CDS Syllabus 2025, Detailed Subject-Wise Breakdown

CDS Syllabus 2025: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) announced the Combined Defence Services (CDS 2) Notification 2025 on May 28, 2025. Understanding the CDS syllabus is vital for candidates aiming to excel in the exam. The detailed CDS 2025 syllabus outlines the subjects and topics that candidates need to focus on for effective preparation.

Aspirants seeking to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) can refer to the CDS syllabus 2025 to plan their studies strategically.

CDS Syllabus 2025

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is among India’s most competitive exams, demanding unwavering dedication from candidates to clear each stage of the CDS selection process. The examination includes two critical phases: the Written Examination and the SSB Interview. To qualify, candidates must excel in both stages.

A clear understanding of the CDS syllabus is crucial for performing well in the CDS Exam 2025. The CDS 1 2025 Examination acts as a pathway for aspirants looking to join the prestigious Indian Armed Forces.

To score well, candidates should thoroughly study the detailed CDS syllabus, which outlines the subjects and topics required for success. Refer to this comprehensive guide to get an in-depth understanding of the CDS Exam Syllabus 2025 and prepare effectively for the CDS 1 2025 Exam.

CDS Syllabus 2025 Overview

Below is an overview of the CDS 2025 syllabus to help candidates prepare effectively.

CDS Syllabus 2025 Overview
Parameters	Details
Mode of exam	Offline
Stages of exam	Written Exam SSB Interview
Number of sections	Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA) – 3 Sections Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – 2 Sections
Exam subjects	English General Knowledge Elementary Mathematics
Nature of questions	Objective-type
Duration of test	Two hours for each subject
Language of question paper	English and Hindi

CDS English Syllabus 2025 

This section evaluates the candidate’s knowledge of the English language. Below is the detailed syllabus for the CDS English exam.

CDS English Syllabus 2025
Section	Topics
Vocabulary	Basic Grammar Idioms & Phrases Synonyms & Antonyms Sentence Completion, etc.
Reading Passage	Reading Comprehension Solving Para Jumbles Understanding the main idea and supporting details Answering questions based on the passage, etc.
Grammar	Error Spotting Sentence Improvement Cloze test Active and passive voice Direct and indirect speech Transformation of sentences, etc.

Prepare effectively for the English section with our expert-designed test series. Practicing these sets will not only enhance your skills but also help you assess your current preparation level.

CDS Maths Syllabus 2025 

The CDS Mathematics syllabus covers key topics like arithmetic, trigonometry, geometry, measurements, statistics, and more. To perform well, candidates need consistent practice and focused effort. 

Balancing accuracy and speed is crucial for completing questions within the given time. For a detailed breakdown, refer to the table outlining the Mathematics syllabus for the CDS 1 2025 Exam.

CDS Maths Syllabus 2025
Topic	Description
Number System	Natural numbers Integers Rational and real numbers. Fundamental operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), Square roots Decimal fractions Unitary method Time and distance Time and work Percentages Applications to simple and compound interest Profit and loss Ratio and proportion Variation
Elementary Number Theory	Division algorithm Prime and composite numbers Tests of divisibility by 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, and 11 Multiples and factors Factorization theorem H.C.F. and L.C.M. Euclidean algorithm Logarithms to base 10, laws of logarithms Use of logarithmic tables
Algebra	Basic operations Simple factors Remainder theorem HCF & LCM Theory of polynomials Solutions of quadratic equations Relations between roots and coefficients Simultaneous linear equations (analytical and graphical solutions) Simultaneous linear inequations in two variables and their solutions Practical problems involving equations and inequalities inequalities in two variables, or quadratic equations in one variable. Set notation and set language. Rational expressions and conditional identities. Laws of indices.
Trigonometry	Sine x, cosine x, Tan x when 0° < x < 90° , Values of sin x, cos x & tan x, for x = 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° & 90°. Simple trigonometric identities. Use of trigonometric tables. Simple cases of heights and distances.
Geometry	Lines and angles Plane and plane figures Theorems on properties of angles at a point Parallel lines Sides and angles of a triangle Congruency of triangles Similar triangles Concurrence of medians and altitudes Properties of angles Sides and diagonals of parallelograms, rectangles, and squares, circles and their properties including tangents, normals, and loci
Mensuration	Areas of parallelograms, squares, rectangles, triangles and circles. Areas of figures can be split up into these figures (Field Book), lateral surface and volume of right circular cones and cylinders, Surface area and volume of cuboids, and surface area and volume of spheres.
Statistics	Collection and tabulation of statistical data Graphical representation frequency polygons Histograms Bar charts Pie charts etc Measures of central tendency

CDS General Knowledge Syllabus 2025 

The General Knowledge section of CDS 1 2025 focuses on current affairs and general awareness, covering everyday observations and experiences. It also includes basic scientific concepts that an educated individual should be familiar with, even without specialized science training. 

Candidates should also expect questions on geography and Indian history, which can be answered by those who are well-prepared, without the need for in-depth extra study.

CDS Syllabus 2024 for GK
Current Affairs	Events of national and international importance Sports, awards, and honors Books and authors Major developments in the fields of politics, economics, and social issues.
History	Ancient Medieval and modern Indian history Indian national movement Growth of nationalism.
Geography	Physical, Social and economic aspects of geography Indian geography and world geography.
Indian Polity and Governance	Constitution of India Political system Panchayati Raj Public Policy Rights Issues, etc.
Economic and Social Development	Sustainable Development Poverty Inclusion Demographics Social Sector Initiatives, etc.
Science and Technology	Developments in the field of science and technology Space technology Biotechnology Computer technology.
Environmental Ecology and Biodiversity	Conservation Environmental pollution and degradation Environmental impact assessment Climate change.
Defence and Security Issues	Current events related to national security Internal and external threats Role of Armed Forces.

CDS Syllabus 2025 for OTA

The OTA syllabus consists of two sections: English and General Knowledge. Unlike other CDS exams, the OTA exam does not include a Mathematics section. A detailed, topic-wise syllabus for OTA has been provided for candidates. Aspirants preparing for the OTA exam can review the syllabus below on this page to guide their preparation.

CDS OTA English Syllabus 2025

The English syllabus for the CDS OTA exam is outlined below. It is similar to the syllabi for IMA, INA, and AFA, but candidates should review it carefully to ensure they are fully prepared for the specific requirements of the OTA exam.

• Sentence Arrangement
• Synonyms and Antonyms
• Jumbled Words
• Idioms and Phrases
• Ordering Sentences
• Arranging Words
• Fill in the Blanks

CDS OTA General Knowledge Syllabus 2025

The General Ability Test (GAT) assesses candidates’ knowledge of various subjects and current events, as well as their social and academic awareness. Below is the detailed CDS OTA General Knowledge syllabus that candidates should review for better preparation:

• Current Affairs
• History
• Polity
• Geography
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Sociology
• Defence Awareness
• Sports and Culture
• Environmental Studies

CDS Exam Pattern 2025

The CDS exam pattern, established by the UPSC, is designed for candidates applying to IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. The exam is conducted offline (pen-and-paper mode). Both Mathematics and General Knowledge question papers are bilingual, available in Hindi and English. The written exam consists solely of objective-type questions.

For IMA, INA, and AFA admission, the written exam includes three sections: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. The total marks for this exam are 300, and it lasts six hours.

For OTA admission, the exam comprises two sections: English and General Awareness. The exam duration is four hours, and the total marks are 200.

Candidates will lose 1/3 of the marks for every incorrect answer (negative marking). After qualifying the written exam, candidates are called for the SSB interview.

The CDS exam pattern for the written test is as follows:

CDS Exam Pattern for IMA, INA and AFA
Subject	Duration (In hours)	Maximum marks
English	2	100
General Knowledge	2	100
Elementary Mathematics	2	100

 

CDS Exam Pattern for OTA
Subject	Duration	Maximum marks
English	2 hours	100
General Knowledge	2 hours	100

Best Books for CDS Syllabus 2025

The following is a list of the top books for each subject to help you prepare for the CDS exam:

English Language Books for CDS
To excel in the English section, candidates can refer to these books:

• Objective General English by RS Aggarwal
• Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
• High School English Grammar and Composition

Books for General Knowledge and Current Affairs
Staying updated on current events is key. Regularly reading newspapers will help. Here are some books to guide your preparation:

• Manorama Yearbook
• Lucent’s General Knowledge
• Competition in Focus (Half-Yearly and Yearly editions)

CDS Elementary Mathematics Books
For the Mathematics section, consider these books for thorough preparation:

• Mathematics for CDS by RS Aggarwal
• Quantitative Aptitude for Examinations by RS Aggarwal

CDS Syllabus 2025 Important Topics

Candidates preparing for the CDS exam should focus on the following key areas to maximize their score in less time. Review the important topics in the CDS 2025 syllabus:

• General Knowledge: Focus on current affairs, Indian polity, history, general science, geography, and more.
• Mathematics: Key topics include profit and loss, simple and compound interest, mensuration, trigonometry, percentages, lines, and angles.
• English: Practice synonyms and antonyms, jumbled sentences, reading comprehension, fill-in-the-blanks, idioms and phrases, and sentence substitution.

CDS Syllabus 2025 FAQs

What is the CDS 2025 exam pattern? 

The CDS 2025 exam includes a written test and an SSB interview, with sections on English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics (for IMA, INA, AFA) or General Knowledge and English (for OTA).

What subjects are covered in the CDS General Knowledge section? 

The General Knowledge section includes topics like current affairs, Indian history, geography, Indian polity, economics, science, and technology.

Is there a negative marking in the CDS 2025 exam? 

Yes, candidates will lose 1/3 of the marks for every incorrect answer in the CDS 2025 exam.

What books are recommended for the CDS English preparation? 

Recommended books include Objective General English by RS Aggarwal, Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis, and High School English Grammar and Composition.

Does the CDS 2025 syllabus include a Mathematics section for OTA? 

No, the OTA syllabus only includes English and General Knowledge; the Mathematics section is not part of the OTA exam.