The much-anticipated UPSC CDS (Combined Defence Services) Result 2025 has created a buzz among defence aspirants across the nation. The cds exam is one of the most prestigious entry points into India’s defence academies — and with the recent declaration of the results, thousands of candidates are eager to know what comes next. In this article, we bring you the latest updates, steps to check your result, cut-off expectations, and the path ahead for successful candidates.

Key Update: CDS Result 2025 Declared / Shortlisted Candidates

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced the CDS II 2025 written exam results, held on 14 September 2025. A total of 9,085 candidates have been shortlisted for the SSB interview stage, as reported by The Times of India.

Earlier in the year, for CDS I 2025, the results were declared on 28 April 2025, where 8,516 candidates qualified for the next round. The consistent participation and performance of candidates show the ever-growing enthusiasm for the cds exam among India’s youth.

How to Check Your UPSC CDS 2025 Result

Checking your result is simple. Just follow these quick steps:

1. Visit the official UPSC website — upsc.gov.in
   
   

2. Navigate to the “Examinations” or “What’s New” section
   
   

3. Find and click on “CDS II 2025 Written Exam Result”
   
   

4. Open the PDF link containing the roll numbers
   
   

5. Use Ctrl+F to search your roll number or registration ID
   
   

6. Download or save the result for future reference
   
   

aThe results are published in PDF format, listing the roll numbers of candidates who cleared the cds exam.

Details in the Result PDF

The result document includes:

• Roll numbers (and sometimes names) of qualified candidates
  
  

• A note indicating that the candidature is provisional
  
  

• Instructions for document verification
  
  

It’s important to note that the individual marks are not released immediately. Marks are usually available only after the final selection process is complete.

Document Verification Deadlines

Candidates must submit their original documents — including proof of date of birth and educational qualification — by specific dates.

• For IMA & INA, the deadline is 1 January 2026
  
  

• For AFA, documents must be submitted by 13 November 2025
  
  

Failing to meet these deadlines may lead to disqualification from the recruitment process.

Expected Cut-Off and Merit

The final cut-off marks for the cds exam 2025 will be released only after the entire selection process concludes. However, previous years’ trends suggest academy-wise merit lists are prepared separately for IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.

Factors Affecting the Cut-Off

• Number of vacancies
  
  

• Difficulty level of the cds exam
  
  

• Average performance of candidates
  
  

Past records indicate that the AFA and IMA cut-offs are typically higher due to limited vacancies and high competition.

What Comes Next: SSB Interview and Final Selection

Those who clear the cds exam written test will now proceed to the SSB Interview phase. This stage evaluates candidates on leadership skills, psychological aptitude, and overall personality.

Following the interview:

1. A final merit list is prepared by combining written and interview scores.
   
   

2. Candidates then undergo medical examinations and document verification.
   
   

3. Successful candidates receive their academy allotments — IMA, INA, AFA, or OTA — based on preference and merit.
   
   

Tips for Qualified Candidates

• Keep checking your email and UPSC website for SSB call letters.
  
  

• Prepare all original documents for verification.
  
  

• Focus on SSB interview preparation — personality tests, physical fitness, and communication skills are key.
  
  

• Stay informed about medical standards and academy-specific requirements.
  
  

Conclusion

The UPSC CDS Result 2025 marks a defining moment for thousands of aspirants dreaming to serve the nation through the armed forces. With the cds exam results now out, 9,085 candidates have taken one major step closer to their goal. The journey ahead — the SSB interview, medical test, and final merit list — demands focus and determination. Stay positive, stay alert, and prepare diligently for the next phase of your defence career.