The Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, is one of the most popular entries through the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination. It offers a prestigious opportunity to serve as a Short Service Commission (SSC) Officer in the Indian Army, for both men and women.
If you want to wear the uniform, lead troops, and serve the nation—without committing to a full lifelong military career—CDS OTA entry is the perfect option.
This article explains everything about CDS OTA entry, including eligibility, exam pattern, selection process, training, salary, and career prospects.
What Is CDS OTA Entry?
CDS OTA entry allows candidates to join the Indian Army as Short Service Commissioned Officers after clearing:
CDS written examination
SSB interview
Medical examination
Selected candidates undergo training at OTA Chennai and are commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army.
What Is Short Service Commission (SSC)?
Short Service Commission is a limited-period commission that allows officers to serve in the Army for a fixed tenure.
SSC Tenure
Initial service: 10 years
Extension: 4 years
Total maximum: 14 years
Option to apply for Permanent Commission (PC) later (subject to vacancies & merit)
CDS OTA Eligibility Criteria (2026)
Nationality
Indian citizen
Subjects of Nepal/Bhutan (as per UPSC rules)
Age Limit (OTA Entry)
| Category | Age Range |
|---|---|
| OTA (Men & Women) | 19 to 25 years |
Age limits are strictly calculated as per the official CDS 2026 notification.
Educational Qualification
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
No minimum percentage required
Final-year students can apply (with proof at SSB)
CDS OTA Written Exam Pattern
OTA candidates appear for only TWO papers.
| Paper | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 hours |
Total Marks: 200
Negative Marking: –0.33 per wrong answer
OTA entry does not include Mathematics, making it ideal for non-math students.
CDS OTA Cut-Off (Expected Trend)
| Stage | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| Written Exam | 95–105 marks |
| Final Merit | 160–170 marks |
(Cut-offs vary based on paper difficulty & vacancies)
SSB Interview for OTA Entry
OTA SSB process is the same 5-day SSB interview conducted for other CDS entries.
SSB Stages
Stage I: OIR & PPDT (Screening)
Stage II:
Psychological Tests
GTO Tasks
Personal Interview
Conference & Recommendation
OTA SSB focuses strongly on leadership, teamwork, confidence, and OLQs.
Medical Standards for OTA Entry
Same medical standards as IMA (Army)
Height: 157.5 cm (men & women)
Weight proportionate to height
Vision: 6/6 or 6/9
Tattoos allowed only at prescribed locations
Training at Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai
Training Duration
49 weeks (approximately 11 months)
Training Focus
Military drill & discipline
Physical training & endurance
Weapon handling
Field craft & tactics
Leadership development
Officer-like qualities (OLQs)
OTA training is shorter but extremely intense and professional.
Life After OTA Training
After successful completion:
Commissioned as Lieutenant
Posted to units across India
Eligible for promotions and specialised courses
Opportunity to apply for Permanent Commission
Salary After OTA Commission
Basic Pay: ₹56,100/month (Level 10)
Military Service Allowance: ₹15,500
Additional allowances based on posting
OTA officers receive the same salary and respect as Permanent Commission officers during service.
Career Growth After OTA Entry
Promotion Path
Lieutenant
Captain
Major
Higher ranks possible after PC conversion or based on SSC policies.
Post-Service Opportunities
Corporate leadership roles
Government jobs
Security & defence consultancy
MBA & higher education advantages
Why Choose CDS OTA Entry?
No Mathematics paper
Open for both men & women
Shorter training duration
Same honour, rank & pay
Option for permanent commission
Ideal balance between service & civilian career
Common Myths About OTA Entry
❌ OTA officers are inferior to IMA officers
✅ False – Same rank, pay, and respect
❌ OTA has easy training
✅ False – Training is equally demanding
❌ No career growth in SSC
✅ False – Many SSC officers reach senior ranks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is CDS OTA only for women?
No. CDS OTA is open to both men and women.
Q2. Is maths required for OTA entry?
No. OTA has only English and GK papers.
Q3. Can OTA officers become permanent officers?
Yes. SSC officers can apply for Permanent Commission.
Q4. Is OTA easier than IMA?
OTA exam has fewer papers, but SSB and training standards are the same.
Q5. What is the service duration after OTA?
Up to 14 years, with option for PC.
Q6. Are OTA officers eligible for pension?
Yes, after completing the required service tenure as per rules.
Conclusion
The CDS OTA entry is one of the best pathways to become an Indian Army officer, especially for aspirants who want leadership, adventure, and national service without a lifelong military commitment.
With no mathematics paper, equal respect, strong career growth, and future flexibility, OTA entry through CDS is an excellent choice for 2026 aspirants.
