The Combined Defence Services Examination that is CDS is one of the most prestigious and tough defence exams of India. This exam is conducted by the UPSC for the purpose of selecting officers for the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. To clear this exam confidently, aspirants must have a clear understanding of the CDS exam syllabus 2026 and the pattern of exam. Which varies slightly depending on the academy applied for like OTA, IMA, INA or AFA. In this detailed guide by Shield Defence Academy, the best CDS coaching in Lucknow. We explain the CDS syllabus in a simple, structured and practical manner to help aspirants prepare smartly and strategically.
What Is the CDS Exam?
The CDS exam is conducted twice a year and consists of –
- A written examination
- Followed by the SSB Interview
- Medical exam
To understand the CDS exam syllabus is the first step towards building a strong preparation plan and securing your success.
CDS Academies and Their Exam Structure
| Academy | Training Institution | Written Papers |
| OTA | Officers Training Academy ,Chennai | English + GK |
| IMA | Indian Military Academy, Dehradun | English + GK + Maths |
| INA | Indian Naval Academy | English + GK + Maths |
| AFA | Air Force Academy | English + GK + Maths |
Overview of CDS Written Exam Pattern
| Paper | Marks | Duration |
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
OTA candidates appear for only English and GK papers.
CDS Exam Syllabus , Subject Wise Explanation
Let us break down the CDS exam syllabus subject by subject for better clarity.
1. English Syllabus for CDS
The English paper tests your understanding of the language, grammar and comprehension skills.
Important Topics covered –
- Reading comprehension
- Vocabulary including synonyms and antonyms
- Sentence improvement
- Spotting errors
- Idioms and phrases
- Fill in the blanks
Preparation Tips for aspirants –
Read newspapers daily
Practice previous year papers
Improve vocabulary regularly
Shield Defence Academy the best defence coaching in Lucknow, emphasizes daily reading and mock tests to strengthen English scores.
2. General Knowledge Syllabus for CDS
The GK paper checks your awareness of current events and general studies.
Static GK Topics –
- History including Modern, Medieval, Ancient
- Geography covering India and World
- Polity and Constitution
- Economics , Basic Concepts
- Defence Awareness
Current Affairs
- National and international events
- Defence news
- Government schemes
- Sports and awards
A strong command of aspirants over GK becomes very essential to clear the CDS exam syllabus effectively.
3. Mathematics Syllabus for CDS (IMA, INA, AFA)
Maths is compulsory for IMA, INA and AFA candidates and is based on Class 10 level concepts.
Important Maths Topics
- Arithmetic (Percentage, Profit and Loss)
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Geometry
- Mensuration
- Statistics
Key Strategy –
Focus on accuracy
Practice formulas daily
Attempt mock tests regularly
Shield Defence Academy, the top CDS coaching in Lucknow, provides Maths shortcut techniques to save time in the exam.
CDS Exam Syllabus, OTA vs IMA/INA/AFA
| Aspect | OTA | IMA / INA / AFA |
| English | Yes | Yes |
| GK | Yes | Yes |
| Maths | No | Yes |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate | Moderate to High |
Understanding this difference in the CDS Exam Syllabus helps aspirants choose the right academy.
SSB Interview After Written Exam
Clearing the written exam is only half the journey. Candidates must then face the 5-day SSB Interview, which tests personality and leadership qualities.
SSB Includes
- Screening Test
- Psychology Tests
- GTO Tasks
- Personal Interview
- Conference
Shield Defence Academy, the defence coaching in Lucknow, offers complete SSB training along with written exam preparation.
Why Many Aspirants Fail to Clear CDS?
Incomplete syllabus coverage
Ignoring weak subjects
Lack of mock test practice
Poor time management
Mastering the CDS exam syllabus with expert guidance is the key to success.
How Shield Defence Academy Helps You Crack CDS?
Our CDS coaching mainly highlights –
- Complete syllabus coverage
- Subject-wise expert faculty
- Weekly mock tests
- SSB-focused preparation
- Personalized mentorship
We do not just teach the syllabus, but we prepare officers.
Why Choose Shield Defence Academy for CDS Preparation?
- Proven results in CDS and SSB
- Structured study plans
- Real exam level practice
- Dedicated doubt-clearing sessions
Final Preparation Tips for CDS Aspirants
Follow a fixed timetable
Revise regularly
Solve previous year papers
Stay physically and mentally fit
A disciplined approach towards the CDS exam syllabus can turn your defence dream into reality.
Conclusion
The CDS exam syllabus is well defined but demands consistency, clarity, and the right strategy. Whether your target is OTA, IMA, INA, or AFA, having an understanding of the syllabus and preparing accordingly is non-negotiable. With expert mentorship, structured preparation, and continuous assessment, Shield Defence Academy, the best CDS coaching in India, empowers aspirants to crack CDS with confidence and become future officers of the Indian Armed Forces.
