CDS vs NDA: Which is Better Option

If it’s your ambition to become part of the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force, you very likely have already been informed about the CDS and NDA. The two are common defence tests carried out by UPSC, but students frequently get mixed up about them.

This blog will make things very clear and easy for you, just like a school or college student would appreciate, as that is the easiest language to use while explaining the difference between CDS and NDA.

What is an NDA?

NDA (National Defence Academy) is a stepping stone for students willing to join the military after high school.

This examination is held two times a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). 

NDA has these options for joining:

• Indian Army
• Indian Navy
• Indian Air Force

Selected applicants then proceed to the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla (Pune) for training.

In the end, they will go to the different academies according to their choice and training:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun – for the Army
• Naval Academy, Goa – for Navy
• Air Force Academy, Hyderabad – for Air Force

NDA Exam Pattern

The NDA exam consists of two papers:

• Mathematics: 300 Marks
• General Ability Test (GAT): 600 Marks
• Total Marks: 900 (Written Test)
• Followed by SSB Interview (900 Marks)

What is CDS?

CDS (Combined Defence Services) is another examination that is conducted by the UPSC, but it is limited to graduate students who have finished college or are in their last year.

By means of CDS, the selected students can get admission into the following:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA)
• Indian Naval Academy (INA)
• Air Force Academy (AFA)
• Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – for men and women alike

Candidates undergo training to become officers in the Indian Armed Forces after passing the CDS written exam and SSB Interview.

CDS Exam Pattern

For IMA, INA, and AFA:

• English: 100 Marks
• General Knowledge: 100 Marks
• Elementary Mathematics: 100 Marks

For OTA (Officers Training Academy):

• English: 100 Marks
• General Knowledge: 100 Marks

NDA vs CDS: Key Differences

Here’s a simple table to understand the difference between NDA and CDS clearly:

Can Girls Apply for NDA and CDS?

Yes!

The admission of female candidates is now open to both NDA and CDS.

• Females can take the NDA exam after their 12th-grade completion.
• Females, primarily for OTA (Short Service Commission), are also permitted to appear for CDS.

Thus, new avenues have been created for women to take military service in the country with honour.

When Are NDA and CDS Exams Conducted?

Both exams are conducted twice a year by UPSC.

Final Thoughts

The CDS and NDA are both excellent methods to become an officer in the Indian Armed Forces. 

• If you are in school, then start preparing for NDA. 
• If you are in college, then focus on CDS.

Read More: 

How to Join the Indian Army After 12th for Females

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the main difference between CDS vs NDA?
   NDA is for students after Class 12, while CDS is for graduates who have completed their college degree.
2. Who conducts NDA and CDS exams?
   Both the NDA and CDS exams are conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
3. What is the age limit for CDS vs NDA?
   For NDA, the age limit is 16.5 to 19.5 years; for CDS, it is 19 to 25 years.
4. Can girls apply for the NDA and CDS exams?
   Yes, both NDA and CDS now allow female candidates to apply and serve in the Indian Armed Forces.
5. Which exam is tougher, NDA or CDS?
   CDS is slightly tougher because it is at the graduate level, while NDA is based on Class 12 subjects.
6. How many times are the NDA and CDS exams held in a year?
   UPSC conducts both NDA and CDS exams twice every year, in February/April and September.
7. Which is better for a defence career, NDA or CDS?
   Both are excellent; NDA offers early entry after school, while CDS allows entry after graduation.