Are you eligible for CDS 2 2025 ? Guide by Shield Defence Academy

Ever dreamt of wearing the uniform and serving the nation with pride? The CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam is your gateway to the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. But before diving into preparation, let’s answer one vital question: Are you eligible for CDS 2 2025? Shield Defence Academy breaks it all down for you—no confusing jargon, just straight facts.

Eligible for CDS 2 2025 Overview

What’s Special About CDS 2 2025?

CDS 2 2025 is the second cycle of the CDS exams conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) for the year. It opens doors to prestigious academies like IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. This exam isn’t just a test—it’s the first step toward a decorated career in the Indian Armed Forces.

Key Dates and Notification Info

• Notification Release: Expected in May 2025

• Application Period: May to June 2025

• Exam Date: Likely in September 2025

Mark your calendars early and be prepared!

Basic Eligibility Criteria

Nationality Requirements

To apply, you must be:

• A citizen of India, or

• A subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or

• A Tibetan refugee (settled before Jan 1, 1962), or

• A person of Indian origin from select countries like Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African nations—settled in India permanently.

Gender Eligibility

• IMA, INA, AFA: Only unmarried male candidates

• OTA (SSC Men): Unmarried male candidates

• OTA (SSC Women): Unmarried women, issueless widows, and divorcees

Age Limit for CDS 2 2025( Are you eligible for CDS 2 2025 )

For Indian Military Academy (IMA)

• Born between: 2nd July 2002 and 1st July 2007

• Age: 19 to 24 years

For Indian Naval Academy (INA)

• Born between: 2nd July 2002 and 1st July 2007

• Age: 19 to 24 years

For Air Force Academy (AFA)

• Born between: 2nd July 2001 and 1st July 2005

• Age: 20 to 24 years (Relaxation up to 26 for CPL holders)

For Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Men & Women)

• Born between: 2nd July 2001 and 1st July 2007

• Age: 19 to 25 years

Educational Qualification

IMA & OTA

• Degree from a recognized university (Any stream)

INA

• Degree in Engineering from a recognized institution

AFA

• Degree with Physics and Math at 10+2 level
  OR

• Bachelor of Engineering

Physical and Medical Standards

General Fitness Guidelines

• You must be in good physical and mental health

• Free from any diseases or disabilities that may hinder duty

Vision and Hearing Standards

• AFA: 6/6 vision without glasses preferred

• IMA/OTA/INA: Slight visual corrections accepted

Height and Weight Chart

• Minimum Height:

  • Men: 157.5 cm

  • Women (OTA): 152 cm

• Weight: Proportional to height and age

Marital Status Criteria

Why does marital status matter? Because certain academies have strict rules.

• IMA, INA, AFA: Only unmarried males allowed

• OTA (Men & Women): Both unmarried and specific categories of women (like issueless widows) are eligible

Final Year Students — Are You Eligible?

Yes, you can apply if you’re in your final year of graduation. But:

• You must submit proof of passing before the SSB interview.

• No backlogs or delays accepted.

Disqualifications You Must Know

• Criminal Records: Candidates with convictions are disqualified.

• Debarred by UPSC: If you’ve been banned from UPSC exams, you can’t apply.

CDS 2 2025 Eligibility for Women

OTA Entry and Criteria

Women can apply only for OTA, and must be:

• Unmarried OR

• Widowed (without children) OR

• Divorced (without children)

Opportunities for Women Candidates

• Short Service Commission (SSC) in Non-Technical roles

• Great opportunity to serve and grow within the Army

Documents Required During Application

What to Keep Ready

• Class 10 & 12 certificates

• Graduation certificates

• Passport-size photograph

• Scanned signature

• Photo ID proof

Mistakes to Avoid

• Wrong DOB entry

• Spelling errors in name

• Uploading blurry photos

CDS 2 2025 Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit upsc.gov.in

2. Click on CDS 2 2025 Notification

3. Fill Part I Registration

4. Complete Part II Registration

5. Upload Documents

6. Pay Exam Fees

7. Submit and take a printout

Things to Check Before Submitting

• Double-check academic details

• Ensure image quality

• Cross-check exam center

Role of Shield Defence Academy in Your CDS Journey

At Shield Defence Academy, we don’t just teach—we transform aspirants into officers. From conceptual clarity to mock interviews, we prepare you inside out.

Expert Coaching

• Experienced mentors

• SSB-focused sessions

• Current affairs boosters

Results That Speak

• Consistent selection records

• High success rate

• Personal mentorship till success

Tips from Shield Defence Academy for Aspirants

Preparation Hacks

• Focus on NCERT basics

• Practice previous years’ papers

• Join mock test series

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t ignore English and GK

• Manage time wisely

• Keep physical fitness in check

Conclusion as eligible for CDS 2 2025

So, are you eligible for CDS 2 2025? If you’ve ticked off the right boxes, congratulations—you’re already halfway there. The rest is all about smart preparation, right guidance, and consistent effort. At Shield Defence Academy, we’re always ready to walk this journey with you. Start now. Don’t wait.

FAQs

Q1. Can a final-year student apply for CDS 2 2025?
Yes, provided you can submit proof of passing before the SSB interview.

Q2. What is the age limit for CDS 2 2025 for women?
For women (OTA), the age should be between 19 and 25 years.

Q3. Is engineering mandatory for the Indian Naval Academy?
Yes, you need to have a degree in Engineering to apply for INA.

Q4. Can I wear glasses in the CDS medical exam?
Depends on the academy. AFA has stricter vision requirements than IMA or OTA.

Q5. How can Shield Defence Academy help in my CDS prep?
From written exam prep to SSB guidance, they offer complete coaching support and a proven track record.