How To Apply For Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2025

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2025. The notification has described the application process for the CDS (I) examination in detail, through the official website of UPSC. Here is a step-by-step process on how to apply for the UPSC CDS (I) 2025 Examination, based on the official notification released on 11 December 2024.

1. Application Timeline

• Notification Release Date: 11 December 2024.
• Online Application Period: 11 December 2024 and closes in 31 December 2024.
• Withdrawal of Application: A provision to withdraw applications is available for a specified period, as per the UPSC notification.

2. Application Process

The application process involves the following steps:

Step 1: Registration

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

1. Navigate to the “Examinations” section and click on the CDS (I) 2025 Examination link.
2. Select the Online Application for Various Examinations of UPSC (ORA) option.
3. Complete the One Time Registration (OTR) if you have not registered previously.

Step 2: Part-I Registration

1. Fill in personal details such as:
   • Name (as per matriculation certificate)
   • Date of Birth
   • Father’s Name and Mother’s Name
   • Nationality, Gender, and Marital Status
   • Educational qualifications
2. Select your preferences for academies:
   • Indian Military Academy (IMA)
   • Indian Naval Academy (INA)
   • Air Force Academy (AFA)
   • Officers Training Academy (OTA)
3. Provide a valid email ID and phone number for communication.
4. Check all details thoroughly before submitting the form.

Step 3: Part-II Registration

1. Fee Payment:
   • Amount: ₹200 for General/OBC candidates (no fee for SC/ST and female candidates).
   • Mode: Online (via debit/credit card, net banking) or cash (via e-challan in any SBI branch).
2. Upload Documents:
   • Recent passport-size photograph (in JPG format, size 20–300 KB).
   • Signature (in JPG format, size 20–300 KB).
   • Photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, etc.).
3. Agree to Declaration: Review the details and accept the declaration before final submission.

3. Application Withdrawal (Optional)

• Candidates who wish to withdraw their applications can do so during the withdrawal window provided by UPSC.
• Visit the same portal and select the withdrawal option. Note that the application fee will not be refunded.

4. Post-Application Steps

1. Admit Card Download:
   • Admit cards will be available on the UPSC website approximately 3 weeks before the examination date.
   • No hard copies will be sent.
2. Keep Documents Ready:
   • Print a copy of the application form for future reference.
   • Carry the same photo ID used during registration to the examination center.

5. Important Instructions

• Ensure the information provided matches the documents (e.g., date of birth, name spelling).
• Double-check uploaded documents for clarity and correctness.
• Submit the application before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
• Retain proof of fee payment (if applicable).