Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2 exam 2025 is being conducted today, September 14, 2025, by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The exam is spread across three shifts at various centres nationwide. The first and second shifts are now over, and the third shift, covering Elementary Mathematics, will start at 4:00 PM. Students appearing for the CDS 2 exam 2025 can check the latest updates, shift-wise analysis, student reactions, and answer keys here.
CDS 2 Exam 2025: Shift 1 Analysis: English Paper
The first shift of the CDS 2 exam 2025, held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, was dedicated to the English paper. According to students, the paper had a moderate level of difficulty. It comprised vocabulary questions, grammar usage, sentence correction, and comprehension passages.
Most candidates found the paper fair and solvable within the allotted time. The pattern remained similar to past years, helping students attempt questions confidently.
CDS 2 Exam 2025: Shift 2 Analysis: General Knowledge (GK)
The second shift from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM focused on General Knowledge. Students reported the paper as easy to moderate, covering topics like history, geography, polity, science, and current affairs.
The questions were straightforward and aligned with standard defence exam expectations. Many students managed to attempt the majority of the paper without much difficulty.
CDS 2 Exam 2025: Shift 3 Details: Elementary Mathematics
The third shift of the CDS 2 exam 2025, scheduled from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, will cover Elementary Mathematics. Students are advised to carry their admit cards and valid ID proof, follow hygiene protocols, and reach the centre at least 30 minutes before the exam.
The mathematics paper is expected to test numerical ability, algebra, trigonometry, and geometry topics, similar to previous years.
CDS 2 Exam 2025: Shift Timings Overview
CDS 2 Exam 2025: How to Download Answer Keys
After each shift, coaching institutes will upload the CDS 2 exam 2025 answer key for sets A, B, C, and D. Students can:
- Visit trusted educational websites.
- Use their login credentials to access the answer key.
- Compare responses and assess performance.
The UPSC will release the final answer key after the recruitment process concludes.
CDS 2 Exam 2025: Important Exam Day Guidelines
Candidates must follow these rules during the CDS 2 exam 2025:
- Carry an admit card and original photo ID like Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early; entry closes 10 minutes before the exam.
- Electronic gadgets, mobile phones, and calculators are not permitted.
- Answers must be marked with a black ballpoint pen.
- Negative marking applies for wrong answers.
- Students must follow hygiene norms inside the exam hall.