How Age is Calculated for Government Exams in India (UPSC, CDS, NDA, SSC)
Confused about how age is calculated for Indian government exams? Whether you’re applying for UPSC, CDS, NDA, or SSC, knowing your exact age as per official cut-off dates is critical.
This guide explains how age is calculated, what cut-off dates apply, and where most candidates make mistakes.
Why Age Calculation Matters in Government Exams
Age is a key eligibility factor in most public sector exams. A difference of even 1 day can disqualify you.
- 🧾 Documents will be verified
- 📆 Age is calculated as of a specific date
- ⚠️ Rules vary by exam and category
General Rule for Age Calculation
Most exams calculate your age as of a fixed cut-off date defined in the notification.
Formula:
Age = Cut-off Date – Date of Birth
Use this age to compare against minimum and maximum allowed limits.
UPSC Civil Services (IAS, IPS, IFS)
| Category | Age Range | Cut-Off Date |
|---|---|---|
| General | 21 – 32 years | August 1 |
| OBC | Up to 35 years | August 1 |
| SC/ST | Up to 37 years | August 1 |
📌 Your age is calculated as of August 1 of the exam year (e.g., August 1, 2025).
CDS (IMA, INA, AFA, OTA)
CDS age depends on the course start date, not exam date.
| Academy | Age Range | Based On |
|---|---|---|
| IMA | 19 – 24 years | Course start date |
| AFA | 20 – 24 years | Course start date |
| OTA | 19 – 25 years | Course start date |
📌 Always check the official CDS notification for DOB ranges.
NDA (National Defence Academy)
- NDA 1 (April Session): Age as of January 1
- NDA 2 (September Session): Age as of July 1
| Age Limit | 16.5 – 19.5 years |
|---|---|
| DOB Range | Defined per session |
✅ Male and female candidates can apply.
SSC CGL
- Age is calculated as of January 1 of the recruitment year.
- Varies by post (18–27, 20–30, etc.)
- OBC/SC/ST/PwD get standard relaxations.
📌 Check SSC notification carefully — some posts have specific DOB ranges.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using the exam date instead of the cut-off date
- ❌ Rounding off age without calculating months/days
- ❌ Ignoring category-based relaxations
- ❌ Using wrong date format (MM/DD/YYYY vs DD/MM/YYYY)
Use an Age Calculator Instead
To avoid errors, use these free tools:
They calculate your age as per the correct cut-off and tell you if you’re eligible.
FAQ – Government Exam Age Rules
Final Thoughts
Age limits for government exams in India are strict and specific. Whether it’s UPSC, SSC, CDS, or NDA — always calculate your age as per the official cut-off date, not just your birthday.
📌 For fastest and most accurate results, use our free age calculators linked above.
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