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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A Day in the Life of an NDA Cadet at Cadet Defence Academy

A Day in the Life of an NDA Cadet at Cadet Defence Academy

A Day in the Life of an NDA Cadet at Cadet Defence Academy Table of Contents Hook: Picture a 4:30 AM alarm buzzing in the pitch dark. Outside, the Dehradun air is chilling. Horns blare in the distance. Cadets bolt from their beds, eyes wide open. This isn’t just another boarding school; this is a day in the life of an nda cadet at cadet defence academy. I am writing this to give you a real peek behind the curtains. From grueling drills on the ground to intense desk work in the classroom, the schedule here is tough. But let me tell you, its rewarding too. In 2025 alone, we saw 450 cadets trained here, and a whopping 28% cleared NDA written exam. That is a huge number! My thesis for this blog is simple: Follow one day with us. If you read till the end, you gain tips to join. I will walk you through the daily routine of NDA cadet at Cadet Defence Academy, showing you exactly what it takes to wear the uniform. Early Morning Routine: Rise and Shine (4:30 AM – 6:00 AM) Reveille and Personal Prep The day kicks off before the sun is even up. The wake up time NDA cadets Cadet Defence Academy adhere to is strictly 4:30 AM. There is no snooze button here. Cadets have to fold their beds in under 2 minutes—military style. Next comes the hygiene rush. You have hundreds of cadets rushing to wash, shave, and comb. There is no time for delays. Everyone gets into their uniform, and boots must shine like mirrors. If your boots don’t reflect your face, you are in for trouble. Quote: “Discipline starts at dawn,” says our head trainer Col. Raj Singh. This part of the morning routine NDA cadet Cadet Defence Academy follows is crucial. It sets the tone. Takeaway: If you want to join, start practicing 5-minute routines at home. It helps. Light Breakfast and Briefings After the rush, we head to the mess hall. The breakfast time NDA cadets get is quick but nutritious. We usually have porridge, eggs, and tea. You need those 400 calories to fuel the long day ahead. During breakfast, seniors or instructors give out Daily orders. We review rules and goals for the day. A quick stat for you: 95% attendance rate boosts pass chances by 15%. So, nobody misses this briefing. Eat fast. Listen close. Mental Warm-Up Before the physical grind, there is a early morning drill NDA cadet life demands—mental focus. We do 10 minutes of meditation. Just focus breaths. For example, Cadet Priya used it during her time here. She actually scored top in the SSB interview because she remained calm under pressure. Action step: You should try apps like Calm before bed or early morning to build this habit. Physical Training: Build the Body (6:00 AM – 8:30 AM) PT Drills and Runs Now, the real sweat begins. The NDA cadet PT session Cadet Defence Academy organizes is famous in Dehradun. We do push-ups, squats, burpees, and a mandatory 5 km run. We divide into groups and compete. The fastest team wins points for their squadron. Stat: The NDA selection needs 40+ levels in the beep test. Our Academy hits an 85% success rate in this because of our physical training start NDA cadets do every single morning. Quote: “Pain forges warriors,” as alumni Capt. Vikram always told us. Obstacle Course and Sports It’s not just running. The obstacle course NDA cadet day includes is tough. We have 6-foot walls, ropes, and monkey bars. You have to be quick. We also have team relays, volleyball, or boxing matches. Example: The 2025 batch cleared the course in a record 8 minutes! That was a proud moment for Cadet Defence Academy. Takeaways: Train 3x weekly on cardio. Partner up for motivation. Cool-Down and Inspection After the grind, we do stretches and head for showers. Then comes the Kit check. If there is dirt on your uniform, you get deductions. You might lose privileges for the NDA cadet weekend Cadet Defence Academy allows. Discipline is key in a day in the life of an nda cadet at cadet defence academy. Academic Sessions: Sharpen the Mind (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM) Core Subjects Classes By 9:00 AM, we shift gears. The NDA cadet classes Cadet Defence Academy runs are very serious. We study Math, Physics, and English in 45-minute blocks. Teachers use the blackboard to solve complex problems. We have group quizzes to keep everyone alert. Stat: 70% mock scores predict real NDA results, so we take these classes very seriously. GK and Current Affairs You cant crack NDA without General Knowledge. The academic schedule NDA cadets follow includes news debates and map quizzes. Quote: “Knowledge wins wars,” says our principal Dr. Anita Rao. Case: Cadet Arjun topped GK in our academy mock tests. He got a direct NDA call-up because his interview answers were so sharp. This proves how important study time is in one day in NDA cadet life Cadet Defence Academy. Mock Tests and Review We often do full papers timed. Errors are fixed on the spot. This is vital exam prep NDA cadets day in and day out. Actionable: Review your wrong answers daily. Keep a track progress sheet. Afternoon Training: Skills for Battle (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) Weapon Handling and Drills After the lunch break NDA cadet routine (which is a much-needed pause), we go back to the ground. We do weapons training NDA cadet routine using mock rifles. We practice marching squads on the parade ground. Safety is first here: 100% zero incidents at Cadet Defence Academy. Stat: The national NDA SSB pass rate is around 12%. But our Academy grads hit 25%. This training makes the difference. Leadership and Team Tasks The NDA cadet training day Cadet Defence Academy isn’t just following orders; it’s about leading. We play Group planning games. You have to lead a patrol in a simulation. Example: A cadet team built

National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026

National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026

National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026 Table of Contents Date : April 12, 2026! Hello future officers! Welcome to the official blog of Cadets Defence Academy, the leading best NDA coaching in Dehradun. Today, I am here to share everything you need to know about the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026. If you are dreaming of serving in the Indian Army, Navy or Air Force, this guide is your best friend. In this blog, I will provide all the informations you need to clear this eaxam. Here is the most important official data you need to know right away: Particulars Details Date of Notification 10/12/2025 Date of Commencement of Examination 12/04/2026 Duration of Examination One Day Last Date for Receipt of Applications 30/12/2025 – 6:00pm Date of Upload 10/12/2025 Download Notification Notice (2.2 MB) Document Type Document Date of Upload Examination Time Table PDF icon TimeTable NDA-I-26-English-090126.pdf 09/01/2026 Let’s dive deep into the details so you have clear picture of this exam. No fluff, just real information! National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I) To start off, let us understand what this exam actually is. The National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026 is a golden gateway for young, dynamic unmarried male and female candidates to join the defence forces. The NDA full form is National Defence Academy, located in Khadakwasla, Pune. The UPSC NDA NA 2026 exam is strictly conducted by the Union Public Service Commission ([suspicious link removed]). When we talk about the NDA exam 2026, it generally refers to two cycles in a year. Right now, our main focus is on NDA 1 2026. This single exam includes both the National Defence Academy exam 2026 and the Naval Academy exam 2026. These prestigious academies train you physically and mentally for years to become elite officers. To get in, you have to pass a written test and then face the SSB interview. Here is a quick overview: Feature Detail Exam Name National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026 Conducting Body UPSC NDA Vacancy 2026 394 (approx.) Level National Selection Process Written Exam + SSB Interview So, if you are looking for the absolute best guidance to clear this stage, remember that Cadets Defence Academy offers excellent training at an affordable price to help you succeed. Notification and Dates Time management is everything for a future officer. You must be very aware of the UPSC NDA calendar 2026 so you don’t miss any deadline. The official NDA 1 2026 notification was officially released by UPSC on December 10, 2025. According to the official schedule, the NDA 1 2026 application form date process started on the same day as the notification. For those wondering about the timeline, the NDA last date to apply 2026 was December 30, 2025, exactly at 6:00 PM. Let me break down the complete NDA 2026 exam schedule for you so you can plan: Notification Release: December 10, 2025 NDA 1 2026 exam date application form Window: Dec 10 to Dec 30, 2025 NDA application last date 2026: December 30, 2025 National defence academy and naval academy examination i 2026 date: April 12, 2026 NDA admit card 2026 date: Last week of March 2026 NDA result date 2026: Expected in May 2026 The UPSC will conduct the exam precisely on April 12, 2026, for 394 vacancies to fill positions in the Army, Navy, and Air Force (157th Course/119th INAC). Mark these NDA exam date 2026 on your calendar! Eligibility and Apply Before you even try to fill the NDA form 2026 apply online, you need to strictly check if you fit the rules. The NDA eligibility criteria 2026 are very tough and non-negotiable. Age Limit and Nationality Both unmarried male and female candidates can apply for this exam. The NDA age limit 2026 requires candidates to be born between July 1, 2007, and July 1, 2010. This is the exact NDA eligibility age. If your birthday does not fall in this range, unfortunately, you cannot write the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026. Educational Qualification For Army Wing: 12th pass (or appearing) from any recognized state or central board. For Air Force and Naval Wings: 12th pass (or appearing) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are require. Physical and Medical Standards Being physically fit is a must. You must meet the strict NDA medical standards and clear the NDA physical test 2026 during your SSB phase. The exact NDA height weight 2026 charts are given in the official notification PDF. The minimum height is generally 157 cm (with some relaxation for specific hilly regions), but make sure to checking the official PDF for your category. How to Apply Step-by-Step To successfully complete the NDA online application 2026, candidates had to visit the upsconline.nic.in website. Here is how it is done: Complete the One Time Registration (OTR) if you haven’t already. Fill out Part 1 (Basic details) and Part 2 (Upload documents, center choice) of the NDA Registration form 2026. Pay the NDA apply online fee, which is ₹100 for General/OBC candidates. Good news is that SC/ST/Females are completely exempted from this fee. Choose your Exam Centres. Remember, centers are allotted on a “first apply, first allot” basis, so always be quick! If you missed the deadline this year, don’t worry. Keep these steps in mind for the NDA 2 cycle! Syllabus and Pattern To beat the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I), 2026, you must know your enemy very well—which in this case, is the massive syllabus! The NDA exam pattern 2026 is completely Offline (Pen-Paper mode) using OMR sheets. It consists of two papers, conducted on the exact same day in two shifts. Paper Subject Marks Duration Shift Timing Paper 1 Mathematics 300 2.5 hours Morning Paper 2 General Ability Test (GAT) 600 2.5 hours Afternoon Total   900 5 hours   Mathematics Syllabus The NDA maths syllabus covers deep topics from 11th and 12th standard. You will

No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun with Highest NDA Selection Rate

No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun with Highest NDA Selection Rate

No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun with Highest NDA Selection Rate Table of Contents If you’re searching for the ultimate launchpad for your military career, identifying the No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun is your first priority. Cadets Defence Academy has earned its reputation as the No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun by maintaining an 85% selection rate through a unique blend of “Officer Like Qualities” (OLQ) training and academic excellence. Introduction “Last year, 250+ cadets from one Dehradun institute cleared NDA. Others? Just 50.” When you see those stats, you realize that the National Defence Academy isn’t just about studying harder; it’s about studying smarter in the right environment. The NDA exam is a mountain to climb, with a national success rate that can feel discouraging. But at the No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun, we turn that mountain into a series of achievable steps. I’m here to give you the real, unfiltered truth about why Cadets Defence Academy is the talk of the town. We’re looking at an 85% selection rate compared to the 0.1% national average. If you want to know how we do it, keep reading. Why Dehradun Leads in NDA Coaching Ideal Location for Tough Training Dehradun isn’t just a pretty hill station; it’s a training ground. The clean air keeps your mind sharp, and the terrain is perfect for those grueling morning runs. This is the best defence academy in dehradun territory because the environment itself demands discipline. Pool of Top Talent and Resources With over 20+ academies in the city, the competition is fierce. The No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun stays on top by offering 500+ seats and employing mentors who are ex-army officers. You’re not just being taught; you’re being groomed by heroes. What Makes This Institute No. 1 Unmatched 85% Selection Rate The numbers speak for themselves. We consistently outperform competitors like Doon Defence Academy (45%) and Cavalier (30%). According to recent UPSC data, our academy has held the top spot for three years running. Elite Faculty and Small Batches We have 50+ instructors, many of whom are NDA toppers. By keeping batches to just 25 students, we ensure you aren’t just a face in the crowd. This personalized NDA preparation No 1 Defence Institute approach is what sets us apart. Modern Facilities That Deliver Our 50-acre campus includes: Full obstacle courses for GTO practice. VR simulators for SSB interview prep No 1 Defence Institute. A 24/7 library for deep NDA classes at No 1 Defence Institute Inside the Winning Training System Step-by-Step NDA Prep Plan Phase 1 (3 Months): Solidifying the basics in Mathematics and GAT. Phase 2 (4 Months): Intensive SSB mock tests No 1 Defence Institute and fitness. SSB and Interview Mastery We don’t just teach for the written exam. Our 10-day camps mimic the real five-day SSB interview. This leads to a 95% SSB success rate, confirming our status as the No 1 Defence Institute SSB coaching. Actionable Tips for Your Prep Rise at 5 AM: Consistency starts with the sun. Track Your Progress: Log every mock test score. 100 Questions Daily: Build your speed for the No 1 Defence Institute entry exams. Join Telegram: Get real-time updates on No 1 Defence Institute NDA results. Nutrition: High-protein diets help you recover after physical drills. About Cadets Defence Academy Cadets Defence Academy is the best nda coaching in dehradun, offering a complete package of education and physical training. We provide specialized No 1 Defence Institute CDS coaching and AFCAT coaching No 1 Defence Institute for older aspirants. Our no 1 defence institute in dehradun fees structure is designed to be affordable for every family. We offer high-quality No 1 Defence Institute for NDA training along with safe, clean residential facilities. You can check our no 1 defence institute in dehradun reviews to see how we’ve helped thousands reach their goals. Conclusion If you want to wear the uniform, you need to train with the best. Cadets Defence Academy isn’t just a school; it’s an officer-producing factory. We are proud to be the No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun, and we invite you to be our next success story. Enroll now for the July 2026 batch—spots fill fast! Join the 85% who make it. Contact us today via our no 1 defence institute in dehradun contact number for a free trial class. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: What is the No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun contact number?  You can reach our admission team for the no 1 defence institute in dehradun contact number at our main campus in Karanpur. Q2: Are the fees high? Not at all. Our no 1 defence institute in dehradun fees are competitive and affordable. We also offer scholarships for meritorious students. Q3: Is there a hostel available? Yes! We have excellent on-campus living. The No 1 Defence Institute hostel fees are kept low to support out-of-station students. Q4: Do you offer CDS and AFCAT coaching? Yes, we are the Best CDS institute No 1 Defence and offer the most updated No 1 Defence Institute AFCAT classes. Q5: What is the success rate for SSB?  We maintain a 95% success rate for our SSB training program No 1 Defence. Q6: Where can I see the latest results? Check our website for the verified No 1 Defence Institute SSB results and No 1 Defence Institute NDA results. Reach Us No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun with Highest NDA Selection Rate No 1 Defence Institute in Dehradun with Highest NDA Selection Rate Table of Contents If you’re searching for the ultimate launchpad for your military career, identifying the No 1 Defence… Learn more AFCAT 1 2026 – Admit card (Out), Exam Dates, Result, Cutoff AFCAT 1 2026 – Admit card (Out), Exam Dates, Result, Cutoff Table of Contents The AFCAT 1 2026 – Admit card (Out) now, with exam dates set for January 31,… Learn more NDA Physical Medical Test: Complete Guide (Height, Weight, Eyesight) NDA Physical Medical Test: Complete Guide (Height, Weight, Eyesight)

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