CDS Exam Centres 2025, Check Complete List of Test Cities

Exam On - 13 Apr '25

Updated on Dec 10, 2024 12:58 IST

By Shikha Goyal, Assistant Manager

CDS Exam Centres 2025: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) releases the CDS 2025 exam centres along with the CDS 1 notification 2025. The written exam will be conducted in more than 70 cities spread throughout the country in two shifts.

Candidates are required to enter their preferences for CDS exam centres 2025 while filling out the application form. Candidates can choose only one exam city at the time of application. CDS exam centres are allotted to candidates on a first-apply-first-allot basis. The details regarding the exam cities are mentioned on the CDS admit card. Read below for more details on the exam centres of CDS 2025.

Table of content

CDS Exam Centres 2025
CDS Exam Dates & Schedule
Important Points Related to CDS Exam Centres 2025
CDS Exam Centre 2025 FAQs

CDS Exam Centres 2025

The exam cities for the CDS 1 2025 exam is provided below. Candidates who will appear for the exam can check below the exam centre list.

Agartala	Ghaziabad	Panaji (Goa)
Agra	Gorakhpur	Patna
Ajmer	Gurgaon	Port Blair
Ahmedabad	Gwalior	Prayagraj (Allahabad)
Aizawl	Hyderabad	Puducherry
Aligarh	Imphal	Pune
Almora (Uttarakhand)	Indore	Raipur
Anantapur (Andhra Pradesh)	Itanagar	Rajkot
Aurangabad	Jabalpur	Ranchi
Bengaluru	Jaipur	Sambalpur
Bareilly	Jammu	Shillong
Bhopal	Jodhpur	Shimla
Bilaspur	Jorhat	Siligudi
Chandigarh	Kochi	Srinagar
Chennai	Kohima	Srinagar (Uttarakhand)
Coimbatore	Kolkata	Thane
Cuttack	Kozhikode (Calicut)	Thiruvananthapuram
Dehradun	Leh	Tiruchirapalli
Delhi	Lucknow	Tirupati
Dharwad	Ludhiana	Udaipur
Dispur	Madurai	Varanasi
Faridabad	Mumbai	Vellore
Gangtok	Mysore	Vijayavada
Gaya	Nagpur	Vishakhapatnam
Gautam Buddh Nagar	Navi Mumbai	Warangal

Commonly asked questions

Q: How many exam centres allotted to CDS exam?

The number of exam centres allotted for the CDS exam may vary each year depending on the number of candidates and other related factors. The UPSC which is the conducting authority for the CDS exam, usually releases a list of exam centres along with the notification for the exam. In general, the CDS exam is conducted at multiple centres across India to accommodate the large number of candidates who appear for the exam. Candidates can choose their preferred exam centre while filling out the application form, and the final allotment of exam centres is done by the UPSC based on the availability of seats and other related factors. Candidates should check the official notification for the CDS exam on the official website of the UPSC to get the latest updates on the exam centres and other related information.

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Q: Why CDS exam is conducted?

The CDS exam is conducted by the UPSC to select candidates for admission to various courses in the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA). The CDS exam is conducted twice a year, and candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for the exam. The exam consists of a written test followed by a Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which is designed to assess the personality traits and suitability of the candidates for the respective course or post. The CDS exam is a highly competitive exam, and candidates who clear the written test and the SSB interview are selected for admission to the respective course or post based on their overall performance in the exam. The CDS exam provides an opportunity for candidates who are interested in a career in the Indian Armed Forces to pursue their dream and serve the country with honor and pride.

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Q: Can I change my CDS exam centre after submitting the CDS application form?

No, candidates cannot change their CDS exam centre after submitting the application form. The exam centre allotted by the Union Public Service Commission UPSC is final, and candidates must appear for the exam at the allotted centre only. Therefore, candidates are advised to carefully choose their preferred exam centre while filling out the application form and ensure that they can reach the exam centre on the day of the exam. Candidates should also check the official notification and updates regarding the CDS exam on the official website of the UPSC for any changes or updates related to the exam centre.

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CDS Exam Dates & Schedule

Take a look at the table below for the complete schedule of CDS 2025 exam

Dates	Upcoming Exam Dates
13 Apr '25	CDS 1 Exam 2025
28 May '25	CDS 2 Notification 2025
28 May '25 - 17 Jun '25	CDS 2 Application Form 2025
14 Sep '25	CDS 2 Exam 2025

Dates	Past Exam Dates
11 Dec '24	CDS 1 Notification 2025
11 Dec '24 - 01 Jan '25	CDS 1 Application 2025
01 Sep '24	CDS 2 Exam
View More Past Events (3)

Registration

Ongoing

Exam Date

Results

Cutoff

Counselling

Important Points Related to CDS Exam Centres 2025

A few important points related to CDS exam centres are given below:

Allotment of CDS exam centres is done on the first-apply-first-allot basis
Once the capacity of a particular CDS exam centre is attained, the same is frozen
In such a case, candidates are allotted to the next available centres
Candidates are advised to fill out the application form early to get their preferred CDS exam centres
There is a ceiling on the number of candidates allotted to each exam centre except Chennai, Delhi, Dispur, Kolkata, and Nagpur
The examination authority does not entertain any request for a change in CDS exam centres after the final submission of the CDS application form
Candidates are advised to choose the exam centres carefully
The details related to the CDS exam centre such as an address, centre code, venue, and time are mentioned on the CDS admit card

Read More:

Commonly asked questions

Q: What documents do I need to carry to the CDS exam centre?

Candidates need to carry the following documents to the CDS exam centre: 1. CDS Admit Card: Candidates must carry the CDS admit card to the exam centre. The admit card will be released by the Union Public Service Commission UPSC a few weeks before the exam. 2. Photo ID Proof: Candidates must carry a valid photo ID proof, such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, driving license, or passport, to the exam centre. The ID proof must be original and should not be expired. 3. Two passport size photographs: Candidates must carry two passport size photographs to the exam centre. The photographs should be recent and identical. Candidates should ensure that all the details mentioned on the admit card, photo ID proof, and photographs match with each other. Candidates should also reach the exam centre at least 30 minutes before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card. It's important to note that candidates who fail to carry any of the above documents to the exam centre will not be allowed to appear for the exam. Candidates should also check the official notification and updates regarding the CDS exam on the official website of the UPSC for any changes or updates related to the documents required at the exam centre.

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Q: How can I find out CDS exam centre?

You can find out your CDS exam centre by following these steps: 1. Visit the official website of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) 2. Click on the Examination tab on the homepage. 3. Click on the Active Examinations link. 4. Find the link for the CDS exam and click on it. 5. Click on the Download Admit Card link. 6. Enter your registration number/roll number and date of birth. 7. Click on the Submit button. 8. Your CDS admit card will be displayed on the screen. 9. Check the details on the admit card, including the exam centre, date, and time. 10. Download and take a printout of the admit card for future reference. The CDS exam centre will be mentioned on your admit card, which is released by the UPSC a few weeks before the exam. It's important to note that the exam centre allotted by the UPSC is final, and candidates must appear for the exam at the allotted centre only.

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Q: Will the UPSC conduct CDS exam in my city?

The Union Public Service Commission UPSC usually conducts the CDS (Combined Defense Services) exam in multiple cities across India to accommodate the large number of candidates who appear for the exam. The list of exam centres is usually mentioned in the official notification for the exam. Candidates can choose their preferred exam centre while filling out the application form. However, the final allotment of the exam centre is done by the UPSC based on the availability of seats and other related factors. The exam centre allotted by the UPSC is final, and candidates must appear for the exam at the allotted centre only. Therefore, candidates should carefully choose their preferred exam centre while filling out the application form and ensure that they can reach the exam centre on the day of the exam. Candidates should also check the official notification and updates regarding the CDS exam on the official website of the UPSC for any changes or updates related to the exam centre.

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CDS Exam Centre 2025 FAQs

Refer CDS Centre 2025 FAQs Here

Commonly asked questions

Q: Can I carry calculator to the CDS exam centre?

No, candidates are not allowed to carry calculators or any electronic devices to the CDS exam centre. The list of prohibited items may vary each year, and candidates should check the instructions mentioned in the admit card or the official notification for the exam to know the complete list of prohibited items. However, candidates are allowed to carry a simple non-programmable calculator to the OTA (Officers' Training Academy) exam centre. The calculator should not have any memory, text storage, or retrieval capability. Candidates should check the official notification for the exam to know the complete list of allowed and prohibited items for the OTA exam. It's important to note that candidates who violate the instructions or carry any prohibited items to the exam centre will be disqualified from the exam and may face other penalties as per the rules and regulations of the UPSC. Therefore, candidates should carefully read and follow the instructions mentioned in the admit card and the official notification for the exam.

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Q: What should I do if I feel unwell during the CDS exam at the CDS exam centre?

If a candidate feels unwell during the CDS exam, they should inform the invigilator or the exam supervisor immediately. The invigilator or the supervisor will take appropriate action based on the rules and regulations of the UPSC. The exam authorities may provide medical assistance or first aid to the candidate if required. In case of a serious medical emergency, the candidate may be allowed to leave the exam hall and seek medical attention immediately. It's important to note that candidates should not ignore any signs of illness or discomfort during the exam and should inform the exam authorities immediately. Any delay in seeking medical attention may lead to serious health complications and may also affect the performance in the exam. Therefore, candidates should take care of their health and well-being before and during the exam, and inform the exam authorities immediately if they experience any discomfort or illness during the exam.

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Q: Can I wear masks at CDS exam centres?

Yes, candidates are allowed to wear masks at the CDS exam centre. In fact, wearing a mask is mandatory as per the guidelines issued by the government to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Candidates should ensure that they wear a mask covering the nose and mouth at all times while at the exam centre. Candidates are also advised to carry an extra mask and a small bottle of hand sanitizer for their personal use. The exam authorities may also follow other safety protocols, such as thermal scanning, social distancing, and sanitation of the exam hall and other related areas. Candidates should follow the instructions and guidelines issued by the exam authorities and cooperate with them to ensure the safety of everyone present at the exam centre. It's important to note that any violation of the safety protocols or guidelines may lead to disqualification from the exam and other penalties as per the rules and regulations of the UPSC. Therefore, candidates should strictly follow the safety protocols and guidelines issued by the exam authorities and the government to ensure a safe and smooth exam experience.

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Q: What should I do if I accidently bring a prohibited item to the exam center of CDS?

If a candidate accidentally brings a prohibited item to the CDS exam centre, they should immediately inform the invigilator or the exam supervisor at the centre. The invigilator or the supervisor will take appropriate action based on the rules and regulations of the UPSC. In most cases, candidates are not allowed to bring any prohibited items to the exam centre, and any violation of the rules may lead to disqualification from the exam and other penalties as per the rules of the UPSC. However, if the prohibited item is found to be a mistake or an accident, the candidate may be allowed to continue with the exam after the item has been confiscated or removed from the exam hall. Therefore, candidates should carefully read and follow the instructions mentioned in the admit card and the official notification for the exam to avoid any mistakes or violations. Candidates should also check the list of allowed and prohibited items at the exam centre and ensure that they do not carry any prohibited items to the exam centre.

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Q: Can I carry my wrist watch to the CDS exam centre?

Yes, candidates are allowed to carry a simple wristwatch to the CDS exam centre. However, the wristwatch should not have any additional features such as a calculator, memory, or any other electronic capabilities. The UPSC which is the conducting authority for the CDS exam, prohibits candidates from carrying any electronic devices or gadgets to the exam centre, which includes mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches, or any other electronic devices that can be used for communication or calculation purposes. Candidates should check the instructions mentioned in the admit card or the official notification for the exam to know the complete list of allowed and prohibited items at the exam centre. It's important to note that candidates who violate the instructions or carry any prohibited items to the exam centre will be disqualified from the exam and may face other penalties as per the rules and regulations of the UPSC. Therefore, candidates should carefully read and follow the instructions mentioned in the admit card and the official notification for the exam. Has context menu.

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Student Forum

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Can you share information about CDS exam?

Answered 2 days ago

The UPSC conducts the National-level Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam to choose candidates who wish to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA) and Air Force Academy (AFA). The CDS I 2025 exam has its scheduled date set as April 13, 2025 while the CDS II 2025 takes

Krish Lalwani

Contributor-Level 7

What is the exam fee for the CDS OTA exam on 14th September 2025?

Answered 4 days ago

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) organizes the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination as two annual sessions. The CDS examination application fee amounts to INR 200 for General and OBC male applicants yet female candidates along with SC and ST candidates are never required to pay any

Shiv Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Which course will be beneficial in the preparation of the CDS exam?

Answered 5 days ago

For CDS (Combined Defence Services) preparation, it is very important to choose the right course to cover all aspects of the exam. CDS exam has three sections: English, General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics. Here’s how to approach each:

English: Good command of English is must, focus on gramma

Invicta Defence Academy

Beginner-Level 4

Can a male with Nursing degree apply for CDS exam?

Answered 6 days ago

Males with Nursing degrees can submit applications for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam as Short Service Commission (SSC) Military Nursing Service applicants. Candidates seeking enrollment in the CDS exam need to possess an academic Nursing degree from an accredited institution along with be

Kapil Lalwani

Contributor-Level 10

I am 23 years and 5 months old according to my documents but actually, I am 22 years old will I be eligible to apply for CDS 2 IMA or OTA?

Answered 6 days ago

According to your documents, at 23 years and 5 months old, you meet the age criteria for both the Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Officers' Training Academy (OTA) through the CDS2 examination.the official age limits are

IMA: Unmarried male candidates born between July 2,2001, and July 1,2006.

OTA:

Sateesh Kumar Barla

Beginner-Level 5

I have completed Part 1 and 2 of UPSC CDS form and also paid the fee on 31 Deecember 2024. I am unable to choose centre. What to do?

Answered a month ago

If you have completed Part I and Part II of the application form for UPSC CDS and also paid, but are not able to select an exam center, then there are a few things you can do;

Check your Form:

Ensure that each required section is filled in appropriately in both parts of the application form.
Sometimes,

Ujjwal Gupta

Contributor-Level 9

What are the correction dates for CDS 1 2025 application form?

Answered a month ago

CDS 1 2025 application form correction window was closed. The authority extended the last date to apply for the CDS 1 2025. The last date to apply for CDS 1 2025 was January 1, 2025.

Gunjan Majumder

Beginner-Level 3

My sister is currently in class 12 and having biology subject. Is she eligible for CDS exam?

Answered a month ago

Your sister can surely give the CDS exam. Since she is class 12 and studying Biology, she needs to complete her graduation first, as CDS exam requires candidates to be a graduate from any recognised university.

Khushi Gupta

Contributor-Level 10

Can OBC category female students apply for CDS-1 exam?

Answered a month ago

Any OBC girl is free to apply for the CDS-I examination under reservation benefits extended by the government.

The eligibility of OBCs, including girls, is similar to that of general categories regarding age and educational qualifications. However, here his age limit has been relaxed and certain seat

Udaya Bhaskar rao

Contributor-Level 10

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