If you aspire to join the armed forces in India, you have likely come across the options of NDA (National Defence Academy), CDS (Combined Defence Services), and AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test). These exams serve as entry points into different branches of the Indian Armed Forces, and each comes with its unique challenges and advantages. In this article, we will compare, NDA or CDS or AFCAT, the three exams to help you understand which is better suited for you and which is considered tougher.
1. NDA (National Defence Academy)
The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for candidates who wish to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force right after completing their 12th grade. The NDA offers a unique opportunity to get military training alongside a degree.
Eligibility:
The NDA exam is open to students who have completed or are appearing for their 12th standard examinations. For the Air Force and Navy wings, a candidate must have a background in Physics and Mathematics.
Exam Structure:
The NDA exam consists of two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The level of difficulty for Mathematics is higher than typical 12th-grade exams, and GAT tests English, General Knowledge, and Current Affairs.
Challenges:
The difficulty of the NDA exam lies in the Mathematics paper, which is tough, and the SSB interview, where candidates are tested on their mental, emotional, and physical capabilities. NDA is often considered challenging due to the early age at which candidates apply, and the SSB selection process is rigorous.
Now, while NDA is a great opportunity for school graduates, those who complete their graduation have the option to apply through CDS or AFCAT.
2. CDS (Combined Defence Services)
The CDS exam is also conducted by UPSC but is aimed at candidates who have completed their graduation. It allows graduates to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or Officers Training Academy (OTA).
Eligibility:
The CDS exam is open to graduate candidates from various fields, but specific educational requirements depend on the academy. For example, science or engineering backgrounds are preferred for Navy and Air Force.
Exam Structure:
CDS consists of three papers: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (for IMA, INA, and AFA), while OTA candidates only appear for the first two subjects. The Mathematics section in CDS is relatively easier than NDA but requires a broader understanding of concepts.
Challenges:
The CDS exam may seem easier academically when compared to NDA, but the competition is fierce due to the large number of graduates applying. Furthermore, clearing the SSB interview and meeting the stringent medical standards is a challenge for many candidates.
If you are more inclined towards the Air Force specifically, you may want to consider AFCAT, which is designed exclusively for the Indian Air Force.
You can also read: SSB Interview Dress Code for Male and Female Candidates
3. AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)
The AFCAT exam is specifically for entry into the Indian Air Force as an officer in various branches including Flying, Technical, and Ground Duty. Unlike NDA and CDS, AFCAT is conducted twice a year by the Indian Air Force itself, and it caters only to graduates.
Eligibility:
AFCAT requires candidates to be graduates in any discipline for the Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branch, while specific qualifications such as engineering degrees are required for the Flying and Technical branches.
Exam Structure:
The AFCAT exam consists of a single paper covering General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning. Candidates opting for the Technical branch must also clear the EKT (Engineering Knowledge Test).
Challenges:
While AFCAT is considered less difficult compared to NDA and CDS in terms of syllabus, it demands a strong performance in both the written exam and the AFSB interview. The medical and fitness standards for the Flying branch are particularly stringent.
Each exam caters to different education levels and entry points into the armed forces, so let’s now compare them directly to understand which is tougher.
4. Comparison: NDA or CDS or AFCAT
Toughness:
- NDA is considered the toughest due to the high level of competition among younger candidates and the intense training program post-selection.
- CDS follows closely behind, with a moderately tough written exam but a rigorous selection process through the SSB interview.
- AFCAT is generally considered the least difficult academically, but the technical branches require specialized knowledge, and the AFSB interview is highly competitive.
Better Choice:
- NDA is ideal for those wanting to start their military career right after school. The training is intensive, and candidates graduate as young officers.
- CDS is the best option for graduates who have missed out on NDA but still aspire to join the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
- AFCAT is the most suitable option for those specifically interested in a career in the Indian Air Force, especially in the Flying or Technical branches.
Whether you choose NDA or CDS or AFCAT depends on your educational background, career preferences, and long-term goals. Each pathway has its unique merits, but all are equally prestigious in shaping a career in the Indian Armed Forces.
Conclusion
In summary, NDA or CDS or AFCAT are all prestigious exams offering various entry points into the Indian Armed Forces. While NDA is considered tougher due to the level of competition and early entry, CDS and AFCAT offer equally rewarding careers with a focus on graduates. The decision of which is better or tougher ultimately depends on your academic qualifications and where your interests lie – whether in the Army, Navy or Air Force.
FAQs
The NDA, CDS and AFCAT selection process is mostly similar as they all first conduct a written exam followed by a round of interviews. Thus, the two-stage selection procedure for NDA and CDS is same i.e., Written Exam + SSB Interview. For AFCAT, the two-stage selection procedure includes a Written Exam + AFSB Interview.
Amongst NDA or CDS or AFCAT, the best exam for an average student should preferably be AFCAT as its difficulty level is comparatively less than both CDS and AFCAT. Moreover, second preference would be given to CDS, which is comparatively easier than NDA. While NDA has tougher questions asked in the written examination, the SSB interview for the CDS exam is harder to pass. Thus, whether NDA or CDS or AFCAT is better depends on an applicant’s interests, capabilities and career aspirations.