UPSC CDS 2 Online Form 2025 Out – Step-by-Step Guide to Successfully Apply Now!

UPSC CDS 2 Online Form 2025 Out: The UPSC CDS 2 2025 exam is one of the most awaited events for young aspirants dreaming of joining the Indian Armed Forces. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially opened the CDS 2 2025 online application process starting from May 28, 2025, with the last date to apply being June 17, 2025. The exam will take place on September 14, 2025, and offers opportunities for candidates to join prestigious academies like the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).

In this article, we will break down the entire process of applying for UPSC CDS 2 2025, give you helpful tips, and guide you through the necessary steps to maximize your chances of success.

UPSC CDS 2 Online Form 2025 Out

The UPSC CDS 2 2025 exam presents an incredible opportunity for young individuals who wish to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. By following the step-by-step guide, understanding the eligibility criteria, and preparing thoroughly, you can enhance your chances of success.

Don’t delay the application process—apply early and ensure all documents are uploaded correctly. A career in the Armed Forces is a life of discipline, honor, and patriotism, so if you’re ready to make a difference, the CDS exam is your first step.

Introduction to UPSC CDS Exam

The UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam is a competitive examination that offers young candidates the opportunity to join the Indian Armed Forces, one of the most respected institutions in the country. Every year, thousands of hopefuls prepare and appear for this exam to serve in the Army, Navy, Air Force, or as an officer in the Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).

This year’s CDS 2 2025 exam will be conducted on September 14, 2025, and now is the time to apply. Whether you’re looking to lead troops in the field, work on naval vessels, or be part of a high-tech air force, the CDS exam is the gateway. Here, we present a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process with ease.

Guide to Apply for UPSC CDS 2 2025

The UPSC CDS application process is done entirely online. To make this process as smooth as possible, here’s a clear, easy-to-follow guide:

Step 1: One-Time Registration (OTR)

Before filling out the CDS 2 application form, you must complete a One-Time Registration (OTR) on the UPSC website.

1. Visit the official UPSC website: https://www.upsc.gov.in.
2. Go to the “Apply Online” section and select One-Time Registration.
3. Enter all required details, including your name, date of birth, email, and contact information.
4. Upload your scanned photograph and signature.
5. Submit the registration form. After verification through OTP, you are ready to proceed.

Step 2: Filling Out the CDS 2 2025 Application Form

Once you’ve completed OTR, log in and begin the application for CDS 2 2025.

1. Select the CDS 2 2025 exam under “Active Examinations.”
2. Fill in personal information such as name, father’s/mother’s name, nationality, gender, and community status.
3. Enter your educational qualifications (i.e., your degree or expected year of graduation).
4. Choose your exam center from the available options.
5. Agree to the terms and conditions and submit.

Step 3: Upload Documents and Pay the Application Fee

Next, upload the required documents and pay the fee:

1. Documents to upload:
   • Scanned photograph
   • Scanned signature
   • Photo ID proof (e.g., Aadhar Card, Passport)
2. Fee Payment:
   • ₹200 for General/OBC/EWS candidates.
   • No fee for SC/ST/Female candidates.
3. Once submitted, review all details, then proceed to submit the application.

Step 4: Final Submission and Confirmation

After completing all sections, submit the form. A confirmation page will appear. Download and print this page for future reference, as it contains your Registration ID and other essential details.

Understanding the CDS Exam Pattern

The UPSC CDS 2 2025 exam consists of a written test with the following components:

For IMA, INA, AFA Candidates:

• English: 100 marks
• General Knowledge: 100 marks
• Elementary Mathematics: 100 marks

For OTA Candidates:

• English: 100 marks
• General Knowledge: 100 marks

Marking Scheme:

• Each paper is of 2 hours.
• The exam is objective-based (MCQs).
• For every wrong answer, one-third mark is deducted.

Important Note: Candidates for IMA, INA, and AFA must attempt all three papers, while OTA candidates only need to complete the English and General Knowledge sections.

How to Prepare for the CDS Exam

Preparation for the UPSC CDS exam requires disciplined study and consistent effort. Here are some practical tips to get started:

1. Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly review the official syllabus for each subject: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked in each section.
2. Study Materials:
   • Books: Refer to standard books like Lucent’s General Knowledge, RS Aggarwal’s Mathematics, and Word Power Made Easy for English.
   • Online Resources: Use online platforms such as Unacademy, BYJU’s, and Testbook for video lessons and mock tests.
3. Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mock tests to assess your preparation. It will help improve time management and enhance your speed during the actual exam.
4. Revision: In the final weeks, focus on revising important concepts and formulas. Make concise notes that can be easily reviewed.

Benefits of Joining the Armed Forces

Joining the Indian Armed Forces through the CDS exam is not just a career—it’s an opportunity to serve the nation with honor and dignity. Some benefits of a career in the Armed Forces include:

• Job Security: The Indian Armed Forces offer lifetime job security, and you get to serve your country.
• Respect and Prestige: Being a part of the Indian Armed Forces earns you tremendous respect within society.
• Training and Development: You receive top-notch training that makes you highly skilled and capable in leadership and discipline.
• Attractive Pay and Perks: The pay scale in the Armed Forces is competitive, and you also enjoy perks like medical benefits, housing, and travel allowances.

Previous Year’s Statistics and Trends

The CDS exam is highly competitive. Here’s a glimpse of the trends from previous years:

• Number of applicants: In CDS 1 2024, over 3 lakh candidates applied for approximately 400 vacancies across the various academies.
• Success rate: Only about 1 in 10 candidates clear the written exam, and a similar proportion makes it through the SSB interview.
• Cut-off scores: The cut-off for IMA and INA was 120 marks in 2024, while for OTA, it was 90 marks.

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Post-Selection Process

Once you’ve passed the written exam, the next steps are:

1. SSB Interview: The Services Selection Board (SSB) conducts a 5-day interview process that assesses your leadership qualities, psychological fitness, and physical stamina.
2. Medical Examination: Candidates must meet the medical fitness standards set by the Armed Forces.
3. Training: After selection, candidates are enrolled in their respective academies for training.

FAQs About UPSC CDS 2 Online Form 2025 Out

1. Can I apply for the CDS exam if I’m in my final year of graduation?

Yes, you can apply for the CDS 2 2025 exam if you are in your final year of graduation. However, you must provide proof of your educational qualifications at the time of the SSB interview.

2. What is the selection process for the CDS exam?

After clearing the written exam, candidates undergo an SSB interview. The final selection depends on your performance in both the written test and the interview.

3. What is the syllabus for the CDS exam?

The CDS exam consists of three subjects: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Each section is designed to test your intellectual ability, general awareness, and mathematical skills.