dear sir, the age limit is for CDS exam or for the date of joining the academy if we get selected? because that will change the scenario a bit. how you clear this small doubt also?

Satyam Sharma Hello, Yes, this confusion is common among defence aspirants. For CDS-1 2020, candidates born not earlier than 1997 Jan are accepted. So, three years from now, for CDS-1 2023, candidates born not earlier than 2000 Jan are accepted. This is for IMA. So, for OTA Men, as mentioned in the answer, you will be able to apply. For CDS exam, DOB is mentioned in the notification but not the age related criteria. Check the latest notification here: https://www.upsc.gov.in/sites/default/files/Notice-CDSI2020-Engl-Final.pdf. To get age criteria for your case, add 3 years to the dates mentioned in the notification.