The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS II) 2025, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is one of the most prestigious opportunities for graduates aspiring to serve in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The exam acts as a gateway for admission into esteemed institutions like the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Each paper in CDS—English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics—is designed to assess specific skills essential for a career in defense services. Whether you’re targeting OTA or the full tri-academy track (IMA, INA, AFA), having a deep understanding of the syllabus helps you align your preparation smartly.
CDS II 2025 Syllabus Overview
The CDS II 2025 examination comprises three papers:
- English – For all academies.
- General Knowledge – For all academies.
- Elementary Mathematics – For IMA, INA, and AFA only.
📝 Exam Structure
| Paper | Duration | Maximum Marks | Required For |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 2 hours | 100 | All academies |
| General Knowledge | 2 hours | 100 | All academies |
| Elementary Mathematics | 2 hours | 100 | IMA, INA, AFA |
English Syllabus
The English paper assesses the candidate’s proficiency in the English language. The syllabus includes:
- Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, and Word Substitution.
- Grammar: Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement, and Transformation of Sentences.
- Comprehension: Reading Comprehension and Para Jumbles.
- Usage: Cloze Test and Sentence Completion.
General Knowledge Syllabus
The General Knowledge paper evaluates the candidate’s awareness of current events and general science. The syllabus encompasses:
- Current Affairs: National and International Events, Sports, Appointments, Awards, and Honours.
- History: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History, Indian National Movement.
- Geography: Physical, Social, and Economic aspects of Geography, including Indian and World Geography.
- Polity: Constitution of India, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues.
- Economics: Basic Economic Concepts, Economic Planning, and Economic Reforms.
- Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Environmental Ecology.
Elementary Mathematics Syllabus
The Elementary Mathematics paper is designed to test the candidate’s understanding of mathematical concepts. The syllabus includes:
- Arithmetic: Number Systems, Percentage, Profit and Loss, Simple and Compound Interest, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Ratio and Proportion.
- Algebra: Polynomials, Linear Equations, Quadratic Equations, and Inequalities.
- Geometry: Lines, Angles, Triangles, Circles, and Quadrilaterals.
- Trigonometry: Trigonometric Ratios, Heights and Distances.
- Statistics and Probability: Mean, Median, Mode, Probability, and Data Interpretation.
Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
- Mode of Examination: Offline (Pen and Paper-based).
- Type of Questions: Objective Type (Multiple Choice Questions).
- Marking Scheme: +1 mark for each correct answer; -0.33 marks for each incorrect answer.
- Total Marks: 300 for IMA, INA, and AFA; 200 for OTA.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | May 28, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 17, 2025 |
| Exam Date | September 14, 2025 |
Conclusion
Knowing the CDS II 2025 syllabus helps you prepare better for the exam. It shows you what topics to focus on in English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. If you follow the syllabus and study regularly, your chances of clearing the exam will improve. Stay focused, keep practicing, and give your best!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ans: The CDS II syllabus includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. However, only IMA, INA, and AFA candidates need to appear for all three papers. OTA candidates appear only for English and General Knowledge.
Ans: Yes, there is negative marking. For each incorrect answer, 1/3rd of the marks assigned to the question will be deducted.
Ans: The Mathematics paper is based on the Matriculation (10th standard) level. It includes basic arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics.
Ans: No. OTA (Officers Training Academy) candidates are not required to take the Mathematics paper. They only appear for the English and General Knowledge papers.
Ans: To prepare for the GK paper, focus on current affairs, history, geography, Indian polity, economics, and general science. Regularly read newspapers, government magazines, and follow reliable current affairs sources.