UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 Apply Online 451 Posts
UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 Apply Online 451 Posts
Introduction
Overview
| Recruitment Authority | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 |
| Salary | Rs. 56,100 – Rs. 1,77,500 (Level 10) |
| Qualification | Graduation (as per course requirement) |
| Age Limit | 19 to 24 years (course-wise variations) |
| Application Start Date | 10 December 2025 |
| Application Last Date | 30 December 2025 |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
UPSC CDS 1 Notification 2026
Vacancy Details
| Course Name | Total Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy, Dehradun (162nd DE Course) | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala – Executive Branch/Hydro | 26 |
| Air Force Academy, Hyderabad – Pre-Flying Training 221 F(P) | 32 |
| Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai – 125th SSC (Men) (NT) | 275 |
| Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai – 125th SSC Women (NT) | 18 |
| Total | 451 |
Eligibility Criteria
- IMA/OTA: Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized University.
- INA: Engineering Degree from a recognized University/Institution.
- AFA: Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level OR Engineering Degree.
- Final-year students can apply but must submit proof before SSB.
- Only unmarried candidates are eligible except certain categories for OTA Woman entry.
Age Limit (As on 01-01-2027)
- IMA/INA: Born between 02-01-2003 and 01-01-2008
- AFA: 20 to 24 years; upper limit relaxable to 26 years for CPL holders
- OTA (Men/Women): Born between 02-01-2002 and 01-01-2008
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC (Male) | Rs. 200/- |
| Female/SC/ST | No Fee |
Salary Structure
- During Training: Rs. 56,100/- per month
- Lieutenant (after commissioning): Rs. 56,100 – 1,77,500 (Level 10)
- Allowances: DA, MSP (Rs. 15,500), Dress Allowance, Transport, CEA, Ration etc.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 10/12/2025 |
| Application Start | 10/12/2025 |
| Application Last Date | 30/12/2025 (6 PM) |
| Written Exam | 12/04/2026 |
| Result | May 2026 (Tentative) |
| Course Commencement (IMA/INA/AFA) | January 2027 |
| Course Commencement (OTA) | April 2027 |
Selection Process
- Written Examination (Objective Type)
- SSB Interview (Two Stage)
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List (based on Written + SSB marks)
Exam Pattern
For IMA/INA/AFA
- English – 100 Marks
- General Knowledge – 100 Marks
- Elementary Mathematics – 100 Marks
For OTA
- English – 100 Marks
- General Knowledge – 100 Marks
Negative Marking: 1/3rd per wrong answer.
How to Apply
- Visit the official website: upsconline.nic.in
- Create an account and generate URN.
- Fill the Common Application Form with accurate details.
- Upload photograph, documents, and live photo.
- Select exam centre and preferred academies.
- Pay fee (if applicable).
- Submit and download the final form.
Important Links
Preparation Tips
- Understand CDS syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly.
- Strengthen basics in English, GK, and Mathematics.
- Regularly read newspapers for current affairs.
- Practice previous year questions for speed and accuracy.
- Focus on NCERTs for History, Polity, Geography, Science.
- Improve vocabulary through daily reading habits.
- Practice Maths with timed mock tests.
- Follow defence-related news and international relations updates.
- Prepare for SSB by developing communication and leadership skills.
- Maintain physical fitness for SSB requirements.
Recommended Books
- English: Objective General English – S.P. Bakshi
- General Knowledge: Lucent’s General Knowledge
- Current Affairs: Newspaper + Monthly Magazines (Pratiyogita Darpan)
- Mathematics: Pathfinder CDS Mathematics – Arihant
- SSB Interview: SSB Interview Guide – N. K. Natarajan
- History: NCERT Class 6–12
- Polity: Laxmikanth’s Indian Polity
- Geography: GC Leong + NCERTs
- Science: NCERT Class 6–10 Science
- CDS Complete Preparation: Pathfinder CDS by Arihant Publications
FAQs –UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Q1: What is the total number of vacancies in CDS 1 2026?
A: The total number of vacancies is 451.
Q2: What is the educational qualification for IMA?
A: A Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized University.
Q3: Is there any application fee for female candidates?
A: No, female candidates are exempted from paying the application fee.
Q4: What is the exam date for CDS 1 2026?
A: The exam will be held on 12 April 2026.
Q5: Can final-year students apply for CDS?
A: Yes, provided they submit proof of passing before SSB.
Q6: Is there negative marking in the CDS exam?
A: Yes, 1/3rd mark is deducted for each wrong answer.
Q7: What is the training stipend?
A: Rs. 56,100/- per month.
Q8: Are women eligible for OTA?
A: Yes, women can apply for OTA (SSC Women Non-Technical).
Q9: How many papers are there for OTA entry?
A: Two papers – English and General Knowledge.
Q10: What is the selection process?
A: Written Exam → SSB Interview → Medical → Final Merit.
