Applications are invited for the UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025 from eligible candidates across India. Interested candidates can apply online and download the official notification PDF for detailed information. Before applying, candidates should carefully read the instructions provided on the official portal, which guide the process of filling out the application form and uploading required documents. It is recommended to prepare all necessary documents in advance to ensure a smooth application experience. Candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, as admission at every stage of the examination will be provisional and subject to verification. Special attention should be given to the instructions regarding photograph and document uploads. Detailed information about age limits, educational qualifications, and other eligibility requirements is provided below.
UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 29 May 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 17 June 2025 |
| Last Date to Pay Application Fee | 17 June 2025 |
| Admit Card Release Date | Before Exam |
| Written Exam Date | 14 September 2025 |
| More Details | Check Official Notification |
UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025 Application Fees
| Category | Application Fee (INR) | Payment Mode |
|---|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | 100/- | Online (Debit Card / Credit Card / Net Banking / UPI) |
| SC / ST / Other Categories | 0/- | Online (Debit Card / Credit Card / Net Banking / UPI) |
UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025 Age Limit
| Exam | Minimum Age | Maximum Age | Date of Birth Eligible | Age Calculation Date | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CDS | 20 Years | 24 Years | – | – | As per Govt Rules |
| NDA | – | – | 2 Jan 2007 – 1 Jan 2010 | 01 July 2026 | As per Govt Rules |
UPSC CDS Exam 2025 – Education Qualification
| Course Name | Total Posts | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 | Passed / Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in any stream from a recognized university |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 | Passed / Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from a recognized university |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 | Bachelor’s Degree in any stream with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level, or Engineering degree |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Men) | 276 | Passed / Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in any stream from a recognized university |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Women) | 19 | Passed / Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in any stream from a recognized university |
UPSC NDA & NA II 2025 – Vacancies and Educational Qualifications
| Wing / Academy Name | Total Posts | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| NDA Army | 208 | Passed 12th (Intermediate) Exam from any recognized board in India |
| NDA Navy | 42 | Passed 12th (Intermediate) Exam with Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics (PCM) |
| NDA Air Force (Flying) | 92 | Passed 12th (Intermediate) Exam with PCM from any recognized board |
| NDA Air Force (Ground Technical) | 18 | Passed 12th (Intermediate) Exam with PCM from any recognized board |
| NDA Air Force (Ground Non-Technical) | 10 | Passed 12th (Intermediate) Exam from any recognized board |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry) | 36 | Passed 12th (Intermediate) Exam with PCM from any recognized board |
UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025 – Selection Process
| Phase | Selection Stage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Written Examination | Initial screening through written test |
| Phase 2 | SSB Interview | Intelligence and Personality Test |
| Phase 3 | Document Verification | Verification of eligibility and submitted documents |
| Phase 4 | Medical Examination | Fitness assessment as per UPSC standards |
| Phase 5 | Joining Letter | Issuance of appointment letter after successful completion of all phases |
General Instructions for Online Application
- Service Preference: Candidates must clearly specify in the online application form the services they wish to be considered for, in order of their preference.
- Admission Process: Admission to the courses will be based on the results of the written examination conducted by UPSC, followed by the Intelligence and Personality Test conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB).
- Examination Schedule: Candidates selected for the examination will be informed of the timetable and exam center(s). Note that no request for a change of center will be entertained.
- Date of Birth: The date of birth accepted by UPSC is as entered in the Matriculation or Secondary School Leaving Certificate or an equivalent certificate recognized by an Indian University.
- Finality of DOB: Once a date of birth has been submitted in the online application form, it will be final and cannot be changed in any circumstances.
- No Changes Post Submission: After submission, no addition, deletion, or modification is allowed in the online application form.
- Disqualification: Candidates who are debarred by the Ministry of Defence from holding any type of commission in the Defence Services will not be eligible for admission to the examination.
- Careful Filling: Candidates are advised to carefully review all details before submitting the online application form, as no corrections will be permitted later.
Important Links – UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025
| Purpose | Link / Action |
|---|---|
| UPSC CDS Apply Online | Register / Login |
| UPSC NDA Apply Online | Register / Login |
| OTR Registration | UPSC OTR Registration |
| Detailed Notification – NDA / CDS | View Notification |
| Official UPSC Website | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025?
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the NDA (National Defence Academy) and CDS (Combined Defence Services) examinations for recruitment into the Indian Armed Forces. NDA is for candidates after 10+2, while CDS is for graduates.
How can I apply for UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025?
Eligible candidates can apply online through the official UPSC portal. Make sure to carefully follow the instructions, fill out all details accurately, and upload the required documents.
What is the last date to apply online?
The last date to submit the online application for both NDA & CDS 2025 is 17 June 2025.
Where can I download the official notification PDF?
The official UPSC NDA & CDS 2025 notification PDF can be downloaded from the UPSC website or through the “Detailed Notification” link provided on the official portal.
How will I know my exam center and timetable?
Candidates selected for the examination will be informed via the official UPSC portal. No request for change of exam center will be entertained.
Conclusion
UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025 provides a prestigious opportunity for eligible candidates across India to join the Indian Armed Forces. Interested aspirants must carefully review the official notification PDF, complete the online application accurately, and ensure they meet all eligibility criteria including age, education, and other requirements. With a structured selection process comprising the written exam, SSB interview, document verification, and medical examination, thorough preparation is key to success. Candidates are advised to follow the official instructions closely, prepare their documents in advance, and submit applications before the last date, 17 June 2025. Staying updated through official links and resources will help aspirants navigate the process smoothly and take a confident step toward a rewarding career in defence services.
