Syllabus and Exam Pattern for Defence Exams 2024
1. National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam
1.1 Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years as on the first day of the month in which the commencement of the course is notified.
- Educational Qualification: 12th pass or equivalent.
- Nationality: Indian citizen.
1.2 Exam Pattern
The NDA exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It is a written exam followed by an interview (SSB).
1.2.1 Written Exam:
- Paper 1: Mathematics (240 Marks, 2.5 hours)
- Paper 2: General Ability Test (600 Marks, 2.5 hours)
1.2.1.1 Mathematics Syllabus:
- Algebra: Sets, Relations and Functions, Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Matrices and Determinants, Permutations and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Sequences and Series, Probability, Statistics, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Vector Algebra, Calculus.
- Trigonometry: Trigonometric Ratios, Identities, Equations, Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Heights and Distances.
- Coordinate Geometry: Straight Lines, Circles, Conic Sections.
- Calculus: Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Integration, Applications of Derivatives and Integrals.
- Vector Algebra: Scalar and Vector Products, Scalar Triple Product, Vector Equation of a Line and Plane.
1.2.1.2 General Ability Test Syllabus:
- English: Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases.
- General Knowledge: History, Geography, Current Affairs, Economics, Polity, Science, Environment.
- Reasoning and Mental Ability: Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Data Interpretation.
1.2.2 SSB Interview:
- Stage 1: Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Tests and Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT).
- Stage 2: Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks, Psychological Tests, and Interview.
1.3 Important Points
- The syllabus for the NDA exam is vast and requires dedicated preparation.
- Candidates are advised to refer to the official UPSC website for the latest syllabus and exam pattern.
- Mock tests and previous years’ question papers are essential for effective preparation.
2. Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam
2.1 Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 19 to 25 years for IMA, 19 to 25 years for INA, 19 to 24 years for AFA, and 20 to 26 years for OTA.
- Educational Qualification: Graduate degree from a recognized university.
- Nationality: Indian citizen.
2.2 Exam Pattern
The CDS exam is conducted twice a year by the UPSC. It is a written exam followed by an interview (SSB).
2.2.1 Written Exam:
- Paper 1: English (100 Marks, 2 hours)
- Paper 2: General Knowledge (100 Marks, 2 hours)
- Paper 3: Elementary Mathematics (100 Marks, 2 hours)
2.2.1.1 English Syllabus:
- Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases.
2.2.1.2 General Knowledge Syllabus:
- History, Geography, Current Affairs, Economics, Polity, Science, Environment.
2.2.1.3 Elementary Mathematics Syllabus:
- Arithmetic: Number System, HCF and LCM, Percentages, Profit and Loss, Simple and Compound Interest, Ratio and Proportion, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Average, Mixtures and Alligations.
- Algebra: Linear Equations, Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Progressions, Permutations and Combinations, Binomial Theorem.
- Trigonometry: Trigonometric Ratios, Identities, Equations, Heights and Distances.
- Geometry: Lines and Angles, Triangles, Quadrilaterals, Circles, Mensuration.
- Statistics: Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Probability.
2.2.2 SSB Interview:
- Stage 1: Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Tests and Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT).
- Stage 2: Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks, Psychological Tests, and Interview.
2.3 Important Points
- The CDS exam is a competitive exam with a high level of difficulty.
- Candidates are advised to start their preparation early and focus on their weak areas.
- Regular practice and mock tests are crucial for success in the exam.
3. Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT)
3.1 Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 20 to 24 years for Flying Branch, 20 to 26 years for Ground Duty Branch.
- Educational Qualification: Graduate degree from a recognized university.
- Nationality: Indian citizen.
3.2 Exam Pattern
The AFCAT exam is conducted twice a year by the Indian Air Force. It is a computer-based exam.
3.2.1 Exam Pattern:
- General Awareness: Current Affairs, History, Geography, Polity, Economics, Science, Environment.
- Verbal Ability in English: Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases.
- Numerical Ability: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Statistics.
- Reasoning and Military Aptitude: Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Military Aptitude.
3.2.2 SSB Interview:
- Stage 1: Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Tests and Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT).
- Stage 2: Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks, Psychological Tests, and Interview.
3.3 Important Points
- The AFCAT exam is designed to assess the candidate’s general awareness, verbal ability, numerical ability, and reasoning skills.
- Candidates are advised to focus on their strengths and work on their weaknesses.
- Mock tests and previous years’ question papers are essential for effective preparation.
4. Army Cadet College (ACC) Exam
4.1 Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years as on the first day of the month in which the commencement of the course is notified.
- Educational Qualification: 12th pass with at least 60% marks in aggregate and 50% marks in each subject.
- Nationality: Indian citizen.
4.2 Exam Pattern
The ACC exam is conducted twice a year by the UPSC. It is a written exam followed by an interview (SSB).
4.2.1 Written Exam:
- Paper 1: Mathematics (200 Marks, 2 hours)
- Paper 2: General Knowledge (200 Marks, 2 hours)
4.2.1.1 Mathematics Syllabus:
- Algebra: Sets, Relations and Functions, Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Matrices and Determinants, Permutations and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Sequences and Series, Probability, Statistics, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Vector Algebra, Calculus.
- Trigonometry: Trigonometric Ratios, Identities, Equations, Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Heights and Distances.
- Coordinate Geometry: Straight Lines, Circles, Conic Sections.
- Calculus: Limits, Continuity, Differentiation, Integration, Applications of Derivatives and Integrals.
- Vector Algebra: Scalar and Vector Products, Scalar Triple Product, Vector Equation of a Line and Plane.
4.2.1.2 General Knowledge Syllabus:
- English: Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases.
- General Knowledge: History, Geography, Current Affairs, Economics, Polity, Science, Environment.
- Reasoning and Mental Ability: Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Data Interpretation.
4.2.2 SSB Interview:
- Stage 1: Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Tests and Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT).
- Stage 2: Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks, Psychological Tests, and Interview.
4.3 Important Points
- The ACC exam is a challenging exam that requires dedicated preparation.
- Candidates are advised to focus on their strengths and work on their weaknesses.
- Mock tests and previous years’ question papers are essential for effective preparation.
5. Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) Exam
5.1 Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 19 to 25 years for Men, 19 to 25 years for Women.
- Educational Qualification: Graduate degree from a recognized university.
- Nationality: Indian citizen.
5.2 Exam Pattern
The OTA exam is conducted twice a year by the UPSC. It is a written exam followed by an interview (SSB).
5.2.1 Written Exam:
- Paper 1: English (100 Marks, 2 hours)
- Paper 2: General Knowledge (100 Marks, 2 hours)
- Paper 3: Elementary Mathematics (100 Marks, 2 hours)
5.2.1.1 English Syllabus:
- Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases.
5.2.1.2 General Knowledge Syllabus:
- History, Geography, Current Affairs, Economics, Polity, Science, Environment.
5.2.1.3 Elementary Mathematics Syllabus:
- Arithmetic: Number System, HCF and LCM, Percentages, Profit and Loss, Simple and Compound Interest, Ratio and Proportion, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Average, Mixtures and Alligations.
- Algebra: Linear Equations, Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Progressions, Permutations and Combinations, Binomial Theorem.
- Trigonometry: Trigonometric Ratios, Identities, Equations, Heights and Distances.
- Geometry: Lines and Angles, Triangles, Quadrilaterals, Circles, Mensuration.
- Statistics: Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Probability.
5.2.2 SSB Interview:
- Stage 1: Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Tests and Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT).
- Stage 2: Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks, Psychological Tests, and Interview.
5.3 Important Points
- The OTA exam is a competitive exam with a high level of difficulty.
- Candidates are advised to start their preparation early and focus on their weak areas.
- Regular practice and mock tests are crucial for success in the exam.
6. Important Resources for Defence Exam Preparation
- Official Websites: UPSC, Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force.
- Books: Arihant, Disha, Pathfinder, RS Aggarwal.
- Online Resources: Defence Exams App, Gradeup, Testbook, Unacademy.
- Coaching Institutes: Various coaching institutes offer comprehensive preparation programs for defence exams.
7. Tips for Defence Exam Preparation
- Start Early: Begin your preparation well in advance to cover the vast syllabus.
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly understand the syllabus and exam pattern.
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a realistic study plan and stick to it.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and work on them diligently.
- Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and mock tests.
- Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with current affairs.
- Maintain Physical Fitness: Physical fitness is essential for defence services.
- Develop Leadership Qualities: Participate in extracurricular activities and develop leadership skills.
- Stay Motivated: Stay motivated and focused throughout your preparation.
8. Table of Defence Exams and their Eligibility Criteria
| Exam | Age Limit | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| NDA | 16.5 to 19.5 years | 12th pass or equivalent |
| CDS | 19 to 25 years (IMA, INA) | Graduate degree |
| CDS | 19 to 24 years (AFA) | Graduate degree |
| CDS | 20 to 26 years (OTA) | Graduate degree |
| AFCAT | 20 to 24 years (Flying Branch) | Graduate degree |
| AFCAT | 20 to 26 years (Ground Duty Branch) | Graduate degree |
| ACC | 16.5 to 19.5 years | 12th pass with 60% marks |
| OTA | 19 to 25 years (Men) | Graduate degree |
| OTA | 19 to 25 years (Women) | Graduate degree |
9. Table of Defence Exams and their Exam Pattern
| Exam | Written Exam | SSB Interview |
|---|---|---|
| NDA | Paper 1: Mathematics (240 Marks) | Stage 1: OIR Tests, PP&DT |
| NDA | Paper 2: General Ability Test (600 Marks) | Stage 2: GTO Tasks, Psychological Tests, Interview |
| CDS | Paper 1: English (100 Marks) | Stage 1: OIR Tests, PP&DT |
| CDS | Paper 2: General Knowledge (100 Marks) | Stage 2: GTO Tasks, Psychological Tests, Interview |
| CDS | Paper 3: Elementary Mathematics (100 Marks) | Stage 1: OIR Tests, PP&DT |
| CDS | Stage 2: GTO Tasks, Psychological Tests, Interview | |
| AFCAT | Computer-based exam | Stage 1: OIR Tests, PP&DT |
| AFCAT | Stage 2: GTO Tasks, Psychological Tests, Interview | |
| ACC | Paper 1: Mathematics (200 Marks) | Stage 1: OIR Tests, PP&DT |
| ACC | Paper 2: General Knowledge (200 Marks) | Stage 2: GTO Tasks, Psychological Tests, Interview |
| OTA | Paper 1: English (100 Marks) | Stage 1: OIR Tests, PP&DT |
| OTA | Paper 2: General Knowledge (100 Marks) | Stage 2: GTO Tasks, Psychological Tests, Interview |
| OTA | Paper 3: Elementary Mathematics (100 Marks) | Stage 1: OIR Tests, PP&DT |
| OTA | Stage 2: GTO Tasks, Psychological Tests, Interview |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the age limit for the exam?
The age limit varies depending on the specific exam and branch. Refer to the official notification for details.
2. What is the educational qualification required?
The minimum educational qualification is usually 12th pass or a graduate degree, depending on the exam and branch. Check the official notification for specific requirements.
3. How many times is the exam conducted in a year?
Most defence exams are conducted twice a year, usually in the months of February/April and August/October.
4. What is the exam pattern?
The exam pattern includes a written exam followed by an interview (SSB). The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering subjects like English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. The SSB interview assesses personality traits and leadership qualities.
5. What is the syllabus for the exam?
The syllabus varies depending on the exam. It typically covers subjects like English, General Knowledge, Mathematics, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude. Refer to the official notification for the detailed syllabus.
6. How can I prepare for the exam?
Start your preparation early, understand the syllabus thoroughly, create a study plan, focus on your weak areas, practice regularly, stay updated with current affairs, and maintain physical fitness.
7. Are there any coaching institutes for defence exam preparation?
Yes, there are many coaching institutes that offer comprehensive preparation programs for defence exams.
8. What are the important resources for exam preparation?
Refer to official websites, books, online resources, and coaching institutes for comprehensive preparation.
9. What are the important tips for exam preparation?
Start early, understand the syllabus, create a study plan, focus on weak areas, practice regularly, stay updated, maintain physical fitness, develop leadership qualities, and stay motivated.
10. What is the selection process for the defence services?
The selection process typically involves a written exam, SSB interview, medical examination, and merit list.
11. What are the different branches in the defence services?
The defence services have various branches, including Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Each branch has its own specific requirements and selection process.
12. What are the career opportunities in the defence services?
A career in the defence services offers opportunities for growth, adventure, and service to the nation. You can serve as an officer or a soldier in various roles and specializations.
13. What are the benefits of joining the defence services?
Benefits include a competitive salary, pension, medical facilities, housing, and other perks.
14. What are the challenges of joining the defence services?
Challenges include rigorous training, demanding work schedules, and the risk of deployment in conflict zones.
15. How can I get more information about defence exams?
Refer to the official websites of the UPSC, Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force for detailed information.