CDS Exam Pattern 2024, Marking Scheme IMA, INA, AFA and OTA

CDS Exam Pattern 2024, Marking Scheme IMA, INA, AFA and OTA

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts Combined Defence Services exam or the CDS Exam twice a year. This exam acts as an entrance test for admission into the various military academies. These academies are Indian Military Academy(IMA), Indian Naval Academy(INA), Air Force Academy(AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy(OTA).

To create a preparation strategy, all the candidates at first must be aware of the CDS Exam Pattern and the syllabus. This article will cover all the details about the CDS Exam Pattern 2024.

This blog will help candidates to understand other details like marking scheme for IMA, INA, AFA and OTA (negative marks for every incorrect answer), duration of each exam and much more.

UPSC CDS Exam Pattern Overview 2024
Exam Mode Offline
Sections Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA) and Air Force Academy (AFA)- Three Officers’ Training Academy (OTA)- Two
Language of exam Hindi and English
Exam Duration Two hours for each section of the test
Total Marks IMA, INA and AFA- 300 OTA- 200(It consists of 2 exam)
Exam Type MCQ (Multiple Choice question)

CDS Exam Pattern 2024 - Written Test

CDS Exam Pattern 2024 is not same for all military academics. The exam conducted for the Officers’ Training Academy(OTA) is slightly different in terms of total number of sections. However, the questions in both papers will be objective type only. The exam will be in both English and Hindi language. Details of the exam are as follows:

CDS Exam Pattern For Indian Naval Academy (INA), Indian Military Academy(IMA), and Air Force Academy(AFA)

There will be three sections in the exam English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Each section will carry 100 marks and the duration will be 2 hours and for every incorrect answer one third of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted. Maths and GK question paper will be in both English and Hindi language.

Subjects Exam Duration Total Questions Marks
English 2 hours 120 100
General Knowledge 2 hours 120 100
Elementary Mathematics 2 hours 100 100

CDS Exam Pattern for Officers’ Training Academy (OTA)

Elementary Mathematics section is not included in this exam. All other aspects like duration, exam language and total marks, negative marking scheme are same for this exam.

Subject Exam Duration Total Questions Marks
English 2 hours 120 100
General Knowledge 2 hours 120 100

Marking Scheme For CDS Exam 2024

Marking Scheme For CDS Exam 2024

CDS written exam is in MCQ format and there will be four options for each question and for every wrong answer, every incorrect answer one third of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted

If for a single question two or more choices have been marked as answers, it will be considered as wrong answer and as of penalty one third of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted same as mentioned above.

There will be no penalty for unattempted questions

CDS Exam Details Mathematics  English Exam General Knowledge 
Total marks 100 100 100
Marks for Negative marking -0.33 marks for each wrong answer -0.33 marks for each wrong answer -0.33 marks for each wrong answer

CDS Syllabus 2024

Now you are aware of the exam pattern and marking scheme, have a look at the basic overview of the CDS exam Syllabus.

English

This section will evaluates candidates’ understanding of English. The level of English will be such as may be expected of a graduate of an Indian University.

  • Reading Comprehension.
  • Spotting the Error
  • Synonyms & Antonyms.
  • Idioms and Phrases.
  • Sentence Arrangement or Jumbled.
  • Ordering of words in Sentence.
  • Sentence Improvement or Sentence Correction

General Knowledge

  • Current affairs
  • Indian History
  • Political Science
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • Environment

Elementary Mathematics

  • Arithmetic
  • Geometry
  • Algebra
  • Trigonometry
  • Mensuration
  • Statistics

CDS exam Syllabus for OTA

Topics covered in CDS OTA examination are GK and English and the syllabus is same as for INA, IMA, and AFA. The only difference is that OTA exam doesn’t include mathematics.

FAQ

Yes, for every wrong answer one third of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted.

No, the exam pattern for OTA is slightly different from IMA, INA, and AFA because these 3 have three sections in exam (English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics), while OTA has only two (English and General Knowledge) but the syllabus is same for all.

General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics exam is in both Hindi and English language.

No, Maths is not included in OTA exam.

Bachelor's degree  is necessary from a UGC(University Grants Commission) recognized university.

Contact Us

It is important to understand the CDS Exam Pattern 2024 for all the candidates who are aiming to join Indian armed force, this will help them to prepare for the exam. For IMA, INA, and AFA, there will be three exams: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics, 100 marks each and. Syllabus for OTA candidates is same, the only difference is that they don’t have to give Maths exam. So, create your study schedule based on the exam syllabus, and prepare for your CDS Exam 2024.

If you need help for the CDS exam, Cadets Defence Academy, Best CDS Coaching in Dehradun will help you do so. With our experts guidance and comprehensive study materials, you will have all the skills and knowledge required to prepare for CDS exam.

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NDA 1 2026 Offline Batch – Journey for the Uniform Starts at Cadets Defence Academy

NDA 1 2026 Offline Batch – Journey for the Uniform Starts at Cadets Defence Academy

NDA 1 2026 Offline Batch – Journey for the Uniform Starts at Cadets Defence Academy Table of Contents Is your heart set on joining the hallowed ranks of the Indian Armed Forces? Does the thought of serving the nation, leading from the front, and wearing the uniform fill you with a sense of purpose? If you’re an aspiring officer, the National Defence Academy (NDA) is your gateway to this prestigious career. The NDA 1 2026 examination is a major milestone, and starting your preparation early with the right guidance is the key to success. Here at Cadets Defence Academy, Dehradun, we understand that a competitive exam like the NDA requires more than just self-study. It demands discipline, a structured approach, expert mentorship, and a holistic development plan. That’s precisely what our NDA 1 2026 Offline Batch is designed to provide. Our new batch starts on September 20, 2025, and this blog post will walk you through everything you need to know about our upcoming batch, from the syllabus and exam pattern to the unique benefits of offline coaching. Why Choose Offline Coaching for NDA 1 2026? In today’s digital world, online courses are readily available, but when it comes to a rigorous, multi-faceted exam like the NDA, offline coaching offers unparalleled advantages. Structured and Disciplined Environment: An offline classroom provides a focused, distraction-free atmosphere. You’ll be part of a community of dedicated aspirants, all working towards a common goal, which fosters motivation and healthy competition. Direct Interaction with Expert Faculty: Direct interaction with expert faculty is a key advantage of offline NDA coaching. It provides a disciplined environment, immediate doubt resolution, and a customized study plan tailored to an individual’s strengths and weaknesses. Holistic Development: For holistic development, our offline batch focuses on more than just the written exam. We include comprehensive training for the SSB Interview, covering physical fitness, mock interviews, and group discussions, to help you develop the “officer-like qualities” (OLQs) needed for success. Access to Resources: Our Dehradun campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, a well-stocked library, and a supportive residential environment. You’ll have all the resources you need to focus entirely on your preparation. NDA 1 2026: Exam Structure & Syllabus The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and consists of two main papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT). Mathematics (Paper I): This section carries 300 marks and includes 120 questions. The syllabus covers a wide range of topics, including Algebra, Matrices and Determinants, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry (2D and 3D), Differential and Integral Calculus, Vector Algebra, Statistics, and Probability. General Ability Test (GAT) (Paper II): This paper is a significant component, carrying 600 marks with 150 questions. It is further divided into two parts: Part A – English (200 marks): This tests your English language skills, including grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, and usage. Part B – General Knowledge (400 marks): This is a broad section with questions from Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Events. The questions are designed to test your general awareness and understanding of the world around you. At Cadets Defence Academy, our curriculum is meticulously crafted to cover every topic in the official NDA syllabus with a special focus on proven shortcut methods and problem-solving techniques. We conduct regular mock tests to help you get a feel for the actual exam environment and identify your strengths and weaknesses. The All-Important SSB Interview Preparation Passing the written exam is only the first step. The SSB interview is a five-day process that is equally, if not more, challenging. It’s a test of your personality, not just your knowledge. Our program includes a comprehensive SSB preparation module led by experienced professionals. The SSB process is divided into two stages: Stage I (Screening Test): Includes Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and the Picture Perception and Description Test (PP&DT). Stage II (Psychological & Group Testing): This is where the real assessment happens, with a series of tests including the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), Situation Reaction Test (SRT), and Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks like group discussions and obstacle races. Our training focuses on developing essential skills like effective communication, critical thinking, and leadership, ensuring you are confident and prepared for every stage of the SSB process. NDA 1 2026 Key Dates & Eligibility While the official notification will be released on December 10, 2025, the exam is scheduled for April 12, 2026. This gives you ample time to prepare, but it also highlights the need for a focused and disciplined approach. Educational Qualification: For the Army Wing: You must have passed the 12th Class (10+2 pattern) from a recognized board. For the Air Force and Naval Wings: You must have passed the 12th Class with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized board. Age Limit: You must be unmarried and born between July 2, 2007, and July 1, 2010. If you meet these criteria, you are ready to begin your journey. Don’t wait until the last minute—the competition is fierce, and early preparation gives you a significant advantage. Conclusion: Your Future Awaits at Cadets Defence Academy The path to becoming a commissioned officer in the Indian Armed Forces is a challenging yet immensely rewarding one. It requires unwavering dedication, rigorous preparation, and, most importantly, the right guidance. Our NDA 1 2026 Offline Batch, with its new session starting on September 20, 2025, is more than just a coaching class; it’s a comprehensive training program designed to transform you into a successful candidate. We invite you to take the first step towards your dream. Join our community of dedicated aspirants and let our expert faculty, structured curriculum, and holistic training prepare you for success. Don’t leave your future to chance. Choose the proven path. Join Cadets Defence Academy, Dehradun, and begin your journey toward a life of honour, courage, and service. FAQs about the NDA 1 2026 Offline Batch 1. What is the fee structure for the NDA 1 2026 offline batch?  The

Is the CDS Exam Really Hard? Preparation Tips & Insights

Is the CDS Exam Really Hard? Preparation Tips & Insights

Is the CDS Exam Really Hard? Preparation Tips & Insights Table of Contents When people think about joining the Indian Armed Forces through the CDS exam, the first question that comes to mind is usually – is CDS exam tough? Honestly, it’s different for everyone. Some find it manageable, while others feel it’s really challenging. The difficulty often depends on how you prepare, your basics in subjects like English, Maths, and General Knowledge, and how you handle competition. In this guide, we’ll break down what makes the CDS exam tough and share tips to make your preparation easier. What is the CDS Exam and Who Can Apply? Before debating whether the exam is tough or not, it’s good to know what it actually is. The CDS exam, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), recruits’ candidates for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Eligibility is fairly straightforward – you need to be a graduate, within a specific age bracket, and physically fit. Sounds simple, right? But the simplicity of eligibility is where the real challenge hides. Because this broad gate allows lakhs of candidates to apply, and the competition shoots through the roof. Is the CDS Exam Tough or Just Overhyped? A lot of aspirants keep asking – is CDS exam tough compared to other defence tests? The truth is, the paper itself isn’t rocket science, but the catch is in the volume of competition and the unpredictability of questions. Unlike exams where the syllabus is highly focused, CDS requires a mix of English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics – and that blend makes it tricky. Some students with strong basics may call it easy, while others drown in the vastness of GK or the time pressure of maths. So it’s tough for some, moderate for others, but definitely not a cakewalk for anyone. Which Part of the CDS Exam is the Hardest? Let’s get real, not all sections are equal in difficulty. English Section: It looks simple on paper, but the comprehension passages, error detection, and vocabulary can sometimes be unexpectedly tricky. If you’re not in the habit of reading, English may feel like a roadblock. General Knowledge: Without doubt the most unpredictable. Questions can range from history, polity, economics, current affairs, geography to science – literally everything under the sun. Many aspirants agree this is where most marks are lost. Mathematics: The level is around high school (class 10), so not very advanced. But solving quickly under time pressure, with negative marking looming, makes it harder than it looks. So if someone asks you is CDS exam tough subject-wise, you could confidently say GK is the most confusing, English is tricky, and Maths is manageable if your basics are sharp. How Competitive is the CDS Exam? Even if you’re well-prepared, the number of competitors makes CDS feel tougher. Every year lakhs apply, but only a small percentage finally make it to the academies. Cut-offs fluctuate depending on the paper’s difficulty and the number of vacancies, but they’re never too low. This means it’s not only about clearing minimum marks but also performing well above average. The competition is like a marathon where everyone is sprinting, and if you stop for a breather, others will overtake you. How Much Time Should You Spend Preparing for CDS? A common worry: “How many months are enough?” The answer isn’t universal. For someone with a strong base in English and Maths, 3–4 months of consistent preparation could be enough. But if GK is your weak area, even a year might feel short. The exam tests consistency more than anything else. Studying in bursts of motivation and then leaving gaps will make you feel like CDS is harder than it really is. Better to study steadily every day, even if just 2–3 hours, than cramming endlessly in the last month. Why Do Aspirants Find the CDS Exam Tough? There are multiple reasons. The breadth of GK makes students nervous. Negative marking means even one careless guess can sink your score. Balancing studies with graduation or job responsibilities often feels overwhelming. Many underestimate English and later regret it. So, when people say is CDS exam tough, often it’s not just the paper but the circumstances around preparation that make it challenging. Is CDS Harder Than NDA or AFCAT? A popular comparison. NDA is for 12th pass students, while CDS is for graduates, so naturally, the level of questions is a bit higher. AFCAT, on the other hand, is considered slightly easier than CDS, but its selection ratio is still competitive. In terms of toughness, most agree: NDA < AFCAT < CDS. However, the final verdict depends on your strengths. Someone strong in English may find CDS easier than NDA maths, while a science student may enjoy AFCAT more. Can a Beginner Crack CDS in the First Attempt? Absolutely. First-attempt success stories are common. It requires discipline and the ability to learn from past years’ papers. But don’t assume it’s easy. You’ll need to follow a strategy, stay regular, and avoid the temptation of only reading current affairs without touching core GK topics. If you’re consistent, even as a beginner, you won’t need years. But inconsistency will make you join the long list of “next attempt hopefuls.” Tips to Make CDS Exam Preparation Easier Some ideas that work well: Solve Previous Year Papers: This gives a real sense of difficulty level. Focus on GK Gradually: Read newspapers, yearbooks, and revise NCERT basics. Time Management: Practice with a timer to handle the exam pressure. English Improvement: Read editorials, learn idioms, practice comprehension daily. Maths Strategy: Stick to basics but practice speed and accuracy. Small tip – don’t try to master everything. Prioritize and play smart. Should You Join Coaching for CDS? Coaching isn’t mandatory, but it helps. If you’re disciplined and can follow a study plan, self-study works perfectly fine. However, many aspirants feel coaching gives them a structure, accountability, and exposure to

NDA 2 2025 Last Month GAT Preparation Tips: How to Maximize Your Score in 30 Days

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The NDA 2 2025 exam is right around the corner—scheduled for September 14, 2025. If you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking, “Can I really improve my GAT score in just one month?”

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