CDS Coaching in Chandigarh

When it comes to cracking the CDS exam, the first thing that comes to our mind is a good coaching institute. With the help of the best coaching institute, it becomes very easy to clear the CDS exam in a short time. Here, in the following article, we will discuss the best academy that provides the best CDS coaching in Chandigarh. Also, we will discuss all the important points related to the CDS examination. So read the complete article to get the full information about the exam. We will also share some preparation tips for the aspirants who are preparing for the exam.

If you aspire to serve the nation as a commissioned officer in the Indian Defence Forces, the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is the gateway to realizing your dreams. This grueling test demands unwavering dedication, strategic preparation, and expert guidance. In the vibrant city of Chandigarh, a plethora of coaching institutes cater to the needs of aspiring CDS candidates, promising to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to crack this highly competitive exam. However, amid the sea of options, finding the best CDS coaching in Chandigarh can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors that set the top-rated institutes apart, ensuring you embark on a journey that maximizes your chances of success.

IFA Defence Academy: The best institute for CDS coaching in Chandigarh

Are you looking for the best coaching institute for CDS coaching? Then you are at the right place. We at IFA Defence Academy provide the best CDS coaching in Chandigarh. At our academy, we have professional and experienced staff faculty that help our students in each and every manner. Also, we provide the latest and best study material to our students. The study material is created by our experienced team members. IFA Defence Academy is one of the top institutes in India for Defence exam preparation. Based in Chandigarh, we offer unmatched learning features. Our team of experienced professionals is passionate about transforming young students. We have a high success rate, with hundreds of success stories. Our trainers have industry experience and know how to train students effectively.

Why IFA Defence Academy for CDS coaching in Chandigarh?

At our IFA Defence Academy, we provide a lot of facilities to our students. Here are the reasons to choose IFA Defence Academy for the best CDS coaching in Chandigarh:

Comprehensive Study Material

The study material has been made by experts who know a lot about the exam. They looked at the latest trends and patterns to create the study material. It covers everything you need to know for the exam. It will help you understand the exam better and do well on it.

Quality Teaching

The IFA Defence Academy is home to a team of highly experienced and qualified professionals who possess a deep understanding of what it takes to bring out the best in a candidate. They are all experts in their fields and really want to help you learn. They have a special way of teaching that is different for each person so you can learn the way that’s best for you. They will explain things in a way you can understand and show you how to do things too. They have helped many people before and are good at it. They can help you too!

Weekly Mock Tests

We do tests every week to see how well our students are doing. This helps us find out what they’re good at and what they need more help with. We try to make the tests like the real exam so they can get used to it. We watch them while they do the test to make sure they follow the rules. We also use the test results to see how much they have improved and make sure we teach them better. The tests help them feel ready and not nervous for the real exam.

Personality Development

A special session on Interpersonal Skills is conducted every Sunday. Which includes a range of interactive activities such as group discussions, extempore speeches, debates, and more.

Special Attention To All Students

At our academy, we make sure to give each student special attention. We believe that every student is a genius in their own way, and we want to help them shine. Our teachers work hard to create a welcoming and supportive environment where all students feel valued and included. We do our best to help each student learn and grow, both academically and personally. We are proud to see our students achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

Highest Selection Rate

At IFA Defence Academy, we are proud to have one of the highest selection rates in the country. More than 60% of our candidates who have taken the written exams have succeeded.

CDS Exam Complete Details

The Union Public Service Commission organizes the CDS Examination to hire Commissioned Officers for various military academies in India. The CDS full form is Combined Defence Services. These academies include the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy. The exam is conducted to select eligible candidates who are capable of serving in these prestigious academies as officers.

How to become a CDS officer?

How to become CDS officer? This is the most asked question of the aspirants. So, here is your answer. To become a commissioned CDS officer, one needs to qualify for the Combined Defence Services Examination. This examination is designed to test the knowledge and aptitude of candidates in various areas such as general knowledge, English language, mathematics, and reasoning ability. It is a highly competitive exam, and only those who score well in all sections of the exam are considered for further selection rounds.

Once a candidate qualifies for the exam, he/she needs to undergo rigorous physical and medical tests to ensure that they are fit to serve in the military. Only those who pass these tests are selected for training in the academies mentioned above. The training is intense and rigorous, and candidates are trained in various aspects of military life such as leadership, discipline, and physical fitness.

After successfully completing the training, candidates are commissioned as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. They are responsible for leading their teams and carrying out various missions in service of the nation. As commissioned officers, they have a great deal of responsibility and are expected to serve their country with utmost dedication and loyalty.

CDS exam: Overview

• Name of exam: Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS)
• Conducted by: UPSC (Union Public Service Commission)
• Exam level: National-level
• Exam Conducts By the UPSC: Twice a year (April & September)
• Exam Mode: Offline (Pen-Paper based)
• Type of questions: Objective type
• Exam stages: 2 (Written exam and an SSB Interview)
• Language of question paper: Bilingual (English & Hindi both)
• Duration of the exam: 2 hours for each section of the exam
• Total Marks: INA, IMA, and AFA- 300, and OTA- 200
• Number of questions: Mathematics: 100, General English: 120, and General Knowledge: 120
• Number of papers: Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA): 3 (English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics)
• Officers’ Training Academy (OTA): 2 (General Knowledge & English)
• Total marks: Written Exam- INA, IMA, and AFA: 300, OTA: 200 & SSB Interview- INA, IMA, and AFA: 300, OTA: 200
• Negative Marking: Yes

Eligibility criteria for the CDS exam

To be eligible for CDS, candidates must meet certain requirements in terms of age, educational qualifications, and nationality. The eligibility criteria for the CDS exam vary for different courses and are as follows:

Nationality:

• The applicant must be a citizen of India
• A subject of Bhutan, or Nepal
• Tibetan refugees who came over to India before 01/01/1962 are also eligible.

Age Limit for CDS Exam:

• For Indian Naval Academy: 19-24 Years
• For Air Force Academy: 20-24 Years
• For Officers’ Training Academy (Men): 19-25 Years
• For Officers’ Training Academy (Women): 19-25 Years

Academic qualification for CDS exam:

• For Indian Military Academy: Graduation Degree
• For Indian Naval Academy: B.E/B.Tech (10+2 with Physics & Maths)
• For Air Force Academy: Graduation, B.E/B.Tech (10+2 with Physics &Maths)
• For Officers’ Training Academy (Men & Women): Graduation Degree.

Candidates can check the complete eligibility criteria from the official website of the commission.

The selection process for the CDS exam

The CDS exam consists of two stages. These are:

• A written exam
• SSB interview
• Medical Examination

The candidates who qualified for both rounds i.e the written exam and SSB interview will be considered for the final merit list.

A brief explanation of the CDS selection process is as follows:

Written Examination: 

The first stage of the selection process is the written examination, which is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The exam comprises objective-type questions and is conducted in pen-and-paper mode. The written exam consists of three papers, namely English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. The duration of each paper is two hours, and the maximum marks for each paper are 100.

Intelligence and Personality Test: 

Candidates who qualify for the written exam are called for the second stage of the selection process, which is the Intelligence and Personality Test. The test is conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB) and comprises a series of tests designed to assess the candidate’s intelligence, personality, and suitability for a career in the Armed Forces. The Intelligence and Personality Test is conducted for five days and includes various tests such as a group discussion, group planning exercise, and individual tasks.

Medical Examination: 

The final stage of the selection process is the medical examination. Candidates who clear the Intelligence and Personality Test are called for a thorough medical examination to ensure that they are medically fit to join the Armed Forces. The medical examination includes tests to assess the candidate’s physical fitness, eyesight, hearing, and overall health.

Candidates who successfully clear all three stages of the selection process are then recommended for training at their respective academies. The academies are as follows:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA)
• Officers Training Academy (OTA)
• Indian Naval Academy (INA)
• Indian Air Force Academy (IAFA)

The training at these academies is rigorous and aimed at developing the candidate’s physical and mental capabilities to become leaders of tomorrow in the Indian Armed Forces.

CDS Exam Pattern

Candidates who want to clear the CDS exam should have a brief knowledge of the CDS exam pattern. So, in this section, we will discuss the complete exam pattern of the CDS exam.

• The CDS written examination is conducted in offline mode.
• An OMR sheet is provided to the candidates to fill in their answers.
• All the questions will be multiple-choice questions.

Let us discuss the CDS exam pattern for Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA):

• Subjects: English, General Knowledge, & Elementary Mathematics
• Total Duration: 2 Hours
• Number of Questions: 120 (For Mathematics: 100)
• Maximum Marks: 100 Marks

The CDS exam pattern for OTA (Officers Training Academy) is as follows:

• Subjects: General Knowledge & English
• Total Duration: 2 hours
• Maximum Marks: 100 Marks
• Number of Questions: 120

The Hallmarks of Excellence: What Sets Top CDS Coaching Apart

1. Experienced and Qualified Faculty At the core of any exceptional CDS coaching institute lies a team of experienced and highly qualified faculty members. These instructors are not only subject matter experts but also have a deep understanding of the CDS exam pattern, syllabus, and latest trends. They possess the ability to break down complex concepts into digestible nuggets, making even the most challenging topics accessible to students. Moreover, their extensive experience in training CDS aspirants equips them with invaluable insights into effective study strategies, time management techniques, and exam-taking strategies.
2. Comprehensive Curriculum and Study Materials The path to cracking the CDS exam requires a well-rounded and meticulously crafted curriculum that covers all aspects of the syllabus. Top-rated coaching institutes in Chandigarh invest significant resources in developing comprehensive study materials, including textbooks, practice question banks, and mock test series. These materials are regularly updated to align with the latest exam patterns and trends, ensuring students receive the most relevant and up-to-date preparation.
3. Personalized Attention and Mentorship While group instruction is essential, personalized attention and mentorship play a crucial role in addressing individual strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. The best CDS coaching institutes in Chandigarh prioritize smaller batch sizes, allowing instructors to provide one-on-one guidance and tailored feedback to each student. This personalized approach not only enhances learning outcomes but also fosters a supportive environment where students can seek clarification, address doubts, and receive motivation throughout their preparation journey.
4. Mock Tests and Performance Analysis Simulating the actual exam environment is key to building confidence and identifying areas for improvement. Top-notch CDS coaching institutes in Chandigarh conduct regular mock tests that mimic the real exam conditions, including time constraints and question patterns. These mock tests are meticulously designed and evaluated by experienced faculty members, providing valuable feedback and performance analysis to help students identify their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to refine their strategies accordingly.
5. Holistic Preparation and Stress Management Excelling in the CDS exam requires more than just academic excellence; it demands a well-rounded approach that encompasses physical fitness, mental resilience, and stress management techniques. The leading CDS coaching institutes in Chandigarh recognize this and offer comprehensive programs that address all aspects of preparation. From physical training sessions to yoga and meditation classes, these institutes ensure that their students develop the necessary stamina, focus, and stress-coping mechanisms to tackle the rigors of the exam and subsequent training.

Choosing the Right CDS Coaching in Chandigarh

With numerous coaching institutes vying for your attention, selecting the right one can be a daunting task. Here are some key factors to consider when making your choice:

1. Reputation and Track Record Word-of-mouth and reputation hold significant weight in the coaching industry. Seek recommendations from alumni, consult online reviews, and research the institute’s track record of producing successful CDS candidates. A proven history of success is a reliable indicator of the quality of coaching and the effectiveness of their methodologies.
2. Faculty Credentials and Experience Investigate the credentials and experience of the faculty members at the coaching institute. Ensure they possess the necessary qualifications, subject matter expertise, and a deep understanding of the CDS exam. Additionally, inquire about their teaching methodologies and approach to student mentorship.
3. Infrastructure and Learning Resources A well-equipped coaching institute with modern infrastructure and learning resources can greatly enhance the overall learning experience. Look for institutes that offer comfortable classrooms, well-stocked libraries, access to online resources, and up-to-date technology to support interactive and engaging learning sessions.
4. Support Services and Alumni Network Beyond academic coaching, top-rated institutes often provide additional support services, such as career counseling, interview preparation, and access to an active alumni network. These resources can prove invaluable in shaping your journey and ensuring a smooth transition into the Indian Defence Forces.
5. Affordability and Flexibility While quality coaching is a worthwhile investment, it is essential to consider the fees and payment options offered by the institute. Explore institutes that provide flexible payment plans or scholarships to ensure accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, inquire about the availability of online or hybrid learning options to accommodate varying schedules and preferences.

CDS exam syllabus 2024

The CDS syllabus for the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy is as follows:

CDS Syllabus For English:

Here is the CDS syllabus for the English section:

• Spotting Errors Questions
• Sentence Arrangement Questions
• Synonyms & Antonyms
• Selecting Words
• Ordering of Sentence
• Comprehension Questions
• Ordering of words in a sentence
• Fill in the blanks questions
• Idioms and Phrases

CDS Syllabus For Mathematics:

The CDS exam syllabus for Mathematics is as follows:

1) Number System

The topics included in this section are as follows:

• Natural numbers, integers, rational and Real numbers
• Fundamental operations, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, Square roots, Decimal fractions
• Unitary method, time and distance, time and work, percentages, applications to simple and compound interest, profit and loss, ratio and proportion, variation

2) Elementary number theory

The topics included in this section are as follows:

• Division algorithm
• Prime and composite numbers
• Tests of divisibility by 2, 3, 4, 5, 9 and 11
• Multiples and factors
• Factorisation Theorem
• C.F. and L.C.M. Euclidean algorithm
• Logarithms to base 10, laws of logarithms, use of logarithmic tables

3) Algebra

The topics included in this section are as follows:

• Basic Operations, simple factors, Remainder Theorem, H.C.F., L.C.M., Theory of polynomials, solutions of quadratic equations, the relation between its roots and coefficients (Only real roots to be considered)
• Simultaneous linear equations in two unknowns—analytical and graphical solutions
• Simultaneous linear inequations in two variables and their solutions
• Practical problems leading to two simultaneous linear equations or inequations in two variables or quadratic equations in one variable & their solutions
• Set language and set notation, Rational expressions and conditional identities, Laws of indices

Trigonometry

The topics included in this section are as follows:

• Sine ×, cosine ×, Tangent × when 0° < × < 90° Values of sin ×, cos × and tan ×, for ×= 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90° Simple trigonometric identities
• Use of trigonometric tables
• Simple cases of heights and distances

Geometry

The topics included in this section are as follows:

Lines and angles, Plane and plane figures, Theorems on (i) Properties of angles at a point, (ii) Parallel lines, (iii) Sides and angles of a triangle, (iv) Congruency of triangles, (v) Similar triangles, (vi) Concurrence of medians and altitudes, (vii) Properties of angles, sides and diagonals of a Parallelogram, rectangle and square, (viii) Circles and its properties including tangents and normals, (ix) Loci

Mensuration

The topics included in this section are as follows:

• Areas of squares, rectangles, parallelograms, triangles, and circle
• Areas of figures which can be split up into these figures (Field Book), Surface area and volume of cuboids, lateral surface and volume of right circular cones and cylinders, surface area and volume of spheres

Statistics

The topics included in this section are as follows:

• Collection and tabulation of statistical data, Graphical representation frequency polygons, histograms, bar charts, pie charts, etc
• Measures of central tendency

CDS Syllabus For General Knowledge:

The CDS exam syllabus for General Knowledge is as follows:

• Economics
• Physics
• Current Affairs
• Politics
• Chemistry
• Sociology
• History
• Defence related Award
• Geography
• Environment
• Sport
• Biology
• Cultural
• Book
• Statement
• True/False

CDS Exam Syllabus For OTA (Officers Training Academy):

The CDS syllabus for OTA is as follows:

CDS OTA syllabus for English:

The candidates can check the CDS syllabus for the English section below:

• Sentence arrangement
• Spotting Error
• Selecting words
• Synonyms and Antonyms
• Comprehension
• Ordering of Sentence
• Ordering of words
• Idioms and Phrases
• Fill up the blanks

CDS OTA General Ability Test (GAT) Syllabus:

The CDS syllabus for GAT is as follows:

• Current Affairs
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Geography
• History
• Politics
• Sociology
• Economics
• Defence Related Awards
• Sports and Culture
• Environmental Science

What is the salary of a CDS officer?

As per the official notification by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the CDS officer salary in 2023 has been specified. Candidates selected for the post of Lieutenant in the Combined Defence Services (CDS) will receive a monthly pay scale ranging from Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500. The CDS officer salary varies depending on their rank, with an increase in salary as the rank increases. Additionally, CDS officers are eligible for various allowances and compensation based on their posting location. The total CDS salary for 2023 is calculated by adding the basic pay, grade pay, allowances, and other benefits.

Also Read: Difference between NDA and CDS exams 

Preparation tips for the CDS exam

Here are some preparation tips for the candidates preparing for the CDS examination. Follow these easy preparation tips. These will surely help you to get success and achieve your goal. Preparing for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam can be challenging, but with the right approach and dedication, candidates can increase their chances of success. Here are some tips to help candidates prepare for the CDS exam:

Know the syllabus

The first thing to do when preparing for the CDS exam is to get familiar with the topics that will be covered in the exam. This will help you know what you need to study and where you need to focus your efforts.

Develop a study plan

Once you know what topics will be covered in the exam, you can make a plan to study them all. Be sure to manage your time well and give enough time to each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses.

Practice regularly

Practicing regularly is crucial to preparing for the CDS exam. Attempt previous year’s question papers and take mock tests to understand the exam pattern and improve time management skills.

Improve your English

It’s important to be good in English for the CDS exam. To get better at understanding and using English, read newspapers, magazines, and books.

Stay updated

To prepare for the General Knowledge section of the CDS exam, it’s essential to stay updated with current affairs and recent events. Reading newspapers and watching news channels can help you stay informed.

Focus on time management

The CDS exam has a strict time limit, and candidates must finish the exam within the given time. To manage time efficiently, practice time management strategies and attempt questions in a way that saves time.

Maintain physical fitness

Physical fitness is crucial for candidates who want to join the Indian Armed Forces. Make sure to maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise regularly to stay fit.

Preparing for the CDS exam requires a comprehensive study plan, regular practice, and a disciplined approach. Candidates who focus on the syllabus, practice regularly, and maintain physical fitness can increase their chances of success.

Also Read: Is CDS tougher than NDA?

Conclusion

In the above article, we have discussed the complete important details related to the CDS exam. We have included eligibility criteria, selection process, exam pattern, and exam syllabus for the CDS exam. If you are also a CDS aspirant, join IFA Defence Academy. We provide the best CDS coaching in Chandigarh. Along with the CDS exam, we also provide coaching for other Defence exams. Such as AFCAT, NDA, MNS, CAPF, etc.