These Defence Exams in 2025 Are Your Chance to Serve the Nation – Get All the Details

  •  Content Creator : Prabhjot
  • 10-02-2025

The year 2025 is all set to be a gateway to endless possibilities for those with courage in their hearts and the dream of donning the uniform. The National Defence Academy (NDA), Combined Defence Services (CDS), Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), Agniveer, and other defence exams stand as a testament to India’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and protectors. These exams demand not just academic excellence but physical and mental strength. Here’s a detailed overview of the major defence exams for 2025, helping you take a confident step toward achieving your dreams.

1. National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam 2025

The NDA exam is a prestigious opportunity for young aspirants to join the Indian Armed Forces. Known for producing some of the finest military leaders, the academy serves as a foundation for disciplined and dynamic officers. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year, this exam offers young minds a chance to shape their careers and serve the nation with honour.

Eligibility Criteria

Age

16.5 to 19.5 years

Qualification

10+2 from a recognized board

Gender

Male and female candidates

Exam Pattern

Mathematics

300 marks

General Ability Test (GAT)

600 marks

SSB Interview

900 marks

Key Dates

NDA I Notification

December 2024

NDA I Exam

April 2025

NDA II Notification

June 2025

NDA II Exam

September 2025

2. Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam 2025

For those who’ve graduated and aspire to lead the nation’s defence forces, the CDS exam is a golden opportunity. Conducted by UPSC twice a year, this exam opens doors to premier institutions such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA). It’s a pathway for individuals to develop into commissioned officers and make a significant impact on national security.

Eligibility Criteria

Age

19 to 25 years

Qualification

Graduation or final-year students

Gender

Male and female candidates (OTA only)

Exam Pattern

For IMA, INA, AFA

English

100 marks

General Knowledge

100 marks

Elementary Mathematics

100 marks

For OTA

English

100 marks

General Knowledge

100 marks

SSB Interview

300 marks (IMA, INA, AFA), 200 marks (OTA)

Key Dates

CDS I Notification

December 2024

CDS I Exam

April 2025

CDS II Notification

June 2025

CDS II Exam

September 2025

3. Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 2025

The Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a highly competitive exam designed for individuals who dream of soaring the skies as officers in the Indian Air Force. With opportunities in flying, ground duty (technical and non-technical), and other branches, AFCAT tests both intellectual capability and technical prowess. The Air Force is a career that combines honour, adventure, and a commitment to national security.

Eligibility Criteria

Age

Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years

Ground Duty: 20 to 26 years

Qualification

10+2 with Physics and Mathematics + Graduation with 60%

Gender

Male and female candidates

Exam Pattern

AFCAT

300 marks

SSB Interview

Based on the selected branch

Key Dates

AFCAT I Notification

December 2024

AFCAT I Exam

February 2025

AFCAT II Notification

June 2025

AFCAT II Exam

August 2025

4. Agniveer Exam 2025

Introduced under the Agnipath Scheme, the Agniveer exam is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at modernizing India’s armed forces and offering aspirants the chance to serve the nation in short-term capacities. This exam is ideal for young individuals eager to contribute to the defence sector while gaining valuable skills and discipline that last a lifetime.

Eligibility Criteria

Age

17.5 to 21 years

Qualification

10th/12th pass depending on the role

Gender

Male and female candidates

Exam Pattern

Written Test

Subject-specific questions

Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

Running, push-ups, and other physical tasks

Medical Examination

Comprehensive medical check-up

Key Dates

Notification

Early 2025

Exam

Mid-2025

5. Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Exam 2025

The Indian Coast Guard plays a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests. The ICG exam is a gateway for individuals passionate about protecting India’s waters and upholding the law of the sea. Roles such as Navik (General Duty), Yantrik (Technical), and Assistant Commandant offer opportunities to serve in challenging and rewarding capacities.

Eligibility Criteria

Age

18 to 22 years (varies by role)

Qualification

10+2 for sailors; graduate for officers

Gender

Male and female candidates

Exam Pattern

Written Test

Varies by role

Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

Includes running, push-ups, etc.

Medical Examination

Comprehensive medical check-up

Key Dates

Notification

January 2025

Exam

April 2025

6. CAPF Exam 2025

The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) Assistant Commandant (AC) exam, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is the gateway for individuals aspiring to serve in leadership roles across India’s paramilitary forces. This prestigious exam involves a rigorous selection process, including a written test, physical standards evaluation, and a personality test/interview.

The CAPF exam aims to identify candidates with both intellectual prowess and physical readiness to handle internal security and operational responsibilities crucial to maintaining national security. Selected candidates undergo specialized training before being entrusted with these vital roles.

Eligibility Criteria

Age

20 to 25 years

Qualification

Graduation from a recognized university

Gender

Male and female candidates

Exam Pattern

Phase 1-Written Exam

Paper I

250 marks – General Ability and Intelligence (2 hours)

Paper II

200 marks – Essay, Comprehension, and General Studies (3 hours)

Phase 2-Physical Standards Test (PST) / Physical Efficiency Test (PET) / Medical Test

Phase 3-Interview/Personality Test – 150 marks

Key Dates

Notification

July 2025

Exam

September 2025

7. Territorial Army (TA) Exam 2025

The Territorial Army offers a unique opportunity for civilians to serve the nation while pursuing their regular professions. Designed for individuals who wish to experience the honor and responsibility of military service, the TA exam is an excellent option for those with a passion for leadership and patriotism.

Eligibility Criteria

Age

18 to 42 years

Qualification

Graduation from a recognized university

Gender

Male and female candidates

Exam Pattern

Paper I

Reasoning and Elementary Mathematics

Paper II

General Knowledge and English

SSB Interview

For successful candidates in the written exam

Key Dates

Notification

July 2025

Exam

September 2025

Whether through the skies, seas, or on land, the opportunity to don the uniform is within reach for those who are ready to rise to the challenge. Stay tuned to Guide Me Career for the latest updates, detailed insights, and expert guidance on Defence Exams 2025. From notifications and eligibility criteria to exam patterns and preparation strategies, we’ve got you covered. Let us be your trusted partner on your journey to achieving your dreams of serving the nation.