CDSE OTA Score for SSB Call: How Much is Required?

To be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, candidates from the Officers Training Academy (OTA) through the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE) must meet a score that is within the cutoff set by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The cutoff can vary each year based on the exam's difficulty level and the number of candidates. Typically, the cutoff for OTA is lower than that for the Indian Military Academy (IMA).

Recent Cutoff Trends for OTA

As of the latest information, the cutoff scores for OTA in recent years have ranged approximately between 80 to 100 marks out of 300 in the written exam. It is crucial to check the official UPSC notifications or their website for the most accurate and up-to-date cutoff scores for the specific year of interest.

For OTA, candidates need to qualify in both papers. A sectional cutoff of 20 marks per paper and an overall cutoff marks that vary from year to year should be kept in mind. Here are some of the previous year's cutoff scores for reference:

Year Sectional Cutoff Total Cutoff CDS 2016-II 36 72 CDS 2016-I 34 68 CDS 2015-II 42 84 CDS 2015-I 43 86

In my opinion, a score of 80-90 marks is considered safe. The difficulty level of the graduate-level exam is typically not high, and the actual challenge lies in the time limit. Aim to answer as many questions correctly as possible within the given time frame.

Factors Influencing Cutoff Scores

The exact cutoff score is not a hard and fast rule. It depends on the difficulty of the examination. For instance, a score between 95 to 100 marks would likely be sufficient to secure an SSB call. However, scoring between 55 in English and 40 in General Knowledge (GK) is generally enough to get shortlisted for the OTA SSB.

It is also essential to prepare GK thoroughly, focusing on history and geography, to enhance your chances of achieving a competitive score. The cutoff scores may change each year, so it is advisable to keep an eye on official UPSC notifications for updates.

The CDSE OTA exam is designed to test your aptitude, mental ability, knowledge, and general awareness. By preparing diligently and focusing on the correct areas, you can increase your chances of securing a call for the SSB interview.

All the best for your CDSE OTA preparation and the D-day exam! Stay focused and committed to your goals.