Comprehensive Guide to Combined Defence Services Exam (I) 2026: Vacancy, Age Limit, Qualification, and Application Process
UPSC CDS I Examination 2026
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the employment notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026. This is one of the most prestigious examinations in India for graduates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces as Commissioned Officers.
For the 2026 cycle, UPSC has announced a total of 451 vacancies across the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).
The online application window opened on 10th December 2025 and will close on 30th December 2025. Interested candidates are advised to apply early to avoid last-minute rush. The written examination is scheduled for 12th April 2026.
UPSC CDS I 2026: Exam Overview
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Exam (I), 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 Posts |
| Job Location | All India |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Start Date | 10th December 2025 |
| Last Date | 30th December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 12th April 2026 |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
Vacancy Breakup by Institute
The 451 vacancies are distributed among the various training academies. Candidates must indicate their preference while applying.
- Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun: 100 Posts
- Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala: 26 Posts
- Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad: 32 Posts
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Men): 275 Posts (125th SSC Men NT Course)
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Women): 18 Posts (125th SSC Women NT Course)
Total Posts: 451
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS I 2026
To appear for the examination, candidates must strictly satisfy the following eligibility conditions regarding nationality, age, and education.
1. Nationality
The candidate must be unmarried and must be:
- A Citizen of India, OR
- A subject of Nepal, OR
- A person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries (Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries, Vietnam) with the intention of permanently settling in India.
2. Educational Qualification
| Academy | Required Qualification |
| IMA & OTA | Degree of a recognized University or equivalent. |
| Indian Naval Academy | Degree in Engineering from a recognized University/Institution. |
| Air Force Academy | Degree of a recognized University (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) OR Bachelor of Engineering. |
Note: Candidates appearing in the final year of their degree can also apply.
3. Age Limit and Marital Status
Candidates must fall within the specific date ranges mentioned below to be eligible.
- IMA (Unmarried Male): Born not earlier than 2nd January 2003 and not later than 1st January 2008.
- INA (Unmarried Male): Born not earlier than 2nd January 2003 and not later than 1st January 2008.
- Air Force Academy:
- Age: 20 to 24 years as on 1st January 2027.
- Born not earlier than 2nd January 2003 and not later than 1st January 2007.
- Relaxation: Valid Commercial Pilot Licence (DGCA) holders can apply up to 26 years (Born not earlier than 2nd Jan 2001).
- OTA (SSC Course for Men): Unmarried male candidates born not earlier than 2nd January 2002 and not later than 1st January 2008.
- OTA (SSC Women Non-Technical): Unmarried women, issueless widows, and issueless divorcees born not earlier than 2nd January 2002 and not later than 1st January 2008.
Application Fee
- General / OBC / EWS: Rs. 200/-
- Female / SC / ST Candidates: NIL (Exempted)
- Payment Mode: Online via Visa/Master/Rupay Credit/Debit Card/UPI or Internet Banking.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026?
Eligible candidates can apply online through the official UPSC portal. Follow these steps for a smooth application process:
- Visit the Portal: Go to upsconline.nic.in or check the “Important Web-Links” section below.
- OTR Registration: Complete the One Time Registration (OTR) if applying for the first time. If already registered, log in.
- Fill Application: Select “Combined Defence Services Examination (I) 2026”. Fill in your personal details, educational qualifications, and academy preferences.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and photo identity card (Aadhaar/Voter ID/Passport, etc.).
- Pay Fee: Pay the application fee of Rs. 200 (if applicable).
- Choose Centre: Select your preferred examination centre.
- Submit & Print: Submit the form and take a printout of the final application for future reference.
Important Dates
- Starting Date of Online Application: 10th December 2025
- Last Date of Online Application: 30th December 2025
- Date of Written Exam: 12th April 2026
- Admit Card Release: 3 Weeks before the exam (Expected in March 2026)
Important Web-Links of UPSC CDS Examination
| Online Application Form | Click Here |
| Advertisement Details | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Follow Our Whatsapp Channel | Click Here |
| Follow our Telegram Channel | Click Here |
| Follow us on Twitter (X) | Click Here |
| Join Us on Linkedin | Click Here |
| More Job News | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When is the exam date for UPSC CDS 1 2026?
The written exam will be conducted on 12th April 2026.
Q2. Can final year students apply for CDS 2026?
Yes, candidates in the final year of their degree course are eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of passing at the time of SSB interview/admission.
Q3. Is there any age relaxation for OTA?
The age limit for OTA is slightly higher (up to roughly 25 years at the time of course commencement) compared to IMA/INA. Candidates must be born between 2nd Jan 2002 and 1st Jan 2008.
Q4. Can women apply for IMA or INA?
No, currently women candidates are eligible only for the Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) Short Service Commission.
