general category. CDS 2 2023 cutoff for IMA was 116, and INA was 126. OTA cutoff is comparatively lower at 85–100.

What is the salary of a CDS officer (Lieutenant)?

A commissioned Lieutenant through CDS earns basic pay ₹56,100 + Military Service Pay ₹15,500 + DA + HRA + transport allowance, totaling approximately ₹80,000–₹1,10,000 per month in-hand.