Home » Syllabus » UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025: Exam Pattern & Subject Wise Syllabus PDF Download

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025: Exam Pattern & Subject Wise Syllabus PDF Download

The UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025 covers key subjects like English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics, each with specific topics. The English section focuses on grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. General Knowledge includes current events, history, geography, and basic science. Mathematics covers areas such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics. Candidates can download the full UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025 in PDF format to ensure a thorough understanding of all topics. The CDS exam is highly competitive and includes two phases: a written exam and an SSB interview. To succeed, candidates must clear both stages by fully understanding the syllabus and preparing effectively for each subject.

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025
UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025 Summary

DataDetails
Conducting AuthorityThe Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam 2025 is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
Exam NameThe official name of the exam is the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2025.
Mode of ExamThe exam is held in an offline, written format, making it accessible to candidates across the nation.
Sections in ExamFor the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA), the exam has three sections. For Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), the exam consists of two sections.
Total MarksIMA, INA, and AFA exams carry a total of 300 marks, whereas OTA has 200 marks.
Nature of the PaperThe paper is objective-type, which means it has multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for all sections.
LanguageThe CDS question papers are available in both Hindi and English for accessibility.
DurationEach section of the CDS Exam 2025 has a duration of 2 hours to complete.
Official Websitehttps://upsc.gov.in/

The CDS Syllabus 2025 will be released along with the official CDS 1 2025 Notification PDF on December 11, 2024, on the UPSC website. This comprehensive syllabus, covering topics for the IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA exams, helps candidates prepare effectively.

UPSC CDS 2025 Syllabus PDF Download

Understanding the CDS Syllabus 2025 is very important for all candidates. With this knowledge, they can set clear goals and create an effective plan for studying. To begin with, the CDS exam covers three main subjects: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. For those applying to the Indian Naval Academy, Indian Military Academy, or Air Force Academy, it’s essential to prepare for all three.

However, for candidates aiming to join the Officers’ Training Academy, the focus is only on English and General Knowledge. Because passing the written exam is a must to qualify for the SSB Interview, knowing the exact syllabus topics helps candidates stay organized. For ease, a downloadable PDF of the UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025 is available in this article, including full details on each subject like General Knowledge, English, and Mathematics.

Click Here to Download UPSC CDS Syllabus PDF

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025 for English

TopicDescription
Reading ComprehensionAnalyze and interpret passages
Spotting ErrorsIdentify grammatical mistakes
Fill in the BlanksComplete sentences with appropriate words
Synonyms & AntonymsLearn word meanings and opposites
Idioms & PhrasesUnderstand commonly used expressions
Sentence ArrangementOrganize jumbled sentences in the correct order
Ordering of WordsArrange words to form meaningful sentences
Sentence ImprovementCorrect and improve sentences

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025 for Mathematics : Arithmetic & Number Theory

Arithmetic:

  • Number System: Understanding natural numbers, integers, rational numbers, and real numbers.
  • Fundamental Operations: Includes addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, square roots, and decimal fractions.
  • Unitary Method: Topics include time and work, time and distance, and percentages.
  • Applications: Covers real-life applications like profit and loss, simple and compound interest, ratio and proportion, and variation.

Elementary Number Theory:

  • Division Algorithm: Basics of dividing numbers into equal parts.
  • Prime and Composite Numbers: Identifying and understanding prime and composite numbers.
  • Divisibility Tests: Rules for testing divisibility by numbers like 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, and 11.
  • Multiples and Factors: Knowing how numbers are composed and factorized.
  • Factorization Theorem: Essential concept in breaking down numbers into factors.
  • H.C.F. and L.C.M.: Calculating the highest common factor and least common multiple.
  • Euclidean Algorithm: A method to find the H.C.F.
  • Logarithms: Learning the basics of logs with base 10, including rules and table usage.

UPSC CDS Syllabus Mathematics: Algebra & Trigonometry

Algebra:

  • Basic Operations: Understanding operations with numbers and simple factors.
  • Remainder Theorem: Key theorem in algebra.
  • Theory of Polynomials: Relation between roots and coefficients, focusing on real roots only.
  • Quadratic Equations: Solutions of quadratic equations.
  • Simultaneous Linear Equations: Solving equations in two variables through analytical and graphical methods.
  • Set Language and Notation: Basics of sets and their representation.
  • Rational Expressions and Conditional Identities: Simplifying expressions and understanding identities.
  • Laws of Indices: Important laws for powers and exponents.

Trigonometry:

  • Basic Trigonometric Functions: Includes sine, cosine, and tangent for angles between 0° and 90°.
  • Standard Angles: Knowing values of sin, cos, and tan for 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°.
  • Trigonometric Identities: Simple identities to solve problems.
  • Height and Distance: Application of trigonometry in measuring heights and distances.

CDS Mathematics Syllabus: Geometry, Mensuration & Statistics

Geometry:

  • Plane and Solid Geometry: Study of flat and 3D shapes.
  • Lines and Angles: Basic properties and theorems.
  • Triangles: Properties of angles, sides, congruence, and similarity.
  • Quadrilaterals: Study of rectangles, parallelograms, and squares.
  • Circles: Understanding properties of circles, tangents, and normals.
  • Loci: Basics of points in given conditions.

Mensuration:

  • Area and Perimeter: Calculating areas of squares, rectangles, triangles, and circles.
  • Volumes and Surface Area: Finding the volume and surface area of 3D objects like cones, cylinders, cuboids, and spheres.

Statistics:

  • Data Collection and Tabulation: Basics of gathering and organizing data.
  • Graphical Representation: Drawing and interpreting frequency polygons, bar charts, histograms, and pie charts.
  • Central Tendency: Calculating mean, median, and mode for data sets.

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025 for General Knowledge

For General Knowledge, candidates should stay updated on current events and have a basic understanding of geography, history, and general science. Focus on recent developments in India and worldwide.

TopicSub-Topics
Indian HistoryImportant events and figures
Political ScienceBasic principles and Indian governance
EconomicsKey economic concepts and Indian economy
GeographyPhysical and political geography
EnvironmentCurrent environmental issues and conservation
General ScienceBasics of Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Current AffairsNational and international events, awards, books, and authors
Defense TopicsKey information on the Army, Navy, and Air Force

UPSC CDS Exam Pattern 2025

Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA):

SubjectDurationMaximum Marks
English2 hours100
General Knowledge2 hours100
Mathematics2 hours100
SSB Test/Interview5 days300

Officers’ Training Academy (OTA):

SubjectDurationMaximum Marks
English2 hours100
General Knowledge2 hours100
SSB Test/Interview5 days300

Important Instructions for CDS 2025 Exam Day

It is crucial to follow all instructions to ensure a smooth exam experience. Here are the essential instructions candidates must adhere to during the CDS exam:

  • Candidates must use only a black ballpoint pen for marking answers. Other writing instruments are not permitted, as they may interfere with the answer sheet’s readability.
  • Accurately fill out your center, subject, and exam booklet series (A, B, C, or D) on the answer sheet. Place your roll number and subject code in the designated areas at the top of the sheet.
  • Mark the correct CDS booklet series, subject code, and roll number within the provided circles on the answer sheet. Errors or omissions in encoding may lead to the answer sheet’s rejection.
  • Before starting, carefully inspect the test booklet for missing pages, unprinted sections, or any physical damage. Report any issues to the invigilator immediately and request a new booklet of the same series and subject.
  • Do not fold, damage, or make any stray marks on the answer sheet. Keep it neat and clear of any extraneous writing, especially on the reverse side.
  • Do not write your name or any personal information on the answer sheet, test booklet, or rough work sheet, as this can lead to disqualification.
  • If there are any mistakes while encoding or filling details, inform the invigilator immediately. An incomplete or incorrect answer sheet could result in score reduction or disqualification.
Other Article Links
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Admit Card 2024 Out, Download Your Hall Ticket now
NABARD Office Attendant Admit Card 2024 OUT: Download Your Hall Ticket Now
SIDBI Grade A Salary 2024: Assistant Manager Perks, Allowances & Career Opportunities
RRB NTPC Static GK MCQs 2024 (Part-6), Your Practice Partner

FAQs for UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025

Q1: What subjects are included in the UPSC CDS 2025 syllabus?
A: The syllabus covers English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics, with specific topics for each subject. For OTA, only English and General Knowledge are included.

Q2: What does the English section of the CDS exam test?
A: The English section tests grammar, vocabulary, comprehension skills, and the candidate’s ability to effectively understand and use English.

Q3: What are the main topics in the CDS Mathematics syllabus?
A: Mathematics includes arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, mensuration, and statistics.

Q4: What areas are covered under the General Knowledge section?
A: General Knowledge includes current events, history, geography, science, environment, and basic Indian political and economic topics.

Q5: How is the CDS exam conducted?
A: The CDS exam is an offline, written exam with multiple-choice questions in English and Hindi.

Q6: What is the exam pattern for IMA, INA, and AFA?
A: For IMA, INA, and AFA, the exam includes three subjects: English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics, with each section carrying 100 marks.

Q7: How is the CDS exam pattern different for OTA?
A: OTA candidates only take the English and General Knowledge sections, each worth 100 marks.

Q8: How long is each section of the CDS exam?
A: Each section of the CDS exam has a duration of 2 hours.

author avatar
Nabarun Ghosh
Nabarun Ghosh, born in the City of Joy Kolkata, is a standout figure in journalism and content creation. He holds two important roles at Karmasandhan.com: Chief Editor and Content Writer. Nabarun is known for his creativity, intelligence, and strong work ethic.

1 thought on “UPSC CDS Syllabus 2025: Exam Pattern & Subject Wise Syllabus PDF Download”

  1. Dear sir,
    My son is studying Engineering at Bangalore. 3rd year in Mechanical engineering
    So he is eligible for applying.
    Please advise and reply sir.
    Thank you.

    Reply

Leave a Comment

WhatsApp Join Group
Telegram Join Group