Applications are invited for the UPSC NDA & CDS Exam 2025. Eligible candidates from across India can apply online for the UPSC NDA & CDS Recruitment 2025. Detailed instructions are available on the official portal homepage and within the profile modules to guide candidates in filling out the application and uploading the required documents.Candidates are strongly advised to read these instructions carefully and prepare all necessary documents in advance to ensure a smooth application process. Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria for admission to the examination. Admission at every stage of the examination is provisional and subject to verification of eligibility.For a seamless application process, candidates should carefully follow the instructions regarding photograph and document uploads as provided on the online application portal. Detailed information regarding age limits, educational qualifications, and other eligibility criteria is provided below.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start | 11/12/2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 30/12/2025 |
| Last Date to Pay Application Fees | 30/12/2025 |
| Admit Card Release | Before Exam |
| Written Exam Date | 12/04/2026 |
| More Details | Check Official Notice |
Application Fees
| Category | NDA Exam Fee | CDS Exam Fee |
|---|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100 | ₹200 |
| SC / ST / Other Categories | ₹0 | ₹0 |
Payment Mode: Candidates can pay the exam fee online only via Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
Age Limit
| Exam | Minimum Age | Maximum Age | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|---|---|
| NDA | 16.5 Years | 19.5 Years | As per Government Rules |
| CDS | 19 Years | 25 Years | As per Government Rules |
UPSC CDS Exam 2025 Education Qualifications
| Course Name | Total Posts | Educational Qualification | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 | Passed/Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in any stream from a recognized university | 19–24 years |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 | Passed/Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from a recognized university | 19–24 years |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 | Bachelor’s Degree in any stream with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level, or Engineering | 20–24 years |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Men) | 293 | Passed/Appearing Bachelor’s Degree in any stream from a recognized university | 19–25 years |
UPSC NDA & NA II 2025 Vacancies And Qualifications
| Academy | Service | Male Vacancies | Female Vacancies | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NDA | Army | 198 | 10 | 10+2 Intermediate Exam in any recognized board in India |
| NDA | Navy | 37 | 5 | 10+2 Intermediate with Physics & Mathematics in any recognized board in India |
| NDA | Air Force Flying | 90 | 2 | 10+2 Intermediate with Physics & Mathematics in any recognized board in India |
| NDA | Air Force Ground Duties Tech | 16 | 2 | 10+2 Intermediate with Physics & Mathematics in any recognized board in India |
| NDA | Air Force Ground Duties Non-Tech | 8 | 2 | 10+2 Intermediate with Physics & Mathematics in any recognized board in India |
| Naval Academy | Naval Academy | 21 | 3 | 10+2 Intermediate with Physics & Mathematics in any recognized board in India |
UPSC NDA & CDS 2025 Selection Process
| Phase | Selection Stage |
|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Written Examination |
| Phase 2 | SSB Interview (Intelligence & Personality Test) |
| Phase 3 | Document Verification |
| Phase 4 | Medical Examination |
| Phase 5 | Issuance of Joining Letter |
General Instructions for Candidates Before Applying Online
- Service Preference:
Candidates must clearly specify in the online application form the services they wish to be considered for, in the 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 by the Services Selection Board (SSB). - Examination Schedule and Centres:
Candidates will be informed of the timetable and examination venue(s). No requests for a change of examination centre will be entertained. - Date of Birth Verification:
The date of birth accepted by the Commission will be as entered in the Matriculation or Secondary School Leaving Certificate or a certificate recognized by an Indian University as equivalent. - Application Submission:
Once the online application form is submitted, no addition, deletion, or changes are allowed under any circumstances for NDA & NA examinations. - Eligibility Restriction:
Candidates debarred by the Ministry of Defence from holding any type of commission in the Defence Services are not eligible for admission to the examination.
Important Links
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| UPSC CDS 2025 Apply Online | Apply Online |
| UPSC NDA 2025 Apply Online | Apply Online |
| Officer Training Academy (OTA) Registration | Click Here |
| Detailed Notification (NDA & CDS) | View Notification |
| Official UPSC Website | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the last date to apply online for UPSC NDA & CDS 2025?
The last date to submit the online application is 30th December 2025.
What are the eligibility criteria for UPSC NDA & CDS 2025?
Eligibility is based on age limits, educational qualifications, and nationality. Candidates must ensure they meet all conditions before applying.
Can I change my examination centre after submitting the application?
No, requests for a change of centre will not be accepted.
What documents are required during the application process?
Candidates need to upload scanned copies of their photograph, signature, and relevant certificates as per instructions on the portal.
Where can I download the official UPSC NDA & CDS notification?
The official notification can be downloaded from the UPSC official website
Conclusion
UPSC NDA & CDS 2025 examination offers a prestigious opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces through the National Defence Academy, Naval Academy, and Combined Defence Services. Eligible candidates are advised to carefully review all instructions, eligibility criteria, and important dates before applying online. Ensure that all required documents are prepared in advance and follow the official guidelines strictly to avoid any errors during the application process.Staying updated with official notifications and adhering to the selection process will help candidates smoothly navigate through written exams, SSB interviews, document verification, and medical examinations. This is a significant step toward serving the nation in a dynamic and honorable career in defence services.