Introduction
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is one of the most sought-after gateways to join the Indian Armed Forces. Aspirants who clear the CDS I 2026 Exam will get the opportunity to attend the SSB Interview – the next crucial step toward joining IMA, INA, AFA, or OTA.
But the biggest challenge most candidates face is clearing the written cutoff. Thousands appear, but only a fraction manage to cross the qualifying marks and receive the SSB call letter.
This guide will provide you with detailed strategies on how to clear the CDS I 2026 cutoff and secure your SSB call, along with tips to maximize your overall performance.
CDS I 2026 Exam Cutoff – Understanding the Basics
Before preparing to beat the cutoff, it’s important to understand how UPSC evaluates candidates.
CDS Cutoff Structure
Sectional Cutoff: Candidates must score at least 20% marks in each subject (English, GK, Mathematics).
Overall Cutoff: The combined score across all sections should cross the overall cutoff marks (varies for IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA).
Final Merit List: Even after clearing the cutoff, only those who qualify the SSB Interview + Medicals will make it to the merit list.
Previous Year CDS Cutoff Trends (Approximate)
| Academy | Written Exam Cutoff | Final Cutoff (Written + SSB) |
|---|---|---|
| IMA | 120–130 | 245–260 |
| INA | 110–125 | 230–245 |
| AFA | 135–145 | 260–270 |
| OTA | 90–100 | 160–170 |
(Cutoffs vary each year depending on difficulty level and vacancies.)
How to Clear CDS I 2026 Cutoff – Section-Wise Strategy
1. English Paper Strategy
Focus on Grammar, Vocabulary, and Reading Comprehension.
Daily practice of error spotting, synonyms-antonyms, and para-jumbles.
Read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express to improve comprehension and vocabulary.
Target Score: 70+ out of 120.
2. General Knowledge (GK) Strategy
Cover Current Affairs of last 8–10 months (national & international events, defence news, government schemes).
Revise Static GK: Indian Polity, History, Geography, Economy, and Science.
Use monthly compilations from sources like GKToday or AffairsCloud.
Attempt mock quizzes daily for better recall.
Target Score: 55+ out of 120.
3. Mathematics Strategy (for IMA/INA/AFA Aspirants)
Syllabus includes topics from Class 6 to Class 10 NCERTs.
Prioritize Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, and Statistics.
Practice speed and accuracy – avoid lengthy calculations.
Take at least 15–20 mock tests before the exam.
Target Score: 70+ out of 100.
(Note: OTA candidates do not have Mathematics paper.)
Smart Strategies to Clear CDS I 2026 Cutoff
Understand Exam Pattern Thoroughly: Know which topics carry more weightage.
Focus on Sectional Cutoff First: Don’t neglect any paper; balance preparation.
Solve Previous Year Papers: Helps in understanding question trends.
Take Regular Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to improve time management.
Revise Consistently: Especially for GK and current affairs.
Avoid Negative Marking: Accuracy is key – don’t make blind guesses.
Securing the SSB Call After Clearing CDS Cutoff
Once you clear the cutoff, you will receive the call letter for the SSB Interview. To increase your chances:
Work on Personality Development: SSB focuses on Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs).
Practice Group Discussions & PPDT: Improve communication and quick thinking.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Essential for lecturette and interview rounds.
Physical Fitness: Maintain stamina for outdoor tasks.
Mock SSB Sessions: Join a professional academy for practice.
Why Victor Growth is the Right Choice for CDS I 2026 Preparation?
While self-study and online resources are helpful, aspirants often need structured guidance, mentorship, and expert strategies to cross the cutoff and excel in SSB.
Here’s why Victor Growth is the right partner for your success:
Expert Faculty for English, GK, and Mathematics.
Regular Mock Tests with detailed analysis.
Updated Study Material aligned with CDS 2026 syllabus.
SSB Interview Guidance – from psychology tests to GTO tasks.
Personalized Mentorship for working professionals and students.
👉 With Victor Growth, you don’t just prepare for the written exam – you prepare for the complete journey from CDS to SSB to final merit list.
FAQs on CDS I 2026 Cutoff and SSB Call
Q1. What is the minimum cutoff for CDS I 2026?
The cutoff will depend on the difficulty level of the exam. Typically, it ranges between 90–100 for OTA and 120–130 for IMA/INA.
Q2. Is there a sectional cutoff in CDS?
Yes, candidates must score at least 20% marks in each paper to qualify.
Q3. How many mock tests should I attempt before CDS I 2026?
At least 15–20 full-length mocks along with daily practice quizzes.
Q4. Do I need coaching to clear CDS cutoff?
Not mandatory, but coaching institutes like Victor Growth provide structured preparation and boost chances of clearing both written and SSB stages.
Q5. What happens after clearing CDS cutoff?
Candidates who clear the cutoff receive an SSB call letter for the interview process, which includes psychology tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.
✅ Final Word:
Clearing the CDS I 2026 cutoff is the first step toward achieving your dream of serving in the Indian Armed Forces. With smart preparation, regular mock practice, and the right guidance from Victor Growth, you can not only cross the cutoff with ease but also ace the SSB Interview to secure your final selection.
