UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) Virtual OMR Sheet & Free Printable A4 PDF
Simulate the exact exam-hall offline pen-and-paper bubble marking experience with instant auto-timer, millisecond speed tracking, silly mistake diagnostics, and 1-click A4 PDF export with corner optical scanner marks.
UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) OMR Sheet & Exam Hall Pattern
The UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) consists of 120 questions for a total testing duration of 120 minutes. Candidates are awarded +0.83 marks per correct bubble, with 0.27 marks penalized for every incorrect entry.
| Key Exam Attribute | Official Parameter & Benchmark |
|---|---|
| Exam / Cadre Name | UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| 7th CPC Pay Level | Pay Level 10 (Grade Pay ₹5400) |
| Starting Basic Pay | ₹56,100 |
| Estimated In-Hand Salary | ₹1,05,129 / month (Metro) |
| Total Questions & Time | 120 Qs in 120 Minutes |
| Marking Scheme | +0.83 Positive | -0.27 Negative |
| Typing Test Speed | Not Applicable (No DEST typing test) |
| Age Criteria (General/UR) | 19 to 24 Years |
UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) OMR Simulator
Frequently Asked Questions: UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) OMR Practice
Q1. What is the starting in-hand salary for UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS)?
As per the 7th CPC Matrix Level 10, the starting basic pay is ₹56,100. With Dearness Allowance (55% DA), House Rent Allowance (up to 30% for X-cities), and Transport Allowance minus NPS/PF deductions, the net monthly in-hand salary comes to approximately ₹1,05,129.
Q2. What is the negative marking and question pattern for UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS)?
The exam paper consists of 120 multiple-choice questions for a duration of 120 minutes. Candidates receive +0.83 marks for each correct response, while 0.27 marks are deducted for every incorrect attempt. Unattempted questions carry zero penalty.
Q3. Is there a typing skill test required for UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS)?
No. UPSC CDS leads to Commissioned Officer rank via SSB interview and medicals, with no typing test.
Q4. What are the age limits and relaxation criteria for UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS)?
General (Unreserved) candidates must be between 19 and 24 years of age. OBC category candidates receive a 3-year upper age relaxation, and SC/ST candidates receive a 5-year upper age relaxation as per Government of India / State Government rules.
Q5. How does the 8th Pay Commission fitment factor impact the Lieutenant (Indian Army) / Flying Officer / Sub-Lieutenant salary?
If the 8th Pay Commission implements a projected fitment factor between 1.92x and 2.86x, the basic pay for Level 10 (currently ₹56,100) is projected to rise to between ₹1,07,712 and ₹1,60,446, dramatically boosting future gross pension and retirement benefits.
Q6. Can I download and print a free practice OMR sheet for UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS)?
Yes! ToppersMarg provides a free 1-click A4 Printable OMR Sheet Generator calibrated with exact 120 bubbles, corner optical alignment marks, roll number grid, and question-category sections mirroring the real exam hall sheet.