The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC CDS) has announced online applications for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination I 2026, offering 451 vacancies. The CDS I Exam 2026 will be held on 12th April 2026. Eligible male and female candidates can apply online through the official UPSC portal, upsconline. Nic. Starting from 10th December 2025.
The last date to submit applications is 30th December 2025. This recruitment drive provides an opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying. Don’t miss this chance to kickstart a prestigious career in defence through UPSC CDS I 2026.
Important Dates – UPSC CDS 1 2026
- Application Start Date: 10 December 2025
- Application Last Date: 30 December 2025
- Exam Date: 12 April 2026
Read More: SBI SCO 2025 Recruitment: Online Application & Notification
Application Fee – UPSC CDS 1 2026
- SC/ST & Female Candidates: ₹0
- All Other Candidates: ₹200
- Payment Mode: Online via Credit/Debit Card, UPI, or Internet Banking
Age Limit – UPSC CDS 1 2026
- Check the course-wise age limits below.
- For age relaxation details, refer to the official UPSC notification.
Total Post
- 451
CDS Age Limit For Examination 2026
| For the Indian Naval Academy | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| For IMA | Unmarried male candidates born not earlier than 2nd January, 2003 and not later than 1st January, 2008 only are eligible |
| For Indian Naval Academy | 20 to 24 years as on 1st January, 2027, i.e., born not earlier than 2nd January 2003 and not later than 1st January 2007. The upper age limit for candidates holding a valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India) is relaxable by up to 26 years. i.e., born not earlier than 2nd January 2001 and not later than 1st January 2007 only are eligible. |
| For Air Force Academy | 20 to 24 years as on 1st January, 2027 i.e. born not earlier than 2nd January 2003 and not later than 1st January 2007. Upper age limit for candidates holding valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India) is relaxable upto 26 yrs. i.e. born not earlier than 2nd January 2001 and not later than 1st January 2007 only are eligible. |
| For Officers’ Training Academy – (SSC Course for men) | Unmarried male candidate born not earlier than 2nd January 2002 and not later than 1st January 2008 only are eligible. |
| For Officers’ Training Academy – (SSC Women Non-Technical Course) | Unmarried women, issueless widows who have not remarried and issueless divorcees (in possession of divorce documents) who have not remarried are eligible. They should have been born not earlier than 2 nd January 2002 and not later than 1st January 2008. |
CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 – EligibilIMAiteria
- I.M.A. & Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai: Degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
- Indian Naval Academy: Degree in Engineering from a recognized university/inst itucommen.
- Aing inorce Academyinstitin aty with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level, or a Bachelor of Engineering.
UPSC CDS 1 Vacancy 2026 Details
| 22Ccommencingin January 2027 Executive Branch (General Service)/Hydro [including 06 vacancies for NCC ‘C’ Certificate (Naval Wing) holders and 01 for Hydro] | No. of Posts |
|---|---|
| 1. Indian Military Academy, ‘e’radun – 162nd (DE) Course commencing in January 2027 [including 13 vacancies reserved for NCC ‘C’ Certificate (Army Wing) holders] | 100 |
| 1. Indian Military Academy, De’radun – 162nd (DE) Course commencing in January 2027 [including 13 vacancies reserved for NCC ‘C’ Certificate (Army Wing) holders] | 26 |
| 2. Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala – Course comme’cing in January 2027 Executive Branch (General Service)/Hydro [including 06 vacancies for NCC ‘C’ Certificate (Naval Wing) holders and 01 for Hydro] | 32 |
| 3. Air Force Academy, Hyderabad – (Pre-Flying) Training Co’rse commencing in January 2027 i.e. 221 F(P) Course. [including 03 vacancies reserved for NCC ‘C’ Certificate (Air Wing) holders through NCC Special Entry] | 275 |
| 5. Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (Madras) 125th SSC Women (NT) (UPSC) Course commencing in, April 2027. | 18 |
| Total Post | 451 |
CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 Apply Online Links
| Apply Online | Click Here To Apply |
| Applicant Login | Click Here To Login |
| Application *Home Page | Click Here To Open Home Page |
| Download Notification | Click Here To Download Notification |
| Official Website | Click Here To Open Official Website |
| Join Telegram Channel | Click Here To Join Telegram |
| Join WhatsApp Channel | Click Here To Join WhatsApp |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the last date to apply for CDS 1 2026?
The last date is 30th December 2025.
When will the CDS 1 Exam 2026 be conducted?
The exam is scheduled for 12th April 2026.
How many vacancies are available in CDS 1 2026?
There are 451 vacancies for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
What is the application fee for CDS 1 2026?
₹0 for SC/ST & female candidates; ₹200 for all others.
Who is eligible to apply for CDS 1 2026?
Candidates with required degrees in relevant fields; final-year students can also apply.
Where can I apply online for CDS 1 2026?
Applications are submitted at upsconline.nic.in.
What documents are required for the SSB interview?
Graduation/provisional certificates and other eligibility proofs must be submitted.
Conclusion
UPSC CDS 1 2026 offers a prestigious opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. With 451 vacancies across the Army, Navy, and Air Force, eligible candidates should apply online before 30th December 2025. Ensure all eligibility criteria and document requirements are met to avoid last-minute issues. Prepare thoroughly for the exam scheduled on 12th April 2026 and take the first step toward a distinguished career in defence services.
