CDS Syllabus 2026: Check Subject-Wise Topics, Exam Pattern & Download PDF

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination twice every year. Those who qualify for this prestigious defence examination are sent for officer-level entry roles. Candidates are recruited for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officer Training Academy (OTA). The selection procedure consists of a written examination followed by a Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, medical clearance and final merit list. The written examination consists of objective-type sections like English, General Knowledge and Mathematics (excluded for OTA). 

As the CDS 2 2026 notification has been released recently by the commission. Candidates who wish to apply must know the syllabus and exam pattern of each and every subject well. The syllabus is an important part of the preparation. Understanding the subject wise topics helps candidates understand the requirements for this exam. Candidates should go through the syllabus once before starting their preparation.

Also Check- UPSC CDS 2 Eligibility Criteria 2026

UPSC CDS Syllabus 2026 Key Highlights

This national-level examination is held annually every year, generally in the months of April and September. The CDS exam is conducted offline in a pen-and-paper format. Check the table for an overall understanding of this exam.

CDS Syllabus 2026 Download PDF

Candidates are advised to download the official syllabus of CDS from the official website of the UPSC to ensure clarity and reference. The notice contains the detailed syllabus, exam format, eligibility criteria, and marking scheme. Download the CDS official syllabus PDF from here.

UPSC CDS Subject Wise Syllabus

Defense aspirants must go through the subject-wise syllabus once in order to have better clarity on the types of topics asked in the exam. The syllabus for CDSE includes English, general knowledge, and elementary mathematics. A detailed breakdown of the syllabus is given below.

CDS English Syllabus 2026

This section tests candidate understanding of English at the graduate level. It analyzes grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. Questions are designed in such a way that they test candidate ability to understand and use the English language correctly in daily life. Topics asked in the exam are as follows:

• Synonyms and Antonyms

• Idioms and Phrases

• Spotting Errors

• Part of Speech

• Fill-ups 

• Reading Comprehension

• Para Jumbles

• Ordering of Words and Sentences

• Active and Passive Voice

• Homonyms

• Similar Sounding Words

CDS General Knowledge Syllabus 2026

This section tests candidates' understanding of the current events happening around them. Questions are asked from general study subjects and current affairs. Key topics include

• Current Affairs

• Indian History

• Geography

• Indian Polity

• Indian Economy

• Physics, Chemistry, and Biology

• Environment and Ecology

• Defense and Military 

UPSC CDS Elementary Mathematics Syllabus 2026

This subject is for those who apply for IMA, INA, and AFA. This section tests candidates understanding of math at the matriculation level. It covers various topics such as 

• Arithmetic Number System, Percentage, Ratio and Proportion, Profit and Loss, Time and Work, Simple and Compound Interest, etc.

• Algebra and Geometry.

• Trigonometry, height, and distances like lines and angles theorems.

• Data Interpretation, Mean, Median, Mode, and Average

How to Prepare for the CDS 2026 Exam Effectively?

To cover the CDS syllabus effectively candidate should first make a proper study plan according to their needs. The study plan helps to cover the syllabus in an effective manner. Key Tips include-

• Go through the official notification PDF once to understand the syllabus.

• Create a study plan according to your needs, as it helps to achieve a set of targets you aspire to.

• For English, you have to practice vocabulary, comprehension, and grammar on a daily basis, as it consists of ample questions.

• For GK, prepare current affairs and GS subjects, which are generally asked in exams. Start with a topic you believe you can cover effectively and then move to other subjects.

• For math solve a set of questions and develop a basic understanding by practicing regularly.

• Previous year questions are the best sources for the CDSE exam, as they help understand the types and levels of questions asked. Solve the mock test in a timely manner.

• Revise on a daily or weekly basis.

UPSC CDS Exam Pattern 2026

The CDS written examination consists of objective multiple-choice questions. The exam pattern differs for various academies: IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.

For IMA, INA & AFA

For IMA, INA, and AFA, subjects included are English, general knowledge, and mathematics.

For OTA

The OTA exam pattern includes sections such as English and General Knowledge. Maths is excluded from this list.