by UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 451 Posts
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the Combined Defence Services (CDS) I Recruitment 2026 notification for 451 vacancies across the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). Eligible unmarried male and female candidates can apply online through the official UPSC website.
📌 UPSC CDS I 2026 – Overview
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services (CDS) I Examination 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Total Vacancies | 451 Posts |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen & Paper) |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in |
📊 Vacancy Details
| Academy | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) – Men | 275 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) – Women | 18 |
🎓 Educational Qualification
| IMA & OTA | Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university |
| INA | Degree in Engineering |
| AFA | Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level or Engineering degree |
🎯 Age Limit
| Minimum Age | 20 Years |
| Maximum Age | 24 Years (varies by academy) |
💰 Application Fees
| General/OBC | ₹200 |
| SC/ST/Female | No Fee |
🧭 Selection Process
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
📝 Exam Pattern (Written Exam)
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
- For Admission to Officers’ Training Academy : English + GK
🖊️ How to Apply Online for UPSC CDS I 2026
- Visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in
- Click on CDS I Examination 2026 notification
- Complete One-Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill the online application form
- Upload required documents and pay the fee
- Submit and download application form
📅 Important Dates
| Notification Release | 10 December 2025 |
| Online Application Start | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
| CDS I Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
🔗 Important Links
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Notification PDF | Download |
| UPSC Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
❓ FAQs
Q1: How many vacancies are released under UPSC CDS I 2026?
A1: A total of 451 vacancies have been announced for CDS I 2026 across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.
Q2: What is the age limit for CDS I 2026?
A2: The age limit varies by academy. Generally, candidates must be born between 02 January 2003 and 01 January 2008 (as per official notification).
Q3: What is the educational qualification required for CDS?
A3: Graduation is required for IMA/OTA, Engineering degree for INA, and Graduation with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 for AFA.
Q4: What is the application fee for UPSC CDS I 2026?
A4: The application fee is ₹200 for General/OBC candidates, while SC/ST and Female candidates are exempted.
Q5: How can I apply for UPSC CDS I 2026?
A5: Candidates can apply online through the official UPSC website upsc.gov.in by completing One Time Registration (OTR) and submitting the application form.
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