UPSC NDA & CDS Defence Officer Entrance Preparation
National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Services (CDS) examinations conducted by UPSC commission officer trainees into the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force.
Exam Overview & Eligibility
Conducting Authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Eligibility Criteria: NDA: 12th Pass (PCM for Navy/Air Force); CDS: Bachelor's Degree; Unmarried candidates within prescribed age brackets.
Selection Process Stages
- UPSC Written Examination
- Services Selection Board (SSB) 5-Day Interview & Psychological Testing
- Comprehensive Medical Board Examination
Defence Exams (NDA & CDS) Exam Pattern
| Tier / Stage | Mode | Questions | Total Marks | Duration | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NDA Written Exam (Maths + GAT) | Offline (OMR) | 270 Qs | 900 Marks | 300 Mins | 1/3rd deduction per wrong answer |
| CDS Written Exam (English + GK + Elementary Maths) | Offline (OMR) | 300 Qs | 300 Marks | 360 Mins | 0.33 deduction per wrong answer |
Syllabus Breakdown: Subject & Topic Practice
Target your preparation topic-by-topic instead of attempting random mixed question sets:
Quantitative Aptitude
Practice verified questions for Defence Exams (NDA & CDS) across all Quantitative Aptitude topics. Identify conceptual errors with step-by-step solutions.
General Awareness
Practice verified questions for Defence Exams (NDA & CDS) across all General Awareness topics. Identify conceptual errors with step-by-step solutions.
English
Practice verified questions for Defence Exams (NDA & CDS) across all English topics. Identify conceptual errors with step-by-step solutions.
Why Adaptive Practice Outperforms Traditional Mocks for Defence Exams (NDA & CDS)
- Master the high-speed elementary and higher mathematics required in NDA & CDS.
- Strengthen General Science (Physics & Chemistry) and English grammar under timed pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the syllabus of Mathematics in NDA vs CDS?
NDA Mathematics covers Class 11 and 12 mathematics (Calculus, Matrices, Trigonometry, Vectors). CDS Elementary Mathematics covers Class 10 arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and mensuration (for IMA, INA, and AFA).
Is English compulsory in NDA and CDS?
Yes, English is an essential paper in both NDA (part of General Ability Test) and CDS (standalone 100-mark paper).