- Create your OTR profileRegister once on upsconline.nic.in (One-Time Registration). The same profile works for all UPSC exams.
- Open the CDS formWhen the notice is out, choose the CDS exam and fill personal and education details.
- Pick academies in orderList the academies you want (IMA, INA, AFA, OTA) in order of preference. You can only be considered for the ones you choose and are eligible for. Women can choose only OTA.
- Choose a centrePick an exam centre early; centres have limited seats and fill on a first-come basis.
- Upload photo, live photo and signatureUpload a recent photo, take the live photo, and upload a signature made on white paper with a black pen as the form asks.
- Pay the feePay Rs 200 online by net banking, card or UPI. Women, SC and ST candidates pay nothing.
- Submit and saveCheck every field, submit before 6 PM on the last date, and save the PDF. Use the correction window if UPSC announces one.
- After the written resultIf you put IMA or OTA as first choice, register on joinindianarmy.nic.in to get your SSB call. Navy and Air Force send SSB dates through their own channels.
Documents to keep ready
- Class 10 certificate (for date of birth)
- Degree certificate or final-year proof (needed at SSB)
- Photo ID (Aadhaar or other ID named in the notice)
- Recent photograph and signature scans
- NCC 'C' certificate, if you claim NCC seats
- DGCA Commercial Pilot Licence, if claiming AFA age relaxation
Photo and signature
| Item | Spec |
|---|---|
| Photograph | Recent, clear, front-facing colour photo as per the notice; a live photo is also captured during the form. |
| Signature | Sign three times on white paper in black ink and upload the scan, as the notice explains. |
Application fee
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS (men) | Rs 200 |
| Women, SC, ST | Nil |
Mistakes to avoid
- Choosing an academy you are not eligible for (e.g. INA without an engineering degree).
- Leaving OTA out of your preferences; OTA has the most seats and a lower cut-off.
- Waiting till the last day, when the site is slow and centres are full.
- Uploading an old or unclear photo.
- Forgetting the Army SSB registration on joinindianarmy.nic.in after the written result.
- Applying in final year without being sure you will clear all papers before the deadline.
Not yet confirmed on the official website. Check the official notice before you act on it.
Source: pw.live