The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is the starting point for all those candidates who want to build their career through the Indian Armed Forces. However, there is something important which you need to know about eligibility criteria and how to go about applying to this fascinating profession before we proceed. Hence, it is the need to demystify these details for the future CDS 2024 applicants.

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CDS 2024 Eligibility Criteria:

The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) sets the CDS Eligibility Criteria. Here are some of the important factors that determine eligibility:

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen or have fulfilment of certain conditions as per Nepal/Bhutan/Tibetan citizens.
• Age Limit: Varies depending on the academy selected:
• Indian Military Academy (IMA) & Indian Naval Academy (INA): 19-24 years (as of January 1, 2024)
• Air Force Academy (AFA): 20-24 years (as of January 1, 2024)
• Officers' Training Academy (OTA) (Women Only): 20-25 years (as of January 1, 2024)
• Educational Qualification: These vary from one academy to another:
• IMA & OTA: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university.
• INA & AFA: Bachelor of Engineering from a recognized university (with Physics and Mathematics at +2 level for AFA).
• Candidates in their final year of graduation are also eligible to apply.
• Marital Status: For IMA, INA and AFA, only unmarried candidates are eligible. OTA allows unmarried females, widows who haven't remarried and divorcees who haven't remarried (with necessary documents).
• Physical Fitness: As per the notification of UPSC, applicants must meet specific physical standards.

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CDS 2024 Application Process:

After the official notification is released by UPSC, the application process usually starts. The following is a simplified flow:

• Registration– Visit https://upsc.gov.in/, the official website for UPSC and register yourself
• Online Application Form – Fill out the online application form carefully, providing accurate details.
• Upload Documents- Scanned copies of required documents like educational certificates, age proof, and others should be uploaded.
• Fee Payment: Pay the application fee through online using the available payment methods.
• Submit Application– The duly filled-in application form must be submitted before the last date.

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Preparing for the CDS Exam:

Once you've ensured your eligibility and applied, it's time to start preparing. Utilize various resources like NCERT books, CDS previous year question papers, and recommended study materials. It is highly recommended that you practice using the CDS mock test series. Therefore, looking for a CDS mock test online or a CDS test series can really help you in this regard. These CDS free mock tests simulate the actual exam format and difficulty level, helping you identify strengths, weaknesses, and time management skills. Start by looking for CDS mock tests so as to have a feeling of how they are before going into paid ones.

By understanding these eligibility criteria, following the application process and making use of effective preparation strategies such as using CDS mock tests; definitely you will find yourself cracking the CDS 2024 examination thereby establishing yourself well into a fulfilling career in Indian Armed Forces.