Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the notification for Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I) 2026 to fill 451 vacancies across prestigious Indian defence academies including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). The courses will commence in January and April 2027. Both male and female candidates, depending on the course, are eligible to apply. The CDS 1 2026 online application process is open from 10th December to 30th December 2025.
Name of Organization
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Post Name
Combined Defence Services (CDS) I Exam 2026
Total Vacancies
451
Salary
₹56,100/- per month (during training)
Age Limit
Born between 2 Jan 2002 and 1 Jan 2008 (varies by course)
Application Fee
₹200 (No fee for SC/ST/Female)
Selection Process
Written Exam → SSB Interview → Medical Examination
Apply Mode
Online
Job Location
All India (Defence Academies)
Last Date To Apply
30 December 2025
Vacancy Details
Post Name
Vacancy
Education
Indian Military Academy (IMA)
100
Degree from a recognized university
Indian Naval Academy (INA)
26
Engineering Degree
Air Force Academy (AFA)
32
Degree with Physics & Math at 10+2 or B.E./B.Tech
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – SSC Men
275
Degree from a recognized university
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – SSC Women
18
Degree from a recognized university
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for UPSC CDS 1 2026:
Visit the official UPSC Online portal from 10th December 2025.
Register using a valid email ID and phone number.
Fill out the application form with personal, academic, and communication details.
Upload all required scanned documents.
Pay the application fee online (₹200) if applicable.
Submit the application form before 6:00 PM on 30th December 2025.
Take a printout of the final submitted form for future reference.