UPSC Combined Defence Services Exam Pattern, Syllabus & Practice Tests

UPSC Combined Defence Services Examination Anatomy & Key Highlights

The UPSC Combined Defence Services is a premier national selection test conducted by central recruiting authorities for prestigious officer commissions and executive appointments across central services and defence establishments.

Conducting Body UPSC / Central Recruitment Board

Exam Frequency Annual / Biannual (Twice a Year for CDS/NDA/AFCAT)

Total Questions & Marks 100 to 120 Objective MCQs per Subject Paper

Exam Duration 120 Minutes (2 Hours per Paper)

Marking Scheme Standard UPSC / Service Scheme (+Marks, 1/3rd Negative)

Cutoff / Standards Aggregate Written Minimum & Minimum Sectional Qualifying

Score Validity Course Commencement / Selection Batch

Attempt Limit Defined by Age Limits prescribed in Official Gazette

Minimum Educational Qualifications & Eligibility Criteria

Official academic qualifications, age boundaries, and category concessions applicable for UPSC Combined Defence Services:

Educational Qualification

Prescribed Academic Qualification

Graduation / 10+2 / Matriculation from a recognized University or Board in accordance with the specific post notification.
Relevant technical diploma or degree where specified for specialized technical cadres.
Certificates must be obtained from UGC / AICTE / Government recognized institutions.

Age Limit & Relaxations

Age Bracket & Concessions

Minimum Age: 18 to 21 Years • Maximum Age: 27 to 35 Years (as on crucial date).
SC / ST: 5 Years Relaxation • OBC: 3 Years Relaxation • PwBD: 10 Years Relaxation.
Ex-Servicemen: Concession as per Central / State Government service rules.

Important: Candidate must be a Citizen of India and satisfy all physical, medical, and character fitness standards prescribed in the recruitment rules.

UPSC Combined Defence Services Paper Structure & Marks Distribution

Section-by-section breakdown of total questions, maximum marks, and time duration verified against the official UPSC Combined Defence Services scheme.

Written Examination (IMA / INA / AFA)

Subject / Section	Questions	Marks	Duration
English Language & Comprehension	120 MCQs	100 Marks	120 Minutes
General Knowledge & Current Affairs	120 MCQs	100 Marks	120 Minutes
Elementary Mathematics	100 MCQs	100 Marks	120 Minutes
Total (Written Examination (IMA / INA / AFA))	340 Questions	300 Marks	360 Minutes

Written Examination (Officers Training Academy - OTA)

Subject / Section	Questions	Marks	Duration
English Language & Comprehension	120 MCQs	100 Marks	120 Minutes
General Knowledge	120 MCQs	100 Marks	120 Minutes
Total (Written Examination (Officers Training Academy - OTA))	240 Questions	200 Marks	240 Minutes

How to Prepare for UPSC Combined Defence Services and Score High

Follow this proven 4-stage preparation roadmap designed for government competitive examinations:

Understand the Official Syllabus & Weightage

Break down the syllabus chapter by chapter and identify high-weightage scoring topics across reasoning, quantitative aptitude, English, and general awareness.

Clear Concepts & Daily Topic-Wise Practice

Study core concepts with standard textbooks and solve 30–50 topic-level questions daily to build problem-solving muscle memory.

Solve 5–10 Years Previous Question Papers (PYQs)

Analyze real exam papers to understand question patterns, recurring trap options, and time management tactics.

Take Online CBT Mock Tests on TargetExams

Practice in real exam-simulated conditions on TargetExams with instant scorecards, answer explanations, and performance metrics.

Frequently Asked Questions on UPSC Combined Defence Services

What is the selection process for UPSC Combined Defence Services?

The selection process generally comprises a Computer Based Written Examination followed by Skill Test / Physical Test / Document Verification and Medical Examination.

Is there negative marking in the written test?

Yes, negative marking of 1/3rd or 1/4th is applicable for wrong answers as per the official examination scheme.

Can candidates from other states apply?

Yes, Indian citizens from all states are eligible to apply under the Open / Unreserved category, subject to fulfilling state language and eligibility norms.

How can I practice mock tests on TargetExams?

You can access all chapter-wise, subject-wise, and full-length mock tests directly on TargetExams with instant solutions, explanations, and performance tracking.