Quick Answer
For CDS 1 2027, candidates need a graduate degree and must meet academy-specific age and subject rules: IMA 19–24 (any degree, unmarried), INA 19–24 (engineering, unmarried), AFA 19–23 (degree with Physics & Maths at 10+2 or engineering, unmarried), and OTA 19–25 (any degree; men and women). Candidates must meet the physical and medical standards.
Meeting the CDS 1 2027 eligibility criteria is the first gate — degree, age and academy rules must all match. This guide breaks them down academy-by-academy for the 2027 cycle. For dates and vacancies see the CDS 1 2027 notification guide.
Age Limit & Education (Academy-wise)
| Academy | Age | Education | Marital Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMA (Army) | 19–24 | Degree of a recognised university (any stream) | Unmarried |
| INA (Navy) | 19–24 | Engineering degree | Unmarried |
| AFA (Air Force) | 19–23 (up to 25 with valid CPL) | Degree with Physics & Maths at 10+2, or Engineering | Unmarried |
| OTA — SSC Men | 19–25 | Degree of a recognised university | Married/unmarried as per rules |
| OTA — SSC Women | 19–25 | Degree of a recognised university | As per rules |
Final-year students can apply provided they submit proof of graduation by the date specified by UPSC. Exact birth-date windows are confirmed in the official notification.
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A candidate must be a citizen of India, or a subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came before 1 January 1962, or a person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries — as per UPSC rules.
Physical & Medical Standards
Candidates must be in good physical and mental health, free from disease or disability likely to interfere with duties. Minimum height, weight-for-age, chest expansion, eyesight and dental standards apply and vary by service — the Air Force has the strictest vision standards. Women OTA candidates meet the corresponding female standards. See our detailed CDS physical & medical standards guide and confirm against the notification.
OTA for Women
Women graduates can apply for the Officers Training Academy (OTA) through CDS for a Short Service Commission. See our dedicated CDS OTA for women guide, then start with the exam pattern & syllabus.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age limit for CDS 1 2027?
Roughly 19–24 for IMA and INA, 19–23 for AFA (up to 25 with a valid CPL), and 19–25 for OTA. Exact birth-date limits are confirmed in the UPSC notification.
What is the educational qualification for CDS 1 2027?
A graduate degree is required. IMA accepts any degree; INA needs an engineering degree; AFA needs a degree with Physics and Maths at 10+2 or an engineering degree; OTA accepts any degree.
Can final-year students apply for CDS 1 2027?
Yes, provided they submit proof of graduation by the date specified by UPSC in the notification.
Can women apply for CDS 1 2027?
Yes, women graduates can apply for the OTA (Short Service Commission) through CDS.
Is CDS only for unmarried candidates?
IMA, INA and AFA require candidates to be unmarried. OTA has separate rules that allow certain married candidates; confirm in the notification.
