The Union Public Services Commission (UPSC) has officially released the CDS 1 2024 cut-off marks, an important update for candidates appearing for the Combined Defence Services Exam. The announcement is significant for candidates aspiring to join the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Below, we will delve deep into the details of the cut-off marks, providing in-depth analysis and guidance for future aspirants.
Understanding Cut-Off Marks
What Are Cut-Off Marks?
Cut-off marks are the minimum marks that candidates must obtain to qualify for the next stage of the selection process. The UPSC determines these marks based on various factors such as the number of vacancies, the difficulty level of the exam, and the performance of the candidates.
Factors Affecting the Cut-off
- Number of candidates appearing: A higher number of applicants generally increases the competition, thereby affecting the cut-off.
- Level of difficulty: Tougher question papers may result in lower cut-off marks.
- Number of vacancies: The total number of posts available directly affects the cut-off, fewer vacancies result in a higher cut-off.
Category-wise cut-off marks for UPSC CDS 1 2024
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Written exam: 120 marks
- Final cut-off (Written + SSB): 245 marks
- Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Written exam: 108 marks
- Final cut-off (Written + SSB): 233 marks
- Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Written exam: 138 marks
- Final cut-off (Written + SSB): 270 marks
- Officers Training Academy (OTA) – Male
- Written exam: 73 marks
- Final cut-off (Written + SSB): 176 marks
- Officers Training Academy (OTA) – Female
- Written exam: 73 marks
- Final cut-off (Written + SSB): 179 marks
How to check Cut-off Marks?
Candidates can follow these steps to check UPSC CDS 1 2024 cut-off marks:
- Visit the official UPSC website.
- Go to the “Examination” section and click on “Cut-Off Marks”.
- Select “CDS 1 2024” from the list.
- Download the cut-off marks PDF.
- Check your category-wise cut-off marks and compare them with your score.
Importance of cut-off marks
Cut-off marks serve as a benchmark for candidates to understand their position in the exam. They also help in planning future preparation strategies. Candidates who have scored above the cut-off can proceed to the next stage, while those who have not been able to cross the cut-off can analyze their performance for future attempts.
Preparation tips for prospective candidates
- Understand the syllabus and exam pattern: Go through the syllabus thoroughly and understand the exam pattern. Focus on high-weightage topics.
- Regular practice and mock tests: Constantly practicing with previous years’ question papers and mock tests helps in time management and accuracy.
- Stay updated with current affairs: A significant portion of the exam is based on current affairs. Stay updated with national and international news.
- Physical fitness: Physical fitness is also important for the written exam as well as the SSB interview. Maintain a regular fitness regime.
Conclusion
The release of UPSC CDS 1 2024 cut-off marks is an important milestone for candidates aspiring to serve in the Indian defence forces. It provides clarity on their performance and sets a clear path for the next stages. Candidates are advised to prepare diligently, focusing on both academic and physical fitness aspects.
For those who have successfully cleared the cut-off, congratulations on your achievement. For others, take it as an opportunity to learn and improve for future endeavours. The journey to become a part of the Indian Defence Forces is challenging but rewarding.
Also Read:
- Join Online & Offline CDS Test Series 2025 (Bilingual)
- CDS Exam Preparation Module Books Syllabus and Pattern Guide for Success
