CDS Eligibility Criteria

Candidates interested  in applying for the Combined Defense Services (CDS) examination must fulfil the given eligibility criteria. The documents submitted by the candidates will be verified once they qualify for an interview/personal test. 

Key requisite in exam center:

Candidates must have an original photo id proof such as an Aadhar card/voter card/PAN card/passport/driving license or any other identification card issued by the Central or the State Government. Individuals should present the scanned copy during the filling of the online application form. The eligible candidates will be allowed for the examination only after being issued the admit card. The admit card will be available in e-format.

Conditions of Eligibility:

1. Nationality 

The candidates applying for the CDS examination should be unmarried. In addition to this, they should be either:

1. Indian citizen
2. A subject of Nepal
3. Candidate of Indian origin who has migrated from Burma, Pakistan, East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zaire and Ethiopia or Vietnam, Sri Lanka with the motive of settling permanently in India. 

For point 2 and 3: Candidates should have the eligibility certificate which is issued by the Government of India. 

The candidates who are Gorkha subjects of Nepal do not need the certificate of eligibility.

 2. Marital Status, Sex and Age restrictions 

a) For Indian Military Academy (IMA): 

Only unmarried male candidates can apply. They should be born not earlier than 2nd January 1999 and not later than 1st January 2004.

b) For Indian Naval Academy (INA):

Only unmarried male candidates can apply. They should be born not earlier than  2nd January 1999 and not later than 1st January 2004. 

c) For Air Force Academy: 

Candidates should be 20 to 24 years old as on 1st January 2023 (not born earlier than 2nd January 1999 and not later than 1st January 2003). The upper age limit is upto 26 years for candidates with current Commercial Pilot Licence  issued by DGCA (India). Only those candidates are eligible that are born not before 2nd January, 1997 and not later than 1st January, 2003.   This is applicable for candidates who are applying for CDS 2022 exam. 

Please note: Candidates who are below 25 years should be unmarried. Marriage is not allowed during the training period. Candidates who are 25 years+ and married are eligible to apply but during training time, they will not be provided married accommodation. Also, they are not allowed to live with their family out of the premises.

d) For Officers Training Academy (SSC Course for men)– 

Candidates should be unmarried and not born earlier than 2nd January 1998 and not later than 1st  January 2004.

e) For Officers Training Academy (SSC women non-technical course) – 

Unmarried women as well as women from given profiles such as issueless widows, and issueless divorcees who have not married again are eligible to apply. They should have been born not before 2nd January, 1998 and not after 1st  January, 2004. 

Male divorcee and widower candidates aren’t treated as unmarried for admission into INA/IMA/AFA/OTA, Chennai courses. Thus, they are not eligible for these courses.

Specifications for the date of birth of candidates:

The date of birth on the secondary school exam certificate/ matriculation certificate or the documents issued by an Indian university or in an extract from a Register of Matriculates that is maintained by a University and certified by a proper authority will be considered during the admission procedures. These documents need to be submitted after the declaration of the result of the written test. It should be noted that documents such as horoscopes, affidavits, birth extracts from the municipal corporation and other records will not be considered as age proofs. 

In case the matriculation/ secondary school exam certificates do not show the date of birth or only show the age completed in months or years, the candidate can show the self-attested copy of the matriculation/secondary school exam certificate and a self-attested certificate from the principal/headmaster of the institution from where the candidate passed the matriculation or secondary school exam. The document must show his/her exact age as found in the Admission record of the Institution. 

Note:  

1) Individuals must note that the date of birth recorded on matriculation/secondary school exam certificate or an equivalent certificate will only be considered by the commission and no request for its change will be granted or considered. 

2) Candidates have to fill in their date of birth and other details properly. In case of discrepancy, strict action can be taken against them by the commission according to the rules.

3. Educational Qualifications

a) For I.M.A. and Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai

Candidates should have a degree from any recognised university or equivalent.

b) For Indian Naval Academy

Candidates should have a degree in engineering from a recognized university or institution.

c) For Air Force Academy 

Candidates should have a valid degree from a recognized university with Physics and Math at 10+2 level or a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.

Candidates applying for Air Force/Navy/Army as their first preference must submit their certificates of graduation or provisional certificates on the date of commencement of the SSB interview.

Candidates in their final year or semester degree who are yet to pass their degree course or final exam can also apply if they do not have any backlog up to the last semester or the year for which results are declared. However, they will have to provide the proof of passing the examination at the time of commencement of the course. Candidates have to furnish proof for admission to IMA on or before January 1st 2023, INA on or before January 1st 2023 and IFA on or before November 13th 2022. The documents have to be submitted on or before April 1st 2023 for admission to Officers’ Training Academy. Failure to submit proof of passing the graduation degree examination by the specified date will result in rejection of the candidature.

Candidates with a professional or technical qualification that is recognized by the government as a degree are also eligible to apply for the examination. 

Exceptional case – The commission may allow a candidate who doesn’t possess any of the above-prescribed qualifications to apply for the examination, if he/she possesses the qualification that the commission finds justifiable.

Disqualification of application to the training course:

Admission of the candidates will be cancelled if: 

If the candidates are debarred by the Ministry of Defense to hold any commission in the services is not eligible for the examination.

It should be noted that the Air Force candidates who are suspended from flying training for failure to learn flying are eligible for the navigation/ground duty and other non-tech branches as per the vacancies. 

Additionally, the candidates removed on disciplinary grounds who were earlier granted admission to the Indian Military Training Academy, Officers Training Academy, Chennai, Indian Naval Academy or Air Force Academy cannot be considered for admission to the Short Service Commission in the Army, or be admitted to the Air Force Academy, Indian Naval Academy and Indian Military Academy. 

Candidates who were disqualified from the Indian Military Academy for not displaying officer-like qualities cannot be admitted in the course.

Candidates selected as Special Entry Naval Cadets but disqualified from the National Defence Academy or other training establishments due to lack of officer-like qualities are not eligible for admission in the Indian Navy.

Candidates disqualified from the Officers Training Academy, Indian Military Academy, NCC and other graduate courses for not displaying officer-like qualities are not eligible for the admission in the Short Service Commission in the Army.

Candidates previously disqualified from the graduate courses and NCC due to lack of officer-like qualities are not eligible for the Indian Military Academy.

Restrictions related to marriage during the training programme at Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy or Officers Training Academy, Chennai are as follows: 

Candidates pursuing training in the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Chennai, Indian Naval Academy or Air Force Academy must avoid marriage during the training.

Candidates who marry after applying, even if successful in the examination, are not eligible for training.

A candidate who marries during the training period will be considered disqualified and must return the funds incurred on her/him by the Government of India.

A candidate should complete his/her training before getting married.

Other restrictions for candidates in the Indian Naval Academy, Indian Military Academy or in the Indian Air Force Academy are given below:

Candidates admitted to the Indian Air Force Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Indian Military Academy are not eligible for any other commission. 

The candidates after their selection for training at Indian Air Force Academy, Indian Naval Academy and Indian Military Academy are not permitted to appear for any other interview or examination. 

Physical and Medical Standards for the candidates: (For Army) 

Candidates must fulfil the physical and medical standards for getting admitted to the training. The candidate will be termed unfit for training if he/she does not meet the criteria mentioned below. This can lead to the rejection of candidature.

The candidate should adhere to the following:

• No hereditary disease or deformity
• No history or evidence of mental health conditions such as epilepsy, enuresis, etc.
• No diseases of the endocrine system or the reticuloendothelial system
• No diseases of the throat or ear
• No hearing and visual impairments
• No visible scars that are progressive in nature
• No gross deformity in the body
• There should be no weak constitution or any imperfect development in the body
• No evidence of hernia in the body
• No swelling in the body
• No cysts, tumors or any swollen lymph nodes in the body
• No evidence of hypo or hyperpigmentation in the body
• Skin infections, warts, dermatitis, vitiligo, etc. and other progressive skin disorders
• Problems of the nervous system such as speech imbalance, etc
• Hernia, organomegaly, renal and ureteric stones, lesions and deformity of the genito-urinary system can lead to rejection of the candidate
• Tuberculosis, any signs or symptoms of tuberculosis, lesions or the tumors of the heart or any related organs
• Malocclusion of the teeth interfering with the normal mastication, difficulty in the opening mouth or any gross deformity
• Any case of cosmetic or post-traumatic surgery will be considered unfit before the completion of the 24-week period
• More than two mobile teeth will be considered unfit for the position
• Any type of cancerous condition
• Clicking and tenderness of the TMJ. The mouth must open not less than 30 mm when measured at the incisal edges
• Problems in the upper and lower jaw that interfere with mastication and other functions of the body
• Recurrent or pathological conditions of the jaw
• Hearing disabilities, lesions in the tympanic membranes, middle ear or eustachian tube
• Abnormal lips, palate or face formation
• Myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism, lesions of cornea, iris and retina
• Deformities and diseases of limbs such as short limbs, bow legs, deformed toes and fingers
• Musculoskeletal and deformities of the spine, pelvis chest and limbs can lead to rejection

Height and weight measurement standards 

Candidates must follow the following physical standards for the selection: 

• The body mass index of the candidates should be below 25
• The circumference of the waist should be less than 80 cm in females and 90 cm in males

Please note: If a candidate is below 17 years of age then the guidelines stated in ‘Indian Academy of Pediatrics growth charts for height, weight and BMI for 05-16 year old’s will be considered for evaluation. 

Specifications for male candidates: 

• The minimum height required for entering the Armed forces is 157 cm. Male candidates who are Gorkhas or belong to Kumaon, Garhwal and hilly areas in northeastern region should have a minimum height of 152 cm.

Specification for female candidates:

•  The minimum height required for entering the Armed forces is 152 cm. Female candidates who are Gorkhas or belong to Kumaon, Garhwal and hilly areas in the northeastern region should have a minimum height of 148 cm. 

Please note:

Candidates should have a minimum height of 163 cm if they are applying for the Flying branch. 

Further tests/examination:

Additionally, the candidates should have normal blood pressure, blood sugar fasting, pulse pressure, blood urea, creatinine, cholesterol, etc. for selection. However, candidates will have to undergo the following tests:

1. Chest X-Ray
2. Urine RE
3. USG abdomen and pelvis
4. Complete hemogram 

Visual Standards: For Army 

The candidates have to meet the following mentioned visual standards:

Please Note: 

If the candidate has undergone any type of kerato refractive procedure, they should present the certificate issued by the centre from which they have undergone the surgery, clearly mentioning the type and date of surgery.

Candidates who have undergone the radial keratotomy are considered permanently unfit.

If any candidate has conditions such as ligament tear, meniscus tear of any joint, or surgeries for injuries irrespective of the time duration, he/she will be rejected. 

Physical and Medical Standards for the candidates: (For Navy) 

Candidates applying for Navy must adhere to the following physical and medical standards:

Candidates should have normal blood pressure, blood sugar fasting, pulse pressure, blood urea, creatinine, cholesterol, etc. for selection. However, candidates will have to undergo the following tests:

1. Chest X-Ray PA View 
2. Urine RE/ME
3. USG abdomen and pelvis
4. Complete haemogram 

Physical standards:

a) Candidates should have sound mental and physical health. He/she should not be suffering from any diseases. 

b) Candidates should not display any weakness, bodily defects, weak constitution or being underweight. 

c) Candidates should not be overweight or obese.

1. Weight/Height

a) There is a standard minimum and maximum height and weight for every category of personnel.

In case, the weight of male candidates is more than the specified limit and there is evidence of boxing, wrestling, body building etc., they should meet the following criteria:

• Their body mass index should not be above 25
• The hip waist ratio should be less than 0.9 
• All the tests and levels should be within the normal limit

c) During medical tests, the candidate should meet the following conditions:

• Candidate should be sound and intelligent 
• The hearing ability of the candidate should be sound. He/should not be suffering from any nose, throat or ear injury/disease 
• Meet the visual standards. The eyes should be clear, bright and no presence of squint. The eye ball movement should be proper in all directions 
• Speech without impediment 
• Proper formation of chest 
• Lungs and heart should be sound
• Well and fully-developed limbs
• Joint should be free and fully mobile 
• Well formed toes and feet
• No congenital malformation or defects 
• No presence of acute or chronic diseases 
• Proper number of teeth 
• No Genito-urinary tract diseases 

There are high chances of a candidate getting rejected if he/she is suffering from:

• Skeletal deformity either acquired or hereditary
• Congenital malformation, imperfect development, weak constitution, muscular wasting 
• Deformed skull or head 
• Abnormal curvature or disease of the spine 
• Scoliosis 
• Amputation or asymmetry of limbs or torso 
• Deformed toes and feet 

2. Eyes 

• Manifest squint of any level 
• Visual acuity 
• Complicated or active trachoma or sequelae 
• Morbid or deformed condition of eyelids or eyes 

Visual Standards For NDA/NAVY:

For Kerato Refractive Surgery

• Candidates who have undergone Kerato refractive surgery are fit for recruitment. But they are not considered eligible for special cadres such as diving, MARCO and submarines. 
• Candidates will only be eligible if:

1. Surgery should not have been before 20 years of age 
2. Uncomplicated surgery before minimum 12 months of examination 
3. Axial length is less than or equal to 26 mm 
4. Normal retinal examination 
5. The pre-operative refractive error is not above +/-6.0 D
6. The residual refraction should be less than or equal to +-1.0 D Sph or Cyl 
7. The residual corneal thickness should not be less than 450 microns 

3. Ears, Nose and Throat 

a) Ears: 

Candidate should not have any:

• History or Recurrent Ear Ache
• Impairment Of Hearing
• Tinnitus Or Vertigo
• Unhealed Perforation Of The Tympanic Membrane
• Aural Discharge Or Sign Of Acute Or Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media
• Disease Of The External Meatus Including Atresia, Exostosis Or Neoplasm 
• Evidence Of Radical Or Modified Radical Mastoid Operation

Please note:

• Candidates should have the ability to hear forced whispers from a distance of 610 cms 
• A proper hearing from both the ears from a distance of 610 cms
• Display normal compliance in Tympanometry 

b)  Nose:

Candidates suffering from the following are not eligible:

• Disease Of The Bones Or Cartilages Of The Nose
• Nasal Polyps
• Marked Nasal Allergy
• Disease Of The Accessory Sinuses And Nasopharynx
• Atrophic Rhinitis

Please Note:- 

Simple nasal deformity not causing disfigurement, minor septal deviation not interfering with nasal airway and small traumatic septal perforation which are asymptomatic are acceptable.

c) Throat:

Candidates suffering from throat issues such as tonsils, conditions affecting the tongue, throat palate and disease or injury affecting the normal function of either mandibular joints are not eligible. In case the voice is not normal, the candidate is not acceptable. A pronounced stammer is not acceptable. 

4. Dental Condition 

Candidates should have a sufficient number of sound and natural teeth for effectively masticating. 

• Candidates should have at least 14 dental points. In case they are fewer than 14, the candidate will get rejected. The following are the dental points:

1. 1st molar, 2nd molar and 3rd developed molar with 2 points each 
2. All 32 teeth present with a total 20 or 22 counts 
3. Central incisor, lateral incisor, canine, 1st Premolar, 2nd Premolar and under development third molar with 1 point each

• Must have in each jaw:

1. Any 4 of the 6 anteriors 
2. Any 6 of the 10 posteriors 

• Candidates with severe pyorrhea will be rejected. If pyorrhoea is curable, the candidates’ application will be accepted. But, this will be decided by the Medical Officer or Dental officer
• In case the candidate has artificial dentures, that will not be counted while calculating dental points

5. Neck:

• Presence of tubercular or enlarged glands or any disease in the neck will be strictly rejected
• Thyroid gland diseases 

6. Sexually transmitted infections and skin diseases 

• Latent, active or congenital sexually transmitted diseases 
• Axillary, plantar, palmar hyperhidrosis 
• Scars causing marked disfigurement or disability 
• Skin diseases (exempted only if they are trivial and temporary) 

Please note: 

Any old or past healed scar on the groyne area or vagina/penis area suggesting past STI will call for a blood test  including HIV testing.

7. Respiratory system 

• Any evidence of pulmonary tuberculosis 
• History of Bronchial asthma or chronic cough 
• Diseases of pleurae or lungs or bronchi as detected under radiological examination

8. Cardiovascular System

• In case blood pressures exceeds 90 mm Hg diastolic and 140mm Hg systolic
• Tachycardia (Pulse Rate persistently over 96/min at rest), bradycardia (Pulse Rate persistently below 40/ min at rest), any abnormality of peripheral pulse
• Presence of murmurs, Organic or functional disease of blood vessels or heart or clicks on auscultation

9. Abdomen 

• Evidence of any disease of the gastro-intestinal tract
• Tenderness on abdominal palpation, evidence/ history of peptic ulcer or previous history of extensive abdominal surgery
• Enlargement of liver, gallbladder or spleen
• Hernia or inguinal or such a tendency 

Please note: 

Candidates who went through surgical procedure pertaining to varicocele, varicose veins, hernia/hydrocele will be considered fit if:

• 6 months have passed from the date of operation of hernia. 6 weeks have passed since other minor operations. 
• The abdominal musculature is fit 
• No recurrence of hernia or any other complications 
• Anal Fissure, Hemorrhoids and Fistula -in- Ano unless proper treatment has taken place

10. Genito-Urinary System 

• Genital organs diseases or any evidence pertaining to it 
• Bilateral undescended testis
• Unilateral undescended testis 

Note: If one testis is not there, it will not result in rejection unless the testis has been removed due to some disease or its absence has adversely affected the candidate’s physical/mental well-being.

• Malformation or diseases in urethra or kidneys 
• Nocturnal enuresis and Incontinence of urine 
• Any abnormality found on examining urine including glycosuria or albuminuria 

11. Central Nervous system 

• Tremors 
• Organic disease of central nervous system 
• Candidates having a history of fits and getting recurrent headaches or attacks of migraine will be rejected

12. Psychiatric disorders 

If a candidate has evidence or history of nervous instability or mental disease then he/she will not be deemed fit

Special point in case of Women candidates:

• Women candidates should not be pregnant 
• They should not have gynaecological disorders such as secondary or primary Menorrhagia, Amenorrhea or Dysmenorrhoea, etc 
• Candidates have to undergo Ultrasound examination of pelvic and abdominal organs for detecting any abnormalities of internal organs 

Physical and Medical Standards for the candidates: (For Air Force)  

Physical standards for the candidates are as follows:

1. Spine

A case of any old spine injury or fractures will be considered unfit. Any form of deformity or disease will be considered unfit and can lead to rejection.

2. Nerve 

Any case of nerve injuries such as pain, tingling or loss of function is considered unfit. 

3. Keloids 

Presence of large or multiple keloids can lead to rejection.

4. Surgical scars 

Minor or well-healed superficial scars are considered for employment. Big scars or unhealed ones can lead to rejection.

5. Birthmarks: 

Candidates should note that abnormal hypo or hyperpigmentation can lead to rejection. A local mole or nevus less than 10 cm is considered for employment. 

6. Subcutaneous swelling: 

Subcutaneous swelling such as lipomas will be considered unfit if they are interfering with the normal functions. A single neurofibroma will be considered fit and multiple neurofibromas with more than one spot will be considered unfit.

7. Cervical rib:

Cervical rib without any neurovascular compromise or condition is considered fit for the candidate. 

8. Cranio-facial Deformities:

Asymmetry of the face, skull or mandible which may lead to improper fitting of the headgear, helmet and oxygen mask will result in rejection.

9. History related to operations:

Candidates having had a major operation of the abdomen, partial or total removal of any organ is considered unfit for the role.

Measurements and physique 

Physical standards:

Candidates should meet the following physical standards.

1. Chest circumference and shape 

The circumference of the chest is 77 cm and the chest expansion should be 05 cm for all the candidates. 

2. Height, Sitting Height, Leg Length and Thigh Length.

The Minimum height required for the flying branch is 162.5 cm. Please find the below standard table for measurements:

157.5 cm is the minimum height required for the ground duty branches. The acceptable height for Gorkhas, hilly areas of Uttarakhand and Northeastern region of India is 5cm less. In case the candidate is from the Lakshadweep region, their height can be 2cm less.

3. Body Weight parameters

• In case the candidate is a male candidate and a non-NDA one, the standard ideal weight relative to age and height will apply 
• The criteria for the in-service candidates will be similar to serving personnel

In case the candidate exceeds the limits then ensure that:

• The BMI of the candidates should be below 27
• The waist hip ratio should be 0.9 for males and 0.8 for females
• The waist circumference should be lower than 89 cm for females and 94 cm for males

Candidates should follow Appendix A for the height and weight standards of males.

4. Cardiovascular system:

Previous evidence of fainting, palpitations, sweating, rheumatic fever, giddiness, etc. should be given consideration during the cardiovascular system examination.

Pulse: 

The normal pulse should be 60-100 bpm and it should be counted for one minute. Persistent sinus tachycardia and bradycardia is considered unfit. 

Blood pressure: 

Candidates are prone to suffering from White Coat hypertension during the examination. If the levels are consistently above 140/90 mm Hg, it is considered unfit. 

Cardiac murmurs:

Any evidence of organic cardiovascular problems will lead to rejection.

ECG: 

Candidates should pass the resting ECG record properly under the guidance of the specialist. 

Candidates with past cardiac surgery or procedures will be considered unfit for the position.  

5. Respiratory system

Pulmonary tuberculosis 

Evidence of residual scarring in pleura or parenchyma on the chest radiogram can lead to rejection. Old treated cases of pulmonary tuberculosis with no significant abnormality can be accepted if the diagnosis and treatment took place two years earlier. In these cases a CT scan, USG, ESR, PCR and fiberoptic bronchoscopy with bronchial lavage can be done under medical supervision. 

Pleural effusion 

Any evidence of pleural effusion or thickening can cause rejection.

Bronchitis 

History of cough, wheezing or bronchitis can be a sign of chronic bronchitis or any other form of chronic pathology of the respiratory system and can be considered unfit.

Bronchial asthma 

History of bronchial asthma or  repetitive attacks of wheezing and allergic rhinitis can cause rejection.

Radiograph of the chest 

Any evidence of disease in the lungs, mediastinum or pleura is deemed unfit for selection.

Thoracic surgery 

Candidates with a past history of resection of lung parenchyma will be considered unfit. Any type of thoracic surgery will be considered on a case to case basis.

6. Gastrointestinal System

Head to toe examination:

Evidence of liver failure or malabsorption, conditions related to the oral mucosa, gums and restriction to the opening of mouth will be noted and can lead to rejection.

Gastro duodenal disabilities 

Candidates suffering from gastroduodenal disabilities or have suffered in the past one year with proven peptic ulcers are not deemed eligible. 

Diseases of liver 

If there is a past history of liver diseases or jaundice, the candidate should be examined carefully. Candidates suffering from viral hepatitis or jaundice are considered unfit. A recovery period of 6 months should have passed and all their liver tests should be within the normal limits to be deemed fit.

Disease of spleen

Candidates who have undergone partial or total splenectomy are considered unfit.

Hernia 

Any form of abdominal hernia is considered unfit. Candidates should have well-healed scars after 6 months from any open or laparoscopic surgery to be considered fit for the position.

Abdominal surgery 

A candidate with a well-healed scar after an abdominal surgery will be considered fit after one year from the date of successful surgery. 

A candidate will be considered fit after 8 weeks of laparoscopic surgery  if they have no signs or symptoms. 

Anorectal conditions: 

The examiners should perform a digital rectal test to check and rule out polyps, rectal mass, prolapsed, fistulae, sinuses, fissures, anal skin tags, sentinel piles and haemorrhoids. 

Fit: 

After the rectal surgery for fissure, fistula, polyps, haemorrhoids, on the condition that there is no recurrent disease.

The presence of external skin tags 

Unfit: 

• Anal or rectal polyp
• Anal stricture
• Faecal incontinence
• Haemorrhoids (external or internal)
• Anal Fistula
• Rectal prolapse even after surgical correction
• Active anal fissure

Ultrasonography of Abdomen 

Liver 

Fit: 

Hepatic calcification if they are solitary and less than 1 cm

Solitary simple cyst with normal LFT and negative hydatid serology.

Normal anatomy of liver, IHBR, CBD, portal and hepatic veins.

Unfit: 

• Multiple hepatic calcifications or cluster > 1 cm.
• Multiple hepatic cysts of any size.
• Any haemangioma irrespective of the size and location.
• Portal vein thrombosis.
• Evidence of portal hypertension (PV >13 mm, collaterals, ascites).
• Fatty liver – Grade 2 and 3, grade 1 in presence of abnormal LFT.
• Solitary cyst > 2.5 cm.
• Solitary cyst of any size with thick walls, septations, papillary projections, calcifications and debris.
• Hepatomegaly exceeding 15 cm in mid-clavicular line.

Gallbladder 

Fit: 

Post open cholecystectomy is considered fit if one year has passed since the surgery with a healthy scar and no hernia.

Candidates who have undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy are considered fit if 08 weeks have passed since successful surgery. Wounds should be healed with no incisional hernia.

Normal echo anatomy of the gallbladder.

Unfit: 

• Gall bladder mass
• Gallbladder wall thickness > 05 mm.
• Septate gallbladder
• Persistently contracted gallbladder on repeat USG
• Incomplete Cholecystectomy
• Cholelithiasis or biliary sludge
• Choledocolithiasis.
• Polyp of any size and number
• Choledochal cyst

Spleen 

Unfit 

• Candidates with partial or total splenectomy are considered unfit
• Asplenia 
• Lesions in the spleen 
• Spleen more than 13 cm in longitudinal axis

Pancreas 

Unfit

• Any structural abnormality
• Space Occupying Lesion/ Mass lesion.
• Features of chronic pancreatitis (calcification, ductal abnormality, atrophy).

Peritoneal Cavity

Unfit

• Ascites.
• Solitary mesenteric or retroperitoneal lymph node >1 cm. (Single retroperitoneal LN <1 cm and normal in architecture may be considered fit).
• Two or more lymph nodes of any size
• Any mass or cyst

Urogenital System 

1. It should be noted that enquiry needs to be done for altering in urinary steam or micturition. For example: poor stream, frequency, dysuria, etc. Recurring attacks of haematuria, pyelonephritis, etc will not be considered. Enquiry will be made regarding attacks of acute nephritis, history of renal colic, urethral discharges, passing of stones, loss of kidney, etc will be done in detail. In case a candidate has any enuresis history in past or present, it will be examined. History of Sexually transmitted diseases and urethral discharges should be obtained. 
2. The genitalia of the candidate will be examined. It is done to check whether there are any congenital anomalies such as ectopic testis, undescended testis, ambiguous genitalia, epispadias, hypospadias, etc. Issues such as varicocele, hydrocele, urethral stricture, phimosis, meatal stenosis, etc. must be ruled out. The following criteria will be considered:

a) Undescended Testis (UDT) 

1. Unfit – If there is any abnormal position of testis irrespective of being bilateral or unilateral, the candidate will be deemed unfit. In case, the candidate suffers from bilateral orchidectomy due to torsion, trauma or infection then also he is regarded unfit. 
2. Fit – The candidate will be considered fit after 4 weeks of correctively operated UDT on the condition that the testis comes in its normal location. Also the wounds should be healed properly. 

b) Varicocele 

1. Unfit – All the grades of current varicocele 
2. Fit – In case there is no postoperative complication or testicular atrophy after 4 weeks of surgery, the candidate is fit for service. 

c) Hydrocele 

1. Unfit – If there is current hydrocele on either side then the candidate is considered unfit. 
2. Fit – If there are no postoperative complications after 4 weeks of surgery then the candidate will be deemed fit. Also the wounds should have completely healed. 

d) Epididymal Cyst/ Mass, Spermatocele

1. Unfit – If there is presence of mass or cyst then candidate is unfit 
2. Fit – If a candidate’s wounds are completely healed post operation and there is no recurrence, the candidate is considered fit. 

e) Epididymitis/ Orchitis

1. Unfit – If there is epididymitis/ tuberculosis or  current orchitis, then the candidate will be considered unfit. 
2. Fit – If the condition is resolved properly post-treatment, the candidate is deemed fit. 

f) Epispadias/ Hypospadias

1. Unfit – Generally all the candidates in this situation are unfit. Only those candidates who have a granular variety of hypospadias and epispadias will be accepted. 
2. Fit – In case the candidate has recovered and at least 8 weeks have passed since surgery with no complications, the candidate will be considered fit. 

g) Penile Amputation. 

The candidate will be considered unfit

h) Phimosis

1. Unfit – If the candidate is suffering from phimosis that is interfering with local hygiene and is associated with  Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans, the candidate is deemed unfit.
2. Fit – In case, the wounds of a candidate are completely healed following 4 weeks of surgery and no complications arise, he will be considered fit. 

i) Meatal Stenosis

1. Unfit – If the candidate is suffering currently from this issue then he is unfit 
2. Fit: If the condition is mild or if the wounds of the candidate are healed after 4 weeks of surgery without any complications. 

j) Stricture Urethra, Urethral Fistula. 

• Candidates currently suffering from or history of this issue will be declared unfit 
• In case of intersex condition or sex reassignment surgery the candidate will be considered unfit. 
• Nephrectomy – The candidate is deemed  unfit, no matter what the type of surgery
• Renal Transplant recipients – Candidates are unfit 

Urine examination:

1. Proteinuria. This will be a reason for rejection of a candidate unless proven to be orthostatic. 
2. Glycosuria: If there is presence of glycosuria, the blood sugar will be examined. Fitness will be determined on the basis of the values. 
3. Urinary Infection: If the candidate has a past history of urinary infection, a test or renal investigation will take place. If the condition is found to persist, it could lead to rejection.  
4. Haematuria: If candidates are suffering from this issue, they have to undergo complete renal investigation.  

Glomerulonephritis

1. If the candidate has recovered completely – there is a high recovery rate in the acute phase – he/she might be assessed fit only after a minimum of 1 year after recovery. 
2. In case the situation is chronic, candidature will be rejected. 

Sexual Transmitted Diseases and Human-Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV):

Candidates suffering from these will be rejected. 

Ultrasonography of the Abdomen – Urogenital System

1. Kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder

a) Unfit

(i) Congenital structural abnormalities of kidneys or urinary tract 

(aa) Unilateral renal agenesis.

(ab) Unilateral or bilateral hypoplastic/ contracted kidney of size less than 08 cm. (ac) Malrotation of the kidney.

(ad) Horseshoe kidney. (ae) Ptosed kidney.

(af) Crossed fused/ ectopic kidney.

(ii) Complex cyst/ polycystic disease/ multiple or bilateral cysts.

(iii) Simple single renal cyst of more than 1.5 cm size in one kidney.

(iv) Hydronephrosis or Hydroureteronephrosis.

(v) Renal/ ureteric/ vesical mass.

(vi) Calculi – Renal/ Ureteric/ Vesical.

b) Fit – Solitary, unilateral, simple renal cyst <1.5 cm provided the cyst is peripherally located, round/ oval, with thin smooth wall and no loculations, with posterior enhancement, no debris, no septa and no solid component.

1. The unfit candidates have to undergo specific investigations and detailed clinical examination during the appeal/review medical board.
2. Kidneys having isolated abnormality of echo texture will be considered fit if the DTPA scan, CECT kidney and renal function turn out normal. 

2. Scrotum and Testis: 

The following cases will be deemed unfit:

• Bilateral atrophic testis
• Any abnormal location of testis (Unilateral or Bilateral)
• Hydrocele
• Varicocele (Unilateral or bilateral)
• Epididymal lesions e.g. cyst

3. Endocrine System 

• Proper study will be undertaken in case of endocrine conditions. 
• Issues pertaining to disorders of adrenal glands or thyroid, diabetes mellitus, gonads, etc should be checked 
• Any endocrine disorders may cause rejection of candidature 
• In case there is any doubt, the opinion of an endocrinologist or medical specialist will be considered
• In case of thyroid swelling and abnormal thyroid hormone levels, the candidate will be rejected 
• Candidates suffering from diabetes mellitus will be rejected

4. Dermatological system 

• Careful examination of the skin is required to check the presence of any acute or chronic infection. Any borderline conditions should be referred to the dermatologist
• Acute skin infections and non-communicable diseases that have a temporary course may not cause rejection
• Candidates having a history of sexual exposure to Commercial Sex Workers or have evidence of healed penile sores in the form of scars may be considered permanently unfit even in the absence of an STD

Candidates are considered unfit if they have the following chronic or recurrent skin conditions:

• Condition of palmoplantar hyperhidrosis
• Mild acne consisting of a few papules localized on the face is acceptable
• Palmoplantar keratoderma with hyperkeratotic and fissured skin over the palms, heels or soles is unfit
• Ichthyosis involving the upper and lower limb is considered unfit
• Mild xerosis can be considered fit
• The presence of any form of keloid is considered unfit
• Onychomycosis of finger or toenails is considered unfit
• Mild discoloration of a single nail without any dystrophy is considered acceptable
• Giant congenital melanocytic naevi is considered unfit for there is a malignant potential
• Warts or  Callosities are considered fit three months after the treatment and no recurrence
• Psoriasis is considered unfit
• Candidates suffering from a minor degree of leucoderma affecting the covered parts of the body are considered fit
• Vitiligo limited to the glans penis is considered fit
• A history of chronic or recurrent skin infections is considered unfit for service
• Any evidence of leprosy can lead to rejection
• Naevus depigmentosus and Beckers Naevus might be deemed fit butIntradermal naevus, vascular naevi are to be regarded as unfit
• Pityriasis versicolor is considered unfit
• Any type of fungal infection on the body is considered unfit.
• Scrotal eczema could be considered fit following recovery
• Cavities can be considered fit if mild in nature and no systematic association is observed
• Intertrigo may be considered fit after recovery
• Ulcers of the genitalia are considered unfit for service
• Scabies is considered fit only after recovery
• Alopecia  areata – single and a small – lesion on the scalp is acceptable. Multiple lesions can lead to rejection

5. Musculoskeletal system and physical activity 

Candidate is examined physically on the basis of parameters such as height, weight, age and physical stamina with training. 

Spinal conditions 

Evidence of past diseases or injury of the spinal or sacroiliac joints which has been prevented by the candidate by following a physically active life can cause rejection from the commission. Surgical treatment, spinal fracture or prolapsed intervertebral discs history can cause rejection.

Evaluation of the spine:

• Restriction of the spine movements, deformities or tenderness in the spine or any form of abnormalities is considered unfit
• Expansion of chest, gross kyphosis, restriction of full spinal movements or affecting the military bearing activities is considered unfit
• Scoliosis is considered unfit. Any form of the pathological condition if found in the spine should be recommended for the radiographic examination
• Spina bifida
• Congenital defects overlying in the spinal injuries 
• Presence of lipoma 
• Palpable spina bifida  
• Abnormal findings on the neurological examination 

Radiographic spine 

Candidates applying for the flying duties must have the radiograph [AP and the lateral view] of the lumbosacral, thoracic and cervical spine. Candidates applying for the ground duties can have a radiographic test of the spine if necessary under the supervision of the medical officer specialist. 

Spinal conditions considered unfit for the air force duties: 

• Congenital/ Developmental Anomalies
• Wedge Vertebra
• Hemivertebra
• Anterior Central Defect
• Cervical Ribs (Unilateral/ Bilateral) with demonstrable neurological or circulatory deficit
• Spina Bifida:- All types are unfit except in sacrum and LV5 (if completely sacralised)
• Loss of Cervical Lordosis when assessed with clinically restricted movement of cervical spine
• Atlanto-occipital and Atlanto-axial anomalies
• Incomplete Block (fused) vertebra at any level in cervical, dorsal or lumbar spine

Traumatic conditions 

• Spondylolysis/ Spondylolisthesis
• Compression fracture of vertebra
• Intervertebral Disc Prolapse
• Schmorl’s Nodes at more than one level

Infective 

• Infective spondylitis 
• Tuberculosis and other granulomatous diseases of spine 

Autoimmune 

• Rheumatoid Arthritis and allied disorders
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Other rheumatological disorders

Degenerative 

• Spondylosis
• Degenerative Joint Disorders
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Osteoarthrosis/ osteoarthritis
• Scheuermann’s Disease (Adolescent Kyphosis)

Any other form of spine abnormality 

Conditions affecting the assessment of upper limbs 

• Deformities in the formation of the upper limbs can cause rejection of the candidates. In case the candidates are suffering from the amputation of the limb he/she can be rejected. 
• Healed fractures 

In the following conditions the healed fractures are not acceptable. 

• Fractures involving articular surfaces
• Fractures associated with neurovascular deficit
• Malunited fractures
• Fracture causing impairment of function
• Fractures with implant in‐situ
• Fracture of the upper limb recovered 6 months after the injury with none of the conditions mentioned above is acceptable after examination by the surgeon

Fingers and hands 

Syndactyly and polydactyly is considered unfit. Deformities and movement limitations of the limb are considered unfit.

Wrist: Limitation of the wrist movement will be examined according to the degree of the stiffness. 

Elbow: Mild limitation of the movement is considered acceptable if the functional capacity of the candidate is appropriate.

Cubitus varus of more than 5 degrees will be considered unfit.

Ankylosis is considered unfit.

Shoulder girdle: Recurrent dislocation of the shoulder with or without any form of surgery is considered unfit.

Clavicle: Nonunion of old fractures of the clavicle can lead to rejection. 

Conditions affecting the lower limbs 

• Hallux valgus angle of more than 20 degrees and first second metatarsal angle of more than 10 degree is considered unfit 
• Hallux rigidus is unfit for the position
• Single flexible mild hammertoe without any signs or symptoms can be accepted
• Loss of toes can lead to rejection
• Extra digits can lead to rejection
• Pes planus [flat fleet]:
• If the arches of the feet reappear standing on toes, candidates can skip and run properly on the toes and feet are mobile, painless and supple the candidate is fit for the position
• Pes cavus and talipes [club foot]
• Mild degree of pes cavus without any functional deformity is considered acceptable. Moderate or severe form of the pes cavus can lead to the rejection
• Ankle joints: any evidence of previous injuries or limitation to the movement of ankle joints can lead to rejection
• Knee joint: any form of ligamentous laxity is unacceptable Candidates undergoing the ACL surgery are unfit for the position
•  Genu valgum with intermalleolar distance of more than 5 cm in males and more than 8 cm in females is considered unfit
• Bow legs with an intercondylar distance of more than 7 cm are unfit for the position
• Genu recurvatum 

If the hyperextension of the knee is more than 10 degree and is without any form of deformity the candidate is considered fit.

• Lesions of the hip joint and arthritis can lead to rejection

6. Peripheral vascular system:

• Varicose veins: active cases of the varicose veins are considered unfit for the position
• Arterial system: any form of abnormalities of the arteries and blood vessels is considered unfit
• Lymphoedema: evidence of past or current disease makes the candidate unfit for service

7. Central nervous system 

1. Candidates having a history of mental illness or psychological affiliations should be investigated and referred to a trained professional. 
2. History with insomnia, bedwetting, phobias and nightmares will be the cause of rejection.
3. Common types of headaches due to head injury or migraine that can be severe and wherein consultation from the doctor is required can lead to rejection.
4. History of epilepsy can be a reason for rejection.
5. Recurrent attacks of heatstroke, hyperpyrexia or heat exhaustion can lead to rejection from the position.
6. A severe head injury can be the reason for the rejection.
7. Any past evidence of psychological instability, mental disease or suicide of a family member/relative should be properly examined and referred to the psychiatrist for further evaluation.
8. Any history of emotional instability, nervous breakdown or mental diseases should be examined properly.
9. Candidates having mental instability and psychoneurosis are unfit for the position. 
10. Candidates suffering from psychosis should be rejected. 
11. Evidence of neurological deficit should be considered unfit. 
12. Basal electroencephalogram: candidates with EEG abnormalities should be rejected if they have the following: 

• Background Activity: Focal, excessive and high amplitude beta activity/hemispherical asymmetry of more than 2.3 Hz/generalized and focal runs of slow waves approaching background activity in amplitude
• Hyperventilation: Paroxysmal spikes and slow waves/spikes/focal spike pattern.
• Photo Stimulation: Bilaterally synchronous or focal paroxysmal spikes and slow waves persisting in post-photic stimulation period/suppression or driving response over one 

Ear, nose and throat 

Nose and para nasal sinuses:

Any of the following conditions can lead to rejection.

• Atrophic rhinitis
• Any history/clinical evidence suggestive of allergic rhinitis/ vasomotor rhinitis will entail rejection
• Any infection of the paranasal sinuses will be declared unfit 
• Current nasal polyposis is a cause for rejection 
• Gross external deformity of the nose causing cosmetic deformity may be rejected if it adversely impacts military bearing
• Obstruction to free-breathing as a result of a marked septal deviation 
• Septal perforation is unacceptable

Oral cavity 

Unfit: 

• Current/ operated cases of leukoplakia, erythroplakia, submucous fibrosis, ankyloglossia and oral carcinoma
• Current oral ulcers/ growths and mucous retention cysts
• Trismus due to any cause
• Cleft palate, even after surgical correction

Fit:

• Completely healed oral ulcers
• Operated cases of the mucous retention cyst with no benign histology. The evaluation must be done in 4 weeks after the surgery
• Submucous cleft palate with or without bifid uvula not causing any form of eustachian tube dysfunction can be accepted

Pharynx and larynx 

• Any ulcerative/ mass lesion of the pharynx
• Candidates in whom tonsillectomy is indicated. Such candidates may be accepted at least 02 weeks after successful surgery
• Cleft palate
• Any disabling condition of the pharynx or larynx
• Chronic laryngitis, vocal cord palsy, laryngeal polyps and growths

Hearing loss 

The following conditions can lead to rejection.

• Any reduction less than 600 cm in CV/ FW
• Wherever PTA is indicated and thresholds are obtained, the audiometric loss is greater than 20 db, in frequencies between250 and 8000 Hz
• Free field hearing loss is a cause for rejection

External ear 

The following defects in the external ear are considered unfit:

• Gross deformity of pinna which may hamper wearing of uniform
• Cases of chronic otitis externa
• Narrowing of EAM or neoplasm prevents a proper examination of the eardrum
• Granulation or polyp in external auditory canal

Middle ear

Any of the following conditions can lead to the rejection of a candidate:

1. Any residual perforation in cases of old otitis media.
2. Marked retraction or restriction in TM mobility on pneumatic otoscopy.
3. Any hearing impairment on forced Whisper test.
4. Deranged pure tone audiometry thresholds.
5. Tympanometry showing patterns other than Type ‘A’ tympanogram.
6. Any implanted hearing devices
7. After middle ear surgeries viz. stapedectomy, ossiculoplasty, any type of canal-wall down mastoidectomy.
8. Current otitis media of any type.
9. Attic, central or marginal perforation.

Ocular muscle balance 

The acceptability conditions are as follows:

• Objective Convergence. Average is from 6.5 to 8 cm. It is poor at 10 cm and above
• Subjective Convergence (SC). This indicates the end point of binocular vision under the stress of convergence