The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2026, conducted by UPSC, is a highly competitive defence exam for graduates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as commissioned officers. A clear understanding of the CDS 2026 syllabus is essential to plan preparation effectively and score well in the written examination.
This detailed guide covers the complete CDS 2026 syllabus for English, General Knowledge (GK), and Mathematics, along with topic-wise weightage insights and preparation tips.
📌 CDS 2026 Syllabus – Overview
The CDS written examination consists of the following papers:
English
General Knowledge (GK)
Elementary Mathematics (for IMA, INA & AFA only)
📌 OTA candidates need to prepare English & GK only.
📝 CDS 2026 English Syllabus (100 Marks)
The English paper tests a candidate’s understanding of the language, grammar usage, and comprehension skills.
Important Topics in CDS English Syllabus
Reading Comprehension
Vocabulary (Synonyms & Antonyms)
Idioms & Phrases
Sentence Improvement
Spotting Errors
Fill in the Blanks
Ordering of Words in a Sentence
Para Jumbles
Active & Passive Voice
Direct & Indirect Speech
Parts of Speech
Tenses
Articles & Prepositions
📌 Level: Graduation standard
📌 Focus Area: Accuracy, vocabulary, and comprehension speed
Preparation Tips for English
✔ Read newspapers and editorials daily
✔ Practice previous year CDS English questions
✔ Focus on grammar rules and vocabulary building
🌍 CDS 2026 General Knowledge (GK) Syllabus (100 Marks)
The GK paper evaluates a candidate’s awareness of current events and general understanding of various subjects.
CDS GK Syllabus – Major Sections
1. Current Affairs
National & International Events
Defence-related news
Awards & Honours
Sports
Important Appointments
Government Schemes
2. History
Ancient Indian History
Medieval Indian History
Modern Indian History
Freedom Struggle
World History (basic concepts)
3. Geography
Physical Geography
Indian Geography
World Geography
Climate, Rivers, Mountains
Natural Resources
4. Indian Polity
Constitution of India
Fundamental Rights & Duties
Directive Principles
Parliament & Judiciary
Panchayati Raj System
5. Indian Economy
Basic Economic Concepts
Budget & Five-Year Plans
Banking & Financial Institutions
Inflation, GDP, Poverty
6. General Science
Physics (Basic concepts)
Chemistry (Everyday chemistry)
Biology (Human body, plants & animals)
📌 Level: Graduation standard
📌 Focus Area: Static GK + Current Affairs balance
Preparation Tips for GK
✔ Revise static GK regularly
✔ Make short notes for current affairs
✔ Focus more on defence and national issues
➗ CDS 2026 Mathematics Syllabus (100 Marks)
(Applicable for IMA, INA & AFA only)
The Mathematics paper tests numerical ability, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
📌 Level: Class 10+2 standard
📌 OTA candidates are exempted
CDS Mathematics Syllabus – Detailed Topics
1. Arithmetic
Number System
HCF & LCM
Percentage
Ratio & Proportion
Profit & Loss
Simple & Compound Interest
Time & Work
Time & Distance
Averages
Mixture & Allegation
2. Algebra
Basic Operations
Linear Equations
Quadratic Equations
Polynomials
Laws of Indices
Logarithms
3. Geometry
Lines & Angles
Triangles
Circles
Parallelogram & Polygons
Theorems & Constructions
4. Mensuration
Areas of Plane Figures
Surface Area & Volume of Solids
Cube, Cuboid, Cylinder, Cone & Sphere
5. Trigonometry
Trigonometric Ratios
Identities
Heights & Distances
6. Statistics
Mean, Median, Mode
Bar Graphs & Pie Charts
Preparation Tips for Mathematics
✔ Practice daily to improve speed
✔ Focus on formulas and shortcuts
✔ Avoid guesswork due to negative marking
📊 CDS 2026 Syllabus – Academy-Wise Subjects
| Academy | Subjects |
|---|---|
| IMA | English, GK, Mathematics |
| INA | English, GK, Mathematics |
| AFA | English, GK, Mathematics |
| OTA | English, GK |
⚠️ Important Points About CDS 2026 Syllabus
✔ Questions are objective (MCQs)
✔ Each paper carries 100 marks
✔ Negative marking applicable
✔ Equal importance to all subjects
✔ Syllabus remains largely consistent every year
🧠 Smart Preparation Strategy Based on Syllabus
Divide time equally among subjects
Focus more on English & GK for OTA
Strengthen Maths basics for IMA/INA/AFA
Practice mock tests regularly
Revise important topics weekly
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the CDS 2026 syllabus?
The CDS 2026 syllabus includes English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics (Maths only for IMA/INA/AFA).
Q2. Is Maths compulsory for all CDS candidates?
No, Mathematics is not required for OTA candidates.
Q3. What is the level of CDS syllabus?
English and GK are of graduation level, while Mathematics is of Class 10+2 level.
Q4. Is the CDS syllabus same for CDS-I and CDS-II 2026?
Yes, the syllabus remains the same for both CDS-I and CDS-II.
Q5. How important is current affairs for CDS GK?
Current affairs are very important, especially defence and national issues.
Q6. Does UPSC change CDS syllabus every year?
No, the CDS syllabus remains largely unchanged, with only minor variations.
Q7. Can I clear CDS with self-study using this syllabus?
Yes, with disciplined self-study, regular practice, and proper revision, clearing CDS is achievable.
🔚 Conclusion
A clear understanding of the CDS 2026 syllabus for English, GK, and Mathematics is the first step toward success in the exam. With systematic preparation, smart planning, and consistent practice, aspirants can confidently clear the written examination and move closer to their dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces.
