Best 11 Coaching Institutes in Aurangabad for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC CDS) – Combined Defence Services Fees, Results, Reviews & Admission Guide

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC CDS) – Combined Defence Services examination is one of the most prestigious gateways for graduates to join the Indian Armed Forces as Commissioned Officers. Whether your dream is to lead in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force, the journey requires more than just academic knowledge—it demands a specific “Officer Like Quality” (OLQ) and rigorous mental preparation.

Choosing the right coaching institute in Aurangabad is a critical decision that can determine your success. Aurangabad, now officially known as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, has evolved into a powerhouse for defense education in Maharashtra. With the presence of elite government institutions like the Services Preparatory Institute (SPI), the city has developed a unique ecosystem of private academies that specialize in defense training. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the top 11 coaching centers to help you navigate your UPSC CDS preparation journey effectively.

Why Choose Coaching Institutes in Aurangabad?

Aurangabad is widely regarded as the “Defense Hub” of Maharashtra for several reasons:

• Established Defense Ecosystem: The city is home to SPI, which has created a culture of discipline and competitive excellence that private institutes have successfully emulated.
• Experienced Faculty: Many retired defense officers and subject matter experts reside in or travel to Aurangabad to provide authentic SSB guidance and written exam mentorship.
• Competitive Environment: With thousands of aspirants flocking to the city, the level of competition keeps students motivated and benchmarked against the best.
• Integrated Facilities: Unlike many metro cities, coaching centers in Aurangabad often offer expansive campuses (up to 50+ acres) that include physical training grounds and obstacle courses essential for CDS aspirants.
• Cost-Effective Education: Compared to cities like Delhi or Dehradun, Aurangabad offers high-quality coaching and residential facilities at a much more affordable price point.

How to Choose the Best Coaching Institute for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC CDS) – Combined Defence Services?

Before enrolling, evaluate each center based on these essential parameters:

• Faculty Experience: Check if the teachers are familiar with the latest UPSC CDS trends. Presence of ex-military officers for SSB guidance is a major plus.
• Past Results: Look for consistent selections in recent years rather than outdated success stories.
• Study Material: Ensure they provide updated, comprehensive notes that cover English, Elementary Mathematics, and General Knowledge.
• Batch Size: Smaller batches (30–40 students) allow for personalized attention and better doubt-solving.
• Infrastructure: For CDS, physical fitness is as important as the written test. Check if they have a dedicated ground for PT and GTO tasks.
• Test Series: Regular mock tests that simulate the actual UPSC environment are non-negotiable.

List of Best 11 Coaching Institutes in Aurangabad for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC CDS) – Combined Defence Services

Rank 1: Major Kulthe Defence Education Institute (MKDEI)

• Overview: MKDEI is arguably the most premium private defense academy in the region, headed by Major C. V. Kulthe (Retd), an ex-officer with a track record of grooming over 300 officers.
• Courses Offered: CDS, NDA, AFCAT, and SSB Interview preparation.
• Teaching Methodology: A blend of rigorous academic classroom sessions and daily physical training on their 52-acre campus.
• Faculty Details: Led by Major Kulthe himself, supported by subject experts in General Studies and Mathematics.
• Fee Structure: Range from ₹45,000 to ₹85,000 depending on the course duration and residential options.
• Past Results: High success rate in both written exams and SSB recommendations.
• Infrastructure: 52-acre lush green campus, digital classrooms, library, and full obstacle course.
• Availability: Primarily Offline (Residential).
• Pros: Authentic military-style discipline mentorship by an ex-officer.
• Cons: Higher fee bracket compared to smaller centers.
• Best For: Serious aspirants looking for a residential, military-style environment.

Rank 2: Defence Career Academy (DCA)

• Overview: Established in 2007, DCA is one of the oldest private institutes in Maharashtra recognized for its holistic development approach.
• Courses Offered: CDS, NDA, Navy, and Air Force technical/non-technical batches.
• Teaching Methodology: Focuses on conceptual clarity for the written exam followed by personality development.
• Faculty Details: A mix of academic professors and retired defense personnel.
• Fee Structure: Approximately ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per year.
• Past Results: Thousands of cadets placed in various defense wings over two decades.
• Infrastructure: Modern campus with hostel, mess, and sports facilities.
• Availability: Offline and Hybrid.
• Pros: Well-established brand extensive study material.
• Cons: Large student strength can sometimes reduce individual attention.
• Best For: Beginners who need a solid foundation from scratch.

Rank 3: Plutus Academy

• Overview: A top-rated institute known for its tech-enabled learning and highly qualified faculty.
• Courses Offered: CDS, UPSC Civil Services, and Banking.
• Teaching Methodology: Emphasis on data-driven learning and regular performance tracking through software.
• Faculty Details: Highly experienced teachers with over 10 years of experience in competitive coaching.
• Fee Structure: ₹30,000 to ₹50,000.
• Past Results: Consistent top performers in the written CDS exam.
• Infrastructure: Standard coaching setup with digital resources.
• Availability: Online and Offline.
• Pros: Excellent for the written part of the CDS great online support.
• Cons: Less focus on physical training compared to specialized defense academies.
• Best For: Students prioritizing the written exam score.

Rank 4: Defence Career Institute (DCI)

• Overview: Located near Deolai, DCI is known for its specialized “SPI/CDS Unit” that focuses specifically on UPSC patterns.
• Courses Offered: CDS, NDA, and SSB coaching.
• Teaching Methodology: Small batch sizes to ensure every student’s doubts are addressed.
• Faculty Details: Expert mentors focused on General Knowledge and English.
• Fee Structure: Competitive pricing around ₹35,000 to ₹50,000.
• Past Results: Strong track record in the CDS written exam.
• Infrastructure: Dedicated study halls and library access.
• Availability: Offline.
• Pros: Personalized attention located in a quiet learning environment.
• Cons: Limited hostel capacity.
• Best For: Students who prefer a focused, small-group study environment.

Rank 5: Garud Zep Career Academy

• Overview: A highly energetic academy that focuses heavily on the physical and mental transformation of the cadet.
• Courses Offered: CDS, Police Bharti, and Defence exams.
• Teaching Methodology: Intense physical training combined with daily GK and Math classes.
• Faculty Details: Mentors like Mr. Sonawane provide personalized motivation and guidance.
• Fee Structure: Very affordable, approx ₹15,000 to ₹30,000.
• Past Results: Excellent results in physical fitness tests and written exams.
• Infrastructure: Basic classrooms but excellent outdoor training facilities.
• Availability: Offline.
• Pros: Highly motivational affordable fees.
• Cons: Basic infrastructure compared to premium academies.
• Best For: Physically active aspirants and those on a budget.

Rank 6: Sahakar Defence Academy

• Overview: Located on the Nashik-Aurangabad road, it provides a comprehensive 360-degree training module.
• Courses Offered: CDS, NDA, and MPSC.
• Teaching Methodology: Interactive sessions and weekly mock tests.
• Faculty Details: Qualified teachers focusing on the UPSC syllabus.
• Fee Structure: ₹25,000 to ₹45,000.
• Past Results: Notable selections in the Indian Army.
• Infrastructure: Includes library, physical grounds, and cultural event platforms.
• Availability: Offline.
• Pros: Focuses on stage confidence and personality development.
• Cons: Distance from the main city center.
• Best For: Students looking for overall personality growth.

Rank 7: Public Service & Leadership Academy (PSL Academy)

• Overview: A premium coaching center in Osmanpura focusing on administrative and defense services.
• Courses Offered: UPSC CDS, NDA, and AFCAT.
• Teaching Methodology: Strategic planning with a focus on leadership qualities.
• Faculty Details: Specialized faculty for English and General Studies.
• Fee Structure: ₹30,000 to ₹55,000.
• Past Results: Growing number of successful candidates in CDS written.
• Infrastructure: Modern, air-conditioned classrooms.
• Availability: Offline.
• Pros: Excellent location high-quality study notes.
• Cons: No dedicated campus for physical training.
• Best For: Working students or local residents.

Rank 8: Resonance Academy

• Overview: Known for its academic excellence across various competitive exams.
• Courses Offered: CDS and Civil Services.
• Teaching Methodology: Comprehensive coverage of the syllabus with a modular approach.
• Faculty Details: Academic experts with deep knowledge of the UPSC curriculum.
• Fee Structure: ₹35,000 to ₹50,000.
• Past Results: Reliable success in competitive exams.
• Infrastructure: Standard coaching facilities.
• Availability: Online and Offline.
• Pros: High-quality academic pedagogy.
• Cons: Generalist approach rather than defense-only focus.
• Best For: Students who want a strong academic foundation.

Rank 9: Shree Swaminarayan Defence Academy (SSNDA)

• Overview: A newer but rapidly growing academy emphasizing discipline and modern learning.
• Courses Offered: CDS and NDA integrated courses.
• Teaching Methodology: Disciplined daily routine modeled after military academies.
• Faculty Details: Mix of defense veterans and young educators.
• Fee Structure: ₹40,000 to ₹60,000.
• Past Results: Good written exam qualification rates.
• Infrastructure: Digital learning aids and sports grounds.
• Availability: Offline (Residential).
• Pros: Modern facilities focus on SSB from day one.
• Cons: Relatively newer in the market.
• Best For: Long-term aspirants seeking an integrated approach.

Rank 10: The Unique Academy

• Overview: A pioneer in UPSC coaching across Maharashtra with a dedicated branch in Aurangabad.
• Courses Offered: CDS, IAS, and MPSC.
• Teaching Methodology: In-depth analysis of Current Affairs and General Studies.
• Faculty Details: Some of the best General Studies faculty in the state.
• Fee Structure: ₹25,000 to ₹40,000.
• Past Results: Extensive list of successful administrative officers.
• Infrastructure: Massive library and study rooms.
• Availability: Offline and Online.
• Pros: Unmatched General Studies preparation.
• Cons: Focus is more on written exams than physical/SSB training.
• Best For: Advanced learners needing a boost in GK and English.

Rank 11: Defence Simplified

• Overview: A boutique coaching center focusing on simplifying complex concepts for defense aspirants.
• Courses Offered: CDS and AFCAT.
• Teaching Methodology: Short-cut techniques for Mathematics and Logical Reasoning.
• Faculty Details: Young, dynamic mentors.
• Fee Structure: ₹20,000 to ₹35,000.
• Past Results: Consistent individual success stories.
• Infrastructure: Basic but efficient.
• Availability: Offline.
• Pros: Low fees personalized mentoring.
• Cons: Limited resources for SSB preparation.
• Best For: Students who struggle with the Mathematics section.

Comparison Table

Online vs Offline Coaching in Aurangabad

Verdict: For Union Public Service Commission (UPSC CDS) – Combined Defence Services, a Hybrid or Offline mode is highly recommended because the exam also involves an SSB interview where your personality and physical presence matter most.

Average Fees for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC CDS) – Combined Defence Services Coaching in Aurangabad

The cost of coaching varies significantly based on the facilities provided:

• Low Range (₹15,000 – ₹25,000): Focuses primarily on written exam coaching and basic physical drills. Usually non-residential.
• Medium Range (₹30,000 – ₹50,000): Comprehensive written exam preparation, updated study material, and regular mock tests.
• Premium Range (₹60,000 – ₹90,000+): Residential programs including hostel, mess, 5-star physical training infrastructure, and dedicated SSB mentors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is the best coaching institute in Aurangabad for UPSC CDS?

Major Kulthe Defence Education Institute (MKDEI) and Defence Career Academy (DCA) are widely considered the best for their comprehensive approach.

2. What is the average fee for CDS coaching in Aurangabad?

The average fee for a 6-month to 1-year program ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹55,000.

3. Is online coaching effective for CDS?

Yes, it is effective for the written exam portion, but for SSB and physical training, offline presence is highly beneficial.

4. How many months are required to prepare for CDS?

Ideally, 6–8 months of dedicated preparation is sufficient for a graduate to crack the exam.

5. Can beginners crack the UPSC CDS exam in their first attempt?

Absolutely. With a structured study plan and the right guidance from an institute like Plutus or MKDEI, many students clear it on their first try.

6. Do these institutes provide SSB interview training?

Most specialized defense academies like MKDEI and DCA include SSB training, while generalist coaching centers may only focus on the written test.

7. Is there a hostel facility available at these centers?

Yes, most top-ranked institutes in Aurangabad provide residential facilities for outstation students.

8. Is the CDS exam very difficult?

It is competitive but manageable. The Mathematics and English sections require practice, while General Knowledge requires consistent reading of newspapers.

Final Verdict

Choosing a coaching institute is the first step toward your uniform. If you are looking for comprehensive residential training, MKDEI is your top choice. For a balance of academics and affordability, DCA or DCI are excellent options. If you only want to master the written exam and GK, The Unique Academy or Plutus Academy will serve you best.

The “Soldier City” of Aurangabad has all the resources you need. Your job is to bring the determination and hard work.