COACHING FOR CDS EXAM (COMBINED DEFENCE SERVICES)
✅ CDS Eligibility Criteria (As per UPSC)
📌 1. Nationality:
A candidate must be:
A citizen of India, or
A subject of Nepal or Bhutan, or
A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st January 1962 with the intention to permanently settle in India, or
A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African countries (like Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, etc.) intending to settle permanently in India.
📌 2. Age Limit, Sex & Marital Status:
| Academy | Age Limit | Gender | Marital Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMA (Indian Military Academy) | 19–24 years | Male | Unmarried |
| INA (Indian Naval Academy) | 19–24 years | Male | Unmarried |
| AFA (Air Force Academy) | 20–24 years (upper age limit relaxed up to 26 years for candidates with valid CPL license) | Male | Unmarried |
| OTA (Officers’ Training Academy – Men) | 19–25 years | Male | Unmarried |
| OTA (Officers’ Training Academy – Women) | 19–25 years | Female | Unmarried / Widow / Divorcee (without remarriage) |
📌 3. Educational Qualification:
| Academy | Qualification |
|---|---|
| IMA | Graduation from a recognized university |
| INA | Degree in Engineering |
| AFA | Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level OR a Bachelor of Engineering |
| OTA | Graduation from a recognized university |
Note: Final year candidates can apply, but they must submit proof of passing the exam at the time of SSB.
📌 4. Physical Standards:
Candidate must be physically fit according to the physical standards of the respective academy.
Height: Minimum 157.5 cm for men (AFA: 162.5 cm); Minimum 152 cm for women (OTA).
Vision, hearing, and overall fitness are thoroughly tested.
Permanent tattoos are allowed only on the inner forearm (specific rules apply).