The UPSC CDS‑I Examination 2026 online application process has started for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces through the Combined Defence Services examination. The exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for recruitment to the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officer Training Academy. Eligible candidates can apply online within the prescribed dates.
UPSC CDS‑I Examination 2026 : Overview
- Exam Name: UPSC CDS‑I Examination 2026
- Conducting Authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Total Vacancies: 451 Posts
- Examination Mode: Offline (Written Examination)
Important Dates
- Online Application Start Date: 10 December 2025
- Last Date to Apply Online: 30 December 2025
- Last Date for Fee Payment: 30 December 2025
- Written Examination Date: 12 April 2026
- Admit Card Release: Before Examination
Candidates are advised to confirm all dates from the official UPSC website.
Application Fee
- General / OBC / EWS Candidates: ₹200/-
- SC / ST Candidates: ₹0/-
- All Female Candidates: ₹0/-
Payment Mode
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Internet Banking
- IMPS
- Mobile Wallet / Cash Card
Age Limit (As per UPSC Rules)
- Eligible Date of Birth: Between 02 January 2003 to 01 January 2008
- Age Relaxation: As per UPSC CDS‑I Examination 2026 rules
UPSC CDS‑I Vacancy Details 2026
| Academy / Post | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad | 32 |
| Officer Training Academy (OTA) | 275 |
| Officer Training Academy (OTA – Women) | 18 |
| Total Posts | 451 |
Eligibility Criteria
Indian Military Academy (IMA)
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Indian Naval Academy (INA)
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university.
Air Force Academy (AFA)
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university.
Officer Training Academy (OTA – Men & Women)
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Applicants must also meet the prescribed age limits for the respective academies.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS‑I Online Form 2026
Interested candidates can apply online through the official UPSC website before 30 December 2025. Candidates must complete One Time Registration, fill in personal and educational details carefully, upload required documents, pay the application fee if applicable, and submit the application form. Applicants should keep a printout of the final submitted application for future reference and read the official notification carefully before applying.
UPSC CDS‑I Recruitment 2026 : Mode of Selection
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Physical Fitness Test
Important Links
- Apply Online: Click Here
- Official Notification PDF: Click Here
- UPSC Official Website: upsc.gov.in