The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has opened applications for the CDS 2 exam, your gateway to a fulfilling career in the Indian Defence Forces. Mark your calendars – the exam is set for September 1st, 2024.
From May 15th to June 4th, 2024, a window of opportunity awaits. Don’t miss this chance to apply online and vie for one of the 459 vacancies across the prestigious academies – Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).
The CDS exam is a highly competitive national-level test, designed to select the most qualified and dedicated individuals for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. If you emerge victorious from the written exam, you’ll embark on a rigorous training journey at your chosen academy. Upon successful completion, you’ll be commissioned as a lieutenant, officially becoming an officer in the Indian Defence Forces. And the best part? You’ll receive a handsome stipend of INR 56,100 per month while you train!
This article is your one-stop guide for the CDS 2 exam. We’ll delve into the details you need key dates, eligibility criteria, available positions, exam format, and the complete selection process. So, get ready to embark on your journey towards serving the nation and leading a distinguished career in the Indian Defence Forces.
What is the CDS Exam ?
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is administered by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit Commissioned Officers for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This examination is conducted biannually, typically in February and September, attracting numerous candidates nationwide.
The selection process involves a written examination followed by the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview, which assesses candidates’ intelligence and personality. Successful candidates are then placed in one of the following academies based on their preferences and merit:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Officers Training Academy (OTA)
The CDS Exam provides a pathway for those aspiring to serve as officers in the Indian Defence Forces, offering rigorous training and a prestigious career.
CDS Exam Dates 2024
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the dates for the CDS 1 and CDS 2 exams for 2024 through its tentative calendar. The CDS 2 exam is set to take place on September 1, 2024.The notification for this exam was published on May 15, 2024, and the application window is open from May 15 to June 4, 2024.
The schedule for the CDS exams in 2024 was made available by UPSC in their official exam calendar for the year 2023-24, providing candidates with the necessary information to prepare for these important national-level Defence entrance exams.
Steps to Fill CDS 2 2024 Application Form Online
Follow these steps to apply for the CDS 2 exam:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official UPSC website: upsconline.nic.in.
- Login to the OTR Platform: Log in to your account on the One Time Registration (OTR) platform. If you haven’t registered yet, complete the OTR process first.
- Part 1 Registration: Fill in the required details for Part 1 registration. This involves providing personal information, educational qualifications, and other details.
- Upload Documents: Upload your photograph, signature, and photo identity proof as per the specifications mentioned in the form.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the application fee through the available online payment options.
- Choose Exam Centre: Select your preferred exam centre for the CDS 2 exam.
- Submit the Application Form: Review all the details you have entered, then submit the application form.
- Confirmation Message: After successful submission, a confirmation message will be sent to your registered mobile number and email ID.
For the application form, click here.
CDS Eligibility Criteria 2024
To be eligible for the CDS 2024 exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Nationality
Candidates who have permanently settled in India can apply for the CDS exam.
Age Limit
Candidates must meet the prescribed age limits for different academies:
Indian Military Academy (IMA):
Unmarried males must of age between 19 to 24 years.
Indian Naval Academy (INA):
Unmarried male candidates of age between 19 to 24 years.
Air Force Academy (AFA):
Candidates should be between 20 to 24 years.
The upper age limit is relaxed up to 26 years for candidates holding a valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India).
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – SSC Course for Men:
Unmarried male candidates must be between 19 to 26 years.
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – SSC Women Non-Technical Course:
Candidates (unmarried women, issueless widows who have not remarried, and issueless divorcees who have not remarried) must be between 19 to 26 years.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must possess the following educational qualifications to apply for the CDS exam:
Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA):
A graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Indian Naval Academy (INA):
An engineering degree from a recognized university.
Air Force Academy (AFA):
An engineering degree from a recognized university.
Candidates in the final year/semester of their graduation can also apply, provided they do not have any backlog up to the last year/semester for which results have been declared at the time of submitting the application form. They must submit proof of passing graduation at the commencement of the course.
Conclusion
Great news for anyone who dreams of serving in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force! The UPSC is holding their CDS 2 exam on September 1st, 2024. This is your chance to apply to become an officer and join these prestigious forces.
The application window is open now, from May 15th to June 4th, 2024. Don’t miss out! There are a total of 459 spots available across the different academies.
This might be a challenging exam, but if you pass, you’ll be well on your way to an exciting career. You’ll undergo rigorous training to become an officer and upon successful completion, you’ll be commissioned as a lieutenant. The best part? You’ll even receive a salary of INR 56,100 per month during your training period!
