The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026 notification (Advt. No. 04/2026) for 451 vacancies across premier defence academies: Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), Officers Training Academy (OTA – Men & Women). The last date to apply is 30 December 2025, and applications will not be accepted after the deadline.
Check The Official Notification
UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026 — Overview
| Particular | Details |
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services (CDS-I) 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission |
| Vacancies | 451 |
| Apply Start | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Mode | Online |
| Website | upsc.gov.in / upsconline.nic.in |
Candidates must complete the form and fee payment before the deadline.
Apply Online — Direct Link
Eligible candidates can submit their application online until 30 December 2025. Complete OTR, upload documents, pay the fee, and submit before the deadline.
Apply early to avoid last-minute website issues.
UPSC CDS-I Vacancy 2026
| Academy | Posts |
| 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 |
| Total | 451 |
Age Limit (As per UPSC Rules)
- Born between 02 January 2003 and 01 January 2008 (academy-wise rules apply)
- Specific marital status requirements apply to each academy
UPSC CDS-I 2026 Eligibility Criteria
| Academy | Required Qualification |
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | Bachelor’s degree in Engineering |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | Bachelor’s in Engineering OR Graduation with Physics & Mathematics in 12th |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | Bachelor’s degree (any stream) |
Selection Process
The recruitment will be conducted in the following stages:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit Preparation
UPSC CDS-I 2026 Exam Date
12 April 2026
The admit card will be released before the exam.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹200 |
| SC / ST / Female | Exempted |
Payment can be made using a debit card, a credit card, UPI, or net banking.
How to Fill UPSC CDS-I Online Form 2026
Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit upsconline.nic.in
- Complete One-Time Registration (OTR)
- Select CDS-I 2026
- Fill personal & academic details
- Upload photo, signature & ID proof
- Pay the fee (if applicable)
- Submit and print the acknowledgment
Double-check details — corrections are not allowed after submission.
Important Instructions
- Use details exactly as per your Class 10 certificate
- Keep email/mobile active for updates
- Apply early to avoid server load
- Save the final printout for reference
Why CDS is a Prestigious Opportunity?
CDS offers entry into elite defence academies leading to:
- Officer-rank career
- Leadership training
- Job security
- Respect & national service
| Other Related Links |
| AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment 2025 |
| SSC Junior Engineer Exam City Details 2025 Out |
| UP Police Computer Operator Grade-A Recruitment 2025 |
UPSC CDS-I Online Form 2026 (FAQs)-
When did UPSC CDS-I 2026 applications start?
The UPSC CDS-I 2026 online application process started on 10 December 2025.
What is the last date for the CDS-I Online Form 2026?
The last date to submit the UPSC CDS-I 2026 Online Form is 30 December 2025. Candidates must complete the form and pay the fees before this deadline.
What is the exam date?
The UPSC CDS-I 2026 written examination is scheduled to be held on 12 April 2026.
What is the educational requirement?
- For Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) — Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- For the Indian Naval Academy (INA) — Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.
- For Air Force Academy (AFA) — Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or graduation with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.
