UPSC CDS-II & NDA-II 2025: Applications Open for 859 Vacancies — Check Eligibility, Exam Dates, and How to Apply

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for CDS-II and NDA-II 2025, offering a combined total of 859 vacancies. The application window is now open, and interested candidates can apply until June 17, 2025.

This is a golden opportunity for aspirants seeking prestigious careers in India’s defense forces, including the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination and National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination are among the most sought-after defense recruitment exams conducted by UPSC annually.

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📋 UPSC CDS-II & NDA-II 2025: Overview

Both examinations are national-level recruitment drives that open gateways to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers.

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📢 Vacancy Details

The CDS-II 2025 vacancies are for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).

The NDA-II 2025 vacancies include positions in the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings, including the Naval Academy’s 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme.

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🎯 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet specific eligibility conditions for each examination.

1. Nationality

• Must be a citizen of India, or

• A subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or

• A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962.

2. Age Limit

CDS-II 2025

• IMA/INA/AFA: Unmarried male candidates born between July 2, 2002, and July 1, 2007.

• OTA (Men/Women): Unmarried candidates born between July 2, 2001, and July 1, 2007.

NDA-II 2025

• Male/Female candidates born between January 2, 2007, and January 1, 2010.

3. Educational Qualifications

CDS-II 2025

• IMA & OTA: Graduation in any discipline.

• INA: Degree in Engineering.

• AFA: Degree with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or Bachelor’s in Engineering.

NDA-II 2025

• Army Wing: 12th Class pass of the 10+2 pattern of School Education or equivalent examination.

• Air Force and Naval Wings: 12th Class pass with Physics and Mathematics.

Note: Final-year candidates may apply provided they meet the eligibility by the time of the interview/SSB process.

4. Physical Standards

Candidates must be physically fit according to physical standards specified by UPSC and the respective defense academies.

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💻 How to Apply for UPSC CDS-II & NDA-II 2025

Eligible candidates can apply online by following these steps:

Step 1: Registration

• Visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in.

• Click on “Apply Online” and select the link for CDS-II or NDA-II 2025.

Step 2: Fill Application Form

• Complete the registration by filling in personal, educational, and contact details.

Step 3: Upload Documents

• Upload scanned copies of:

  • Photograph

  • Signature

  • Photo Identity Card

Step 4: Application Fee Payment

• Application Fee:

  • General/OBC: ₹200

  • SC/ST/Female candidates: Exempted

• Payment can be made via Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or offline mode (SBI Challan).

Step 5: Submit Application

• Review the form carefully.

• Submit and save a copy of the application form and fee receipt for future reference.

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📝 Selection Process

The selection procedure for both exams involves:

1. Written Examination

2. SSB Interview/Personality Test

3. Medical Examination

Candidates qualifying in the written examination will be invited for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.

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📚 Exam Pattern

CDS-II 2025

OTA Candidates: Only English and General Knowledge papers.

NDA-II 2025

Both exams are conducted in offline mode and consist of objective-type questions.

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📖 Syllabus Highlights

• English: Grammar, Comprehension, Synonyms/Antonyms, Sentence Correction.

• General Knowledge: Current Events, Indian History, Geography, General Science.

• Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Statistics.

• GAT (NDA): English, General Knowledge, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, Current Affairs.

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📆 Important Dates

Candidates should ensure timely application submission and regularly visit the UPSC website for updates.

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📩 Why Apply for UPSC CDS-II & NDA-II 2025?

• Prestigious Career: Opportunity to join Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers.

• Professional Growth: Fast-track career advancement with leadership opportunities.

• Attractive Perks: Competitive pay scale, free accommodation, healthcare, pensions, and other military allowances.

• National Pride: Serve and protect the nation with honor.

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🛑 Key Points to Remember

• Check eligibility thoroughly before applying.

• Submit accurate information to avoid disqualification.

• Prepare systematically for both the written exam and SSB interview.

• Use the official UPSC portal for application submission and updates.

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🔗 Direct Links

• Official Notification: Download Here

• Apply Online: Application Portal

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📚 Preparation Tips for UPSC CDS-II & NDA-II 2025

• Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the marking scheme.

• Focus on Basics: Build strong fundamentals in Maths, English, and GK.

• SSB Preparation: Work on communication, leadership skills, and physical fitness.

• Mock Tests and Practice Papers: Regular practice enhances speed and accuracy.

• Stay Updated: Follow current affairs and national events closely.

Consistent preparation and confidence are key to clearing these prestigious exams.

Apply Here