Comprehensive Guide to UPSC CDS Syllabus 2026

The UPSC CDS exam is a vital step for aspiring officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Scheduled for April 12, 2026, this guide provides an in-depth look at the syllabus, covering essential subjects like English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. Understanding the syllabus is crucial for success in the exam, which includes a rigorous selection process involving the SSB. This article breaks down the topics and preparation strategies needed to excel in the CDS exam, making it a must-read for candidates aiming for a career in the military.

By Ambika Singh Jan 10, 2026, 09:58 IST

Overview of UPSC CDS Syllabus 2026

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2026: The Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam is a prestigious pathway for those aspiring to become officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Conducted biannually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this examination allows candidates to pursue their dreams of serving in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The application window for CDS I 2026 has closed, and the examination is scheduled for April 12, 2026.

Importance of Understanding the Syllabus

Familiarity with the syllabus is essential for success in the initial phase of the CDS exam. For entry into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (IAF), candidates will face questions worth 100 marks each in English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. Conversely, the Officers Training Academy (OTA) focuses solely on English and General Knowledge.

Detailed UPSC CDS Syllabus 2026

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2026: Topic-wise Breakdown

Subject	Topics
English	Spotting Errors, Sentence Arrangement, Synonyms and Antonyms, Word Selection, Sentence Sequencing, Reading Comprehension, Word Order, Fill in the Blanks, Idioms and Phrases, Sentence Improvement, etc.
General Knowledge (GK)	Economics, Physics, Current Affairs, Politics, Chemistry, Sociology, History, Defence Awards, Geography, Environment, Sports, Biology, Culture, Books, Authors, etc.
Elementary Mathematics	Arithmetic: Number System, Fundamental Operations, Unitary Method, Time and Distance, Percentage, Simple and Compound Interest, Profit and Loss, Ratio and Proportion, Variation.
Elementary Number Theory	Prime and Composite Numbers, Tests of Divisibility, Multiples and Factors, H.C.F. and L.C.M., Logarithms, etc.
Algebra	Basic Operations, Quadratic Equations, Linear Equations, Set Language, Trigonometric Functions, etc.
Geometry	Lines and Angles, Properties of Triangles, Congruence, Similarity, Circle Properties, Mensuration, etc.

SSB Selection Process

Following the written examination, candidates will undergo the Services Selection Board (SSB) process, which consists of two stages. Those who pass Stage I will be invited to Stage II, which includes an interview, Group Testing Officer tasks, psychological assessments, and a conference. This comprehensive evaluation spans four days.