It is commendable to join the career in the Indian armed forces, but the right test road is the real requirement and essence of that time. For graduates, two options – Air Force Common Admission Test – AFCAT and Joint Defence Services – CDS examination stand out. Compared to this blog, we understand the distinctions and similarities between the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) and Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam.
Many candidates have questions about the difference between the AFCAT and CDS exams. Today, in this blog, we will discuss different parameters for the AFCAT and CDS exams to clarify the questions. Both tests provide top-notch opportunities, but their paths vary in extensive methods. This blog is your ultimate guide to comparing these two prestigious defence exams and making an informed decision.
Understanding CDS and AFCAT
What is CDS?
The CDS exam, or Combined Defence Service, is for all three wings – Army, Navy, and Air Force. The exam takes place twice a year and is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It allows candidates to join:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA) – Army
- Indian Naval Academy (INA) – Navy
- Air Force Academy (AFA) – Air Force
- Officers Training Academy (OTA) – Short Service Commission (Men & Women)
What is AFCAT?
AFCAT or Air Force Common Admission Test is conducted with the aid of the Indian Air Force for recruitment into:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical)
Eligibility requirement
For CDS:
Graduates with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level for the Flying Branch; other branches have specific criteria
For AFCAT:
Graduates from recognized universities; specific criteria for different academies
Exam Pattern:
CDS Exam Structure
- IMA, INA, AFA:
- English: 100 Marks
- General Knowledge: 100 Marks
- Elementary Mathematics: 100 Marks
- OTA:
- English: 100 Marks
- General Knowledge: 100 Marks
AFCAT Exam Structure
- All branches:
- General Awareness
- Verbal Ability in English
- Numerical Ability
- Reasoning & Military Aptitude
- (EKT – Engineering Knowledge Test for Technical Branch)
Selection Process
CDS Selection Stages
- Written Exam (by UPSC)
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
AFCAT Selection Stages
- Online Test
- AFSB Interview
- Medical Examination
Training Academies & Career Path
| Exam | Academy | Commission Type | Duration |
| CDS | IMA/INA/AFA/OTA | Permanent/Short Service | 49–74 weeks |
| AFCAT | Air Force Academy (Dundigal) | Short Service & Permanent | 74 weeks (approx.) |
Salary and Perks
Both CDS and AFCAT officers start with a Level 10 (₹ fifty-six thousand) pay scale plus allowances (MSP, DA, transport, and many others). Flying branch cadets receive additional flying pay in the AFCAT.
Difficulty Level
- CDS: General Knowledge and Maths can be significantly harder. The UPSC standard adds a challenge.
- AFCAT: Reasoning, English, and GK are moderate in level. Math’s is more basic compared to CDS.
Pros and Cons
| Criteria | CDS | AFCAT |
| Broad Entry Options | Army, Navy, Air Force, OTA | Only Indian Air Force |
| Exam Level | High (UPSC Standard) | Moderate |
| Commission Type | Permanent + Short Service | Mostly Short Service (except flying) |
| Application Process | Through UPSC Website | Through IAF AFCAT Portal |
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Which Exam Should You Choose?
- Choose CDS if:
- You want to serve in Army, Navy, or Air Force
- You’re strong in academics and prepared for UPSC-level papers
- You aim for a Permanent Commission
- Choose AFCAT if:
- You’re passionate about joining the Indian Air Force
- You prefer aptitude-based exams
- You’re okay with the Short Service Commission initially
Conclusion
Both CDS and AFCAT provide profitable military careers. The choice boils right down to your passion, academic heritage, and professional goals. If you’re looking for variety and wider service entry, CDS is the path. If the skies call you and the Air Force is your dream, AFCAT is your flight ticket.
FAQs about CDS vs AFCAT
Ans. Yes, if you meet the eligibility for both, you can apply and prepare for them simultaneously.
Ans. CDS generally offers more vacancies due to multiple service branches.
Ans. Yes, in well-known, AFCAT is slightly easier and has greater flair primarily than the CDS exam.
Ans. Yes, through AFA for Air Force, but only if you have Physics and Math in 10+2 and an Engineering degree.
Ans. Yes, women can apply for OTA in CDS and all branches in AFCAT, depending on the vacancy.