For future defence staff in India, National Defence Academy and Combined Defence Services are two recognised examinations.
NDA: It is for 10+2 students. NDA candidates must be between 16.5 to 19.5 yrs.
CDS: It is for graduates. Candidates must be 19 to 24 years old.
NDA: It consists of two papers: Mathematics and General Ability.
CDS: It has three papers: English, GK, and Elementary Mathematics.
Written exam and SSB interview are part of both the exams. But NDA candidates go through a more difficult selection process.
NDA training lasts 3 years at the Academy.
CDS candidates take about a year completing training in their separate service academies.
Officer posts in the Army, Navy, or Air Force are given to NDA graduates.
CDS graduates can apply in Army, Navy, Air Force, or Indian Military Academy.
NDA and CDS are conducted twice a year.
NDA is considered slightly tougher.
CDS is more suited for graduates with a broader knowledge base.
Your educational background and career objectives will decide whether you choose NDA or CDS.