The selection procedure for the CDS is both transparent and thorough. It only picks the most highly qualified individuals. Here is how it proceeds, step by step:

1. Written Examination

The written examination, which is the initial step of the selection procedure, is conducted by UPSC.

• It examines candidates in English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (for IMA, INA, and AFA).
• For OTA, the paper merely has English and General Knowledge.
• The written examination is objective, with each paper carrying a fraction of 100 marks

It is important to score well in the written examination, since only those who meet the cut-off criteria are invited for the SSB Interview.

2. SSB Interview

The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is conducted over a five-day process, which screens a candidate’s personality, intelligence, leadership qualities, and officer-like qualities.

It includes various stages such as:

• Screening Test (OIR and PPDT)
• Psychological Tests
• Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks
• Personal Interview
• Conference Round

In this stage, they test your ability to think on your feet, express yourself confidently, and lead a group, which is an important skill for an army officer.

3. Medical Examination

Candidates who are on the list must pass through complete medical examination to determine their physical and mental fitness for training and service after successfully passing the SSB interview process.

Following these three phases, the final merit list created by the UPSC is based on the basis of total marks in the SSB interview and the written exam. The medical examination is qualifying but is mandatory for the purpose of being inducted.