What is the criteria for joining Combined Defence Servies ? Eligibility? And can a arts student (girl) can join it?

Hello Anjali,

Yes, you can but not in all sectors. Below are the eligibility details.

CDS is conducted in two stages for the post of office cadre in Indian Army or Indian Navy or Indian Air Force or Officer’s Training Academy (OTA). Your preference of post has to be mentioned at the time of registration.

Listed below are few key points of who is eligible to apply -

• Indian/ outside India candidates from neighboring countries who are settled in India.
• Minimum age limit is 19 years.
• Female candidates are eligible for OTA only.
• Married candidates can apply only for Air Force Academy (AFA) and OTA.
• For IMA/INA/AFA, B.Tech degree is acceptable while a degree in any discipline is accepted in OTA.

The educational qualification for I.M.A. and OTA -  Degree of a recognized University or equivalent.

So, clearly, you are eligible for that though with Arts stream you may not be eligible for the rest.

Hope this helps.