UPSC CDS I Examination 2026 for 451 Posts | Exam Schedule & Syllabus
Post Update: 07-01-2026
Short Description: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I), 2026. This recruitment drive aims to fill positions in the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA). Interested graduate candidates can apply online from 10th December 2025. This is a golden opportunity for those aspiring to become commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I), 2026
| Important Dates |
Application Fee |
- Application Begin: 10/12/2025
- Last Date for Apply Online: 30/12/2025
- Pay Exam Fee Last Date: 30/12/2025
- Exam Date: 12/04/2026
|
- General / OBC / EWS: ₹200/-
- SC / ST: ₹0/-
- All Category Female: ₹0/-
- Payment Mode: Debit Card / Credit Card / Net Banking / UPI.
|
Age Limit (as on 01/01/2027)
- For IMA & INA: 19-24 Years
- For Air Force Academy: 20-24 Years
- For OTA: 19-25 Years
- Age relaxation will be provided as per UPSC rules.
UPSC CDS I Vacancy Details 2026: Total 451 Posts
| Post Name |
Total Posts |
Eligibility Criteria |
| IMA (Indian Military Academy) |
100 |
Bachelor's Degree in any stream from a recognized university. |
| INA (Indian Naval Academy) |
26 |
Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from a recognized university. |
| AFA (Air Force Academy) |
32 |
Bachelor's Degree in any stream with Physics & Math at 10+2 level OR an Engineering Degree. |
| OTA (Officers’ Training Academy) |
293 |
Bachelor's Degree in any stream from a recognized university. |
How to Fill the UPSC CDS I Online Form 2026
- Candidates can apply online between 10/12/2025 to 30/12/2025.
- It is advised to read the full official notification before applying.
- Ensure you have all necessary documents ready: ID proof, address details, scanned photo, sign, etc.
- Before submitting the application, carefully review all the columns and details filled.
- If an application fee is required, it must be paid for the form to be considered complete.
- After final submission, take a printout for your records.
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