The UPSC CDS (I) & (II) 2025 Selection Procedure is a comprehensive process designed to identify the best candidates from the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA). The procedure comprises a written examination, Sercices Selection Board (SSB) interview, document verification and medical examination. The written exam test English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics (only for IMA, INA and AFA). OTA candidates appear for English and General Knowledge only. Qualified candidates proceed to the SSB, which evalues officer-like qualities (OLQs), followed by physical and medical fitness assessments. Below are the detailed stages:
Stages of CDS (I) & (II) 2025 Selection Procedure
Written Examination:
Consists of objective-type questoins on English, General Knowledge and Mathematics.
Total marks: 300 for IMA, INA, and AFA; 200 for OTA.
Each section requires a strategic balance of accurancy and speed.
SSB Interview:
Conducted in two stages:
Stage 1: Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test and Picture Perception and Decription Test (PPDT).
Stage 2: Psychological tests, Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks, personal interview and conference.
Duration: 5 days, assessing mental agility, leadership, teamwork and communication skills.
Document Verification:
Candidates must present proof of educational qualifications, age and identity.
Any discrepancies may lead to disqualification.
Medical Examination:
A comprehensive medical check-up ensures candidates meet the required physical and medical standards for defense services.
Includes test for vision, hearing, and overall fitness.
Final Merit List:
Based on Performance in the written exam and SSB Interview.
Medical fitness is also considered for final selection.
This rigorous procedure ensures that only the most capable and fit candidates are selected for prestigious roles in the Indian Armed Forces through the UPSC CDS (I) & (II) 2025 exams.