Clearing the CDS written exam and SSB interview does not guarantee final selection unless a candidate is declared medically fit. The CDS 2026 medical examination is conducted to ensure candidates meet the physical and medical standards required to serve in the Indian Armed Forces under extreme conditions.
This article explains CDS physical standards, height–weight requirements, vision criteria, common medical rejections, and preparation tips in detail.
Why CDS Medical Examination Is Important?
Officers in the Army, Navy, and Air Force operate in:
High-altitude areas
Extreme temperatures
Combat and operational stress
Therefore, candidates must be:
Physically strong
Medically stable
Free from long-term illnesses or deformities
CDS 2026 Physical Standards – Overview
Medical standards are prescribed by UPSC and Ministry of Defence (MoD) and are uniform across academies, with slight variations.
Minimum Height Requirement (Academy-Wise)
| Academy | Minimum Height |
|---|---|
| IMA (Army) | 157.5 cm |
| OTA (Army) | 157.5 cm |
| INA (Navy) | 157 cm |
| AFA (Air Force) | 162.5 cm |
Height Relaxation
Gorkhas & candidates from NE regions: –5 cm
Lakshadweep candidates: –2 cm
CDS Weight Standards
Weight must be proportionate to height and age.
Indicative Weight Chart (Army & Navy)
| Height (cm) | 20 yrs | 25 yrs | 30 yrs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 160 | 50 | 54 | 58 |
| 165 | 52 | 56 | 60 |
| 170 | 55 | 59 | 63 |
| 175 | 59 | 63 | 67 |
Overweight or underweight candidates may be declared temporarily unfit.
Chest Measurement Requirements (Army & Navy)
Minimum chest: 81 cm
Expansion: Minimum 5 cm
Fully developed chest mandatory
CDS Vision Standards (Academy-Wise)
IMA & OTA (Army)
| Condition | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Distant Vision | 6/6 or 6/9 (better eye) |
| Worse Eye | 6/9 |
| Myopia | Not more than –2.5D |
| Hypermetropia | Not more than +3.5D |
| Colour Vision | CP-III |
INA (Navy)
| Condition | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Vision | 6/6, 6/6 |
| Myopia | Max –1.5D |
| Hypermetropia | +1.5D |
| Colour Vision | CP-II |
AFA (Air Force)
| Condition | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Vision | 6/6 in both eyes |
| Myopia | –2.0D |
| Hypermetropia | +2.0D |
| Colour Vision | CP-I |
| LASIK Surgery | Permitted (with conditions) |
LASIK / Eye Surgery Rules for CDS 2026
Allowed only for Army & Air Force
Surgery must be:
After age 20
Stable refraction for 12 months
No complications
Not allowed for Naval branches.
Hearing Standards
Normal hearing ability required
No history of chronic ear infections
Able to hear whisper at 610 cm
Dental Standards
Minimum 14 dental points
No severe dental caries
Healthy gums and jaw
General Medical Conditions – Disqualification Causes
Temporary Unfitness
Overweight / underweight
High BP
Minor infections
Wax in ears
Permanent Rejection
Flat foot (severe)
Knock knees
Scoliosis (spine curvature)
Color blindness (beyond permitted level)
Hernia
Varicose veins
Chronic asthma
Epilepsy
Heart murmurs
Tattoo Policy for CDS 2026
Permanent tattoos allowed only on:
Inner forearm
Back of hand (Army only)
Content must not be offensive
Tribal tattoos allowed with proof
Medical Tests Conducted in CDS
Blood & urine tests
X-ray chest
ECG
Vision & hearing test
ENT check
Orthopaedic examination
Psychological medical assessment
CDS Medical Examination Duration
Conducted over 3–5 days
Appeals allowed for temporary rejection
Review medical board possible
Tips to Clear CDS Medical Test 2026
Start physical training early
Maintain ideal BMI
Correct posture & walking
Avoid smoking & alcohol
Maintain dental hygiene
Get vision tested regularly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is flat foot allowed in CDS?
Mild flat foot may be acceptable; severe flat foot leads to rejection.
Q2. Is LASIK allowed for CDS 2026?
Yes, for Army & Air Force with conditions. Not allowed for Navy.
Q3. Can overweight candidates pass medicals?
No. Weight must be within prescribed limits.
Q4. Are tattoos allowed in CDS?
Yes, only at permitted locations and content.
Q5. Is temporary rejection final?
No. Candidates can appeal and appear for re-medical.
Q6. Do medical standards differ for men & women?
Standards are mostly same; some parameters vary slightly.
Conclusion
The CDS 2026 medical examination is as important as the written exam and SSB interview. Most rejections happen due to lack of awareness and poor physical preparation, not major diseases.
Start early, stay disciplined, and maintain fitness—medical clearance is completely achievable with proper planning.
