The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I) 2024, offering more than 457 vacancies in various defense services. This is a golden opportunity for candidates who are passionate about joining the Indian Armed Forces. The application process is completely online, and the last date to submit applications is December 31, 2024.
UPSC CDS (I) 457+ Post’s Online Form 2024 overview
The UPSC conducts the CDS exam twice a year to select candidates for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Indian Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). The recruitment for these positions is based on the candidates’ performance in the written exam followed by an interview.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release Date | 31st December 2023 |
| Start of Online Application | 31st December 2023 |
| Last Date to Apply | 31st December 2024 |
| CDS (I) Exam Date | February 2024 |
Available Posts
The CDS (I) 2024 exam is offering more than 457 posts across various academies and services:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA): 100+ vacancies
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): 30+ vacancies
- Air Force Academy (AFA): 50+ vacancies
- Officers Training Academy (OTA): 200+ vacancies
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality
- Indian Citizen or
- Subject of Nepal or
- Subject of Bhutan or
- Tibetan Refugee or
- Person of Indian Origin (PIO) who has migrated from certain countries.
- Educational Qualifications
- IMA & INA: Candidate must have a graduation degree from a recognized university.
- AFA: Candidate must have a degree in engineering or a B.Sc. with Physics and Mathematics.
- OTA: Candidate must have a graduation degree from a recognized university.
- Age Limit
- IMA: 19 to 24 years
- INA: 19 to 22 years
- AFA: 20 to 24 years
- OTA: 19 to 25 years
- Physical Standards
Candidates must meet specific physical standards as outlined by the UPSC. This includes height, weight, and medical requirements. Details can be found in the official notification.
Steps to Apply Online
Step 1: Visit the Official UPSC Website
Go to the official website of UPSC – www.upsc.gov.in.
Step 2: Registration
- Click on the “Apply Online” link.
- Register by providing basic details such as name, date of birth, and contact information.
Step 3: Fill in the Application Form
- After successful registration, log in using your credentials.
- Fill in all required details, including educational qualifications, preferred academies, and other personal information.
Step 4: Upload Documents
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature in the specified format.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
- The application fee for general category candidates is ₹200.
- There is no fee for SC/ST and female candidates.
Step 6: send the Application
- Review your details and click on the “Submit” button.
- Print a copy of the completed form for future reference.
Selection Process
- Written Examination
- The written exam consists of three papers:
- English (100 marks)
- General Knowledge (100 marks)
- Elementary Mathematics (100 marks)
- Each paper is of 2 hours duration.
- SSB Interview
- Candidates who clear the written examination will be called for an interview by the Services Selection Board (SSB).
- The interview assesses candidates’ personality, intelligence, and suitability for a career in the Armed Forces.
The UPSC CDS (I) 457+ Post’s Online Form 2024 is an excellent opportunity for aspiring candidates who want to serve in the prestigious Indian Armed Forces. The application process is straightforward, and the eligibility criteria are clear. Ensure you meet all the requirements and apply before 31st December 2024 to avoid missing out.