Clearing the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is a life-changing milestone. Once you clear the written exam, SSB interview, and medical examination, you officially begin your journey as a Gentleman Cadet / Officer Cadet in one of India’s prestigious defence academies.
Life after CDS is disciplined, challenging, transformative, and deeply rewarding. This article explains what happens after CDS selection, including training life at IMA, OTA, INA, and AFA, daily routines, challenges, and career outcomes.
What Happens After Clearing CDS?
After final merit list selection:
You receive a joining letter
You report to your allotted academy
You undergo rigorous pre-commission training
You are commissioned as an officer in the Indian Armed Forces
Academies After CDS Selection
| Academy | Service | Training Duration |
|---|---|---|
| IMA (Indian Military Academy) | Indian Army (Permanent Commission) | 18 months |
| OTA (Officers’ Training Academy) | Indian Army (Short Service Commission) | 49 weeks |
| INA (Indian Naval Academy) | Indian Navy | ~22 months |
| AFA (Air Force Academy) | Indian Air Force | ~18–24 months |
Life at Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
IMA trains officers for Permanent Commission in the Indian Army.
Training Structure at IMA
Military tactics & warfare
Physical training & endurance
Weapon handling & firing
Field craft & battle drills
Leadership & command training
Discipline, ethics & military law
Daily Routine at IMA
Morning PT & drill
Classroom lectures
Weapon training
Field exercises
Evening sports
Study hours & lights out
Key Highlights
Extremely high discipline
Focus on leadership under pressure
Regular outdoor camps & exercises
Final Passing Out Parade (POP)
Life at IMA transforms civilians into battle-ready Army officers.
Life at Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai
OTA trains officers for Short Service Commission (SSC) in the Army.
Training Structure at OTA
Military basics & drill
Physical fitness
Tactical training
Personality development
Leadership & teamwork
Military ethics
Duration
49 weeks (shorter but equally intensive)
Key Highlights
Mixed training (men & women)
Fast-paced schedule
Strong emphasis on OLQs
Opportunities to convert SSC to PC later
OTA training is compact, intense, and leadership-oriented.
Life at Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala
INA prepares officers for the Indian Navy.
Training Structure at INA
Seamanship & navigation
Naval warfare
Physical conditioning
Swimming & water survival
Leadership at sea
Academic & technical subjects
Unique Aspects
Sea training onboard ships
Water-based drills
Strict discipline & precision
Joint training with Naval & Coast Guard cadets
INA develops officers who can lead at sea under extreme conditions.
Life at Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal
AFA trains officers for the Indian Air Force.
Training Structure at AFA
Flying training (for Flying Branch)
Aeronautical & technical studies
Physical conditioning
Ground duties training
Military discipline
Leadership development
Branches Trained
Flying Branch
Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical)
Key Highlights
High physical & mental standards
Strict medical fitness maintenance
Advanced simulators & flying exposure
Prestige of Air Force commissioning
AFA creates officers who command the skies with precision and responsibility.
Common Challenges During Training
Physical exhaustion
Strict discipline
Time pressure
Homesickness
Mental resilience tests
Those who adapt quickly emerge as stronger leaders.
Life Skills You Gain After CDS Training
Leadership & command ability
Decision-making under stress
Confidence & discipline
Physical fitness
Emotional resilience
Team spirit & integrity
Stipend During Training
All CDS cadets receive a monthly stipend during training:
₹56,100 per month (Level 10 Pay Matrix)
Commissioning After Training
After successful completion:
You are commissioned as:
Lieutenant (Army)
Sub-Lieutenant (Navy)
Flying Officer (Air Force)
You take the oath of allegiance
Official posting to units/squadrons/ships
Career Growth After CDS
Promotions based on time & performance
Opportunities for:
Higher ranks
Specialised courses
Foreign postings
Defence services staff roles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is training life very tough after CDS?
Yes, it is demanding but designed to build officers, not break them.
Q2. Do cadets get leave during training?
Yes, limited leaves are granted during term breaks.
Q3. Can someone quit training after joining?
Yes, but it may involve bond conditions and recovery of costs.
Q4. Is OTA training easier than IMA?
No. OTA training is shorter but equally intense.
Q5. Are women trained at IMA?
No. Women officers are trained at OTA Chennai.
Q6. What happens if someone fails during training?
They may be:
Back-termed
Re-trained
Or discharged depending on performance
Conclusion
Life after clearing CDS is not just about a uniform—it is about responsibility, honour, leadership, and service to the nation. Training at IMA, OTA, INA, or AFA reshapes your mindset, body, and character.
If you are determined, disciplined, and passionate, life after CDS will be the most fulfilling chapter of your life.
