Top Defence Exams in India: NDA, CDS, AFCAT, INET & CAPF Explained
By DefenceNiti
Use this quick guide to choose the right exam based on your age, qualification and career goal. Then jump to our prep resources below.
1) NDA (National Defence Academy)
- Who can apply: 12th pass (16.5–19.5 years)
- Conducted by: UPSC (twice a year)
- Selection: Written exam → SSB Interview → Medicals
- Opportunity: Army, Navy, Air Force wings after training at NDA, Pune
Tip: Best route to become a commissioned officer straight after school.
2) CDS (Combined Defence Services)
- Who can apply: Graduates (typ. 20–24 yrs; varies by academy)
- Conducted by: UPSC (twice a year)
- Selection: Written exam → SSB Interview → Medicals
- Opportunity: IMA (Army), INA (Navy), AFA (Air Force), OTA (SSC)
Tip: Ideal for graduates seeking Permanent or Short Service Commission.
3) AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)
- Who can apply: Graduates (20–26 years)
- Conducted by: Indian Air Force (twice a year)
- Selection: Online exam → AFSB Interview → Medicals
- Opportunity: Flying Branch; Ground Duty (Technical/Non-Technical)
Tip: Core route to join IAF outside NDA/CDS.
4) INET (Indian Navy Entrance Test)
- Who can apply: Graduates (approx. 19–24 years)
- Conducted by: Indian Navy
- Selection: Online exam → SSB Interview → Medicals
- Opportunity: Executive, Technical, Education branches
Tip: Dedicated path for aspirants focused on a naval career.
5) CAPF (Assistant Commandant)
- Who can apply: Graduates (20–25 years)
- Conducted by: UPSC
- Selection: Written exam → PET/PST → Medicals → Interview
- Opportunity: Assistant Commandant in BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB
Tip: Officer role in Central Armed Police Forces (paramilitary).
Quick Comparison
| Exam | Eligibility | Age Limit | Conducted By | Service Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NDA | 12th Pass | 16.5–19.5 | UPSC | Army, Navy, Air Force |
| CDS | Graduate | ~20–24 | UPSC | IMA, INA, AFA, OTA |
| AFCAT | Graduate | 20–26 | Indian Air Force | Flying, Ground Duty |
| INET | Graduate | ~19–24 | Indian Navy | Executive, Technical, Education |
| CAPF | Graduate | 20–25 | UPSC | Assistant Commandant |
Next Steps & Prep Guides
Choose Your Path, Start Preparing
Match your age and qualification to the right exam, then build a study and fitness plan. When you’re ready, move to our detailed prep guides above.
