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UPSC CDS Syllabus 2027
UPSC Combined Defence Services
UPSC (Union Public Service Commission)Offline (Pen & Paper)Twice a year
Total Questions100
Duration120 min
Total Marks300
Marking Scheme+1 for correct, -0.33 for incorrect
Exam Pattern
| # | Subject / Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | English | 33 | 100 |
| 2 | General Knowledge | 33 | 100 |
| 3 | Elementary Mathematics (for IMA/INA/AFA) | 33 | 100 |
| Total | 100 | 300 | |
Syllabus by Subject
E
English
Key topics covered as per the official UPSC CDS syllabus, including fundamental concepts, applications, and recent exam trends for English.
View English Syllabus →G
General Knowledge
Key topics covered as per the official UPSC CDS syllabus, including fundamental concepts, applications, and recent exam trends for General Knowledge.
View General Knowledge Syllabus →E
Elementary Mathematics (for IMA/INA/AFA)
Key topics covered as per the official UPSC CDS syllabus, including fundamental concepts, applications, and recent exam trends for Elementary Mathematics (for IMA/INA/AFA).
View Elementary Mathematics (for IMA/INA/AFA) Syllabus →Eligibility & Attempts
EEligibility Criteria
Graduate degree, age 19-25 years
ANumber of Attempts
Twice a year
Exam Schedule
Frequency
Twice a year
Next Exam Date
February 2027
Registration Opens
October 2026
Preparation Tips
- 1English section tests grammar, sentence correction, vocabulary, and comprehension — daily reading of quality English newspapers builds this skill
- 2GK section in CDS covers Indian and World History, Geography, Science, Polity, and current affairs from last 6 months
- 3Elementary Mathematics covers class 10 level — Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Statistics are key topics
- 4SSB preparation requires personality development — practice Group Discussions, leadership exercises, and develop a reading habit on current affairs
Frequently Asked Questions
Practice with Free Mock Tests
Now that you know the UPSC CDS syllabus, put your preparation to the test. Attempt free mock tests that mirror the real exam pattern.