Difference Between AFCAT and CDS Exam

Candidates appearing in both AFCAT and CDS candidates need to graduate in any discipline. Moreover, AFCAT is opted by candidates who want to apply only for the Air Force.

While CDS open arms for three fields: Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The syllabus for AFCAT is released by the Indian Air Force (IAF), while UPSC releases the syllabus for CDS. For cracking these examinations, good preparation for both is very much needed.

Conducting Body - The Indian Air Force conducts AFCAT. While CDS is conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission)

Frequency of the Exam - AFCAT is conducted twice every year. CDS is conducted for two sessions every year.

Age Limit - The age limit for applying for AFCAT are as follows. Flying Staff - 19-23 years, Technical Staff - 18-28 years, Ground Duties - 19-26 years.  The age criteria for CDS are as follows: Indian Military Academy,  Air Force Academy, Naval Academy 19-24 years (maximum), Officers Training Academy - minimum 19–25 years (maximum)

Type of Force - AFCAT allows applicants to apply for the Air Force. CDS admits to these three fields such as Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Eligibility - Minimum qualification is to have completed 10+2 board with minimum 60% marks in aggregate. Whereas while in CDS Indian Military Academy - Graduation from any recognized university. Air Force Academy - Graduation from any recognized University (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or BE / B Tech. Naval Academy - Engineering Degree from any recognized University.

Duration of Examination - In AFCAT Duration of Examination is 120 minutes, And In CDS Duration of Examination is - 2 hours.

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