The Combined Defence Services Examination (II) 2016 remains an important reference point for defence aspirants preparing for upcoming CDS exams. Candidates who appeared in the 2016 examination, as well as those currently preparing, often look for the official cut-off marks to understand the competition level and minimum qualifying scores. This article explains the significance of the CDS (II) 2016 cut-off marks and how aspirants can download the official PDF released by the exam authority.
I am writing about this topic because cut-off marks play a major role in shaping preparation strategy for defence examinations. Many aspirants focus only on syllabus and mock tests but ignore previous years’ cut-offs, which can offer realistic targets. The CDS (II) 2016 cut-off data helps candidates understand how marks vary across courses and how performance in the written exam translates into selection for the next stages.
About the Combined Defence Services Examination
The Combined Defence Services Examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit officers for the Indian Armed Forces. Through CDS, candidates are selected for prestigious institutions such as the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers’ Training Academy.
The selection process includes a written examination followed by the Services Selection Board interview, medical examination, and final merit listing.
Why CDS (II) 2016 Cut-Off Marks Are Important
Although the exam was conducted in 2016, its cut-off marks are still relevant for aspirants. They help candidates understand the difficulty level of the paper and the score required to clear the written stage.
By comparing multiple years’ cut-offs, aspirants can identify trends, understand safe score ranges, and avoid unrealistic expectations during preparation.
CDS (II) 2016 Official Cut-Off Marks – Key Highlights
Here is a brief overview of the CDS (II) 2016 cut-off details:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Examination | Combined Defence Services Examination (II) 2016 |
| Conducting Authority | UPSC |
| Exam Type | Written Examination |
| Courses | IMA, INA, AFA, OTA |
| Cut-Off Type | Official UPSC Cut-Off |
| Category-Wise | Yes |
The cut-offs were released separately for different academies and stages of selection.
How to Download CDS (II) 2016 Cut-Off Marks PDF
Candidates can download the official CDS (II) 2016 cut-off marks PDF by following these steps:
- Visit the official UPSC website
- Go to the “Examinations” section
- Click on “Cut-Off Marks”
- Look for “Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2016”
- Open the PDF and download it for reference
Downloading the cut-off only from the official UPSC website ensures accuracy and authenticity.


















