Timeline to Join via CDS Entry: From Exam to Commission

The process of joining the Indian Armed Forces via the combined defense services (CDS) entry involves a series of stages that can take up to 2.5 years to complete. From the initial written examination to receiving a commission, candidates face a well-defined journey. This article provides a detailed timeline and the steps involved in this process, ensuring clarity and preparation for aspiring candidates.

Introduction to CDS Entry Process

The CDS examination is a comprehensive assessment for individuals seeking a career in the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force through the National Defense Academy (NDA). This journey is not just about acing an exam but involves multiple stages, including written tests, selection board interviews (SSB), medical examinations, and culminates in joining the respective service.

The CDS Examination and Its Timeline

The timeline for the CDS examination for the second entry (CDS 2) of a given year can vary slightly, but generally follows a standard sequence. Below, we outline a typical timeline, referencing the CDSE 2 of 2019 as an example.

Example Timeline: CDSE 2 of 2019

Notification: Around September fortnight Exam: CDSE written around 17 November 2019 Result: Written exam results around 5th January 2020 SSB Call for AFA: Around 25th January 2020 SSB Call for IMA INA: Around mid February 2020 SSB Call for OTA: June 2020 Merit List for AFA, IMA, INA: 3rd week of June 2020 Reporting at Academy: 1st week of July around 7th-8th, approximately

Upon successful completion of the CDS written examination, candidates move on to the next stages, which include SSB interviews and medical examinations. The process is rigorous and competitive, and the final selection is based on the candidate's performance in all stages combined.

Typical Timeline and Key Dates

A typical timeline for the CDS entry process is as follows:

Last Date of Application: End of January or mid-February Exam Date: First half of April Results of Written Examination: By mid-June SSB Dates: July to October Merit List Prepared: By end of November Course Start: Early January Second Application Deadline: Same period, sometimes a month later

Notably, the SSB interviews for specific roles such as IMA, OTA, and INA take place during different months. For instance, the SSB interview for OTA usually occurs in April to June, while IMA and INA SSBs take place from January to March. The joining date for IMA is 1st July, and for OTA, it is 1st October.

Further Details

The process can be summarized as follows:

Written Examination: Typically held in November 1 to 20, with results announced in the beginning of January or late December. SSB Interview for IMA: Takes place at various SSB centers from January to March. Joining Date for IMA: 1st July for CDS 2. SSB Interview for OTA: Usually occurs from April to June. Joining Date for OTA: 1st October for CDS 2. SSB/AFSB for INA/AFA: Occurs from January to March. Joining Date for Both Academies: 1st July for CDS 2.

Following the SSB and medical evaluations, the final merit list is prepared and candidates are selected on merit. The training period is 18 months for non-technical entries, leading to the Passing-Out Parade, after which candidates are commissioned as officers in the respective services.

All the best to all aspiring candidates on their journey to a career in the Indian Armed Forces!

For further information and guidance, feel free to reach out to the respective recruitment officers or visit the official CDS website.

Vishal Kumar Verma