The Union Public Service Commission has released the official CDS 1 Exam Notification 2026, inviting applications for 451 vacancies across the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy and Officers’ Training Academy. This examination remains one of India’s most respected entry routes for candidates aspiring to join the Armed Forces as commissioned officers. With openings for both men and women, the CDS 1 recruitment cycle always attracts thousands of motivated graduates.
I am covering this notification because the CDS exam continues to be a dream pathway for many young Indians. Every year, candidates search for clear and reliable information on eligibility, syllabus, exam dates and the application process. Since this exam can shape the future of aspirants aiming for a disciplined and honourable military career, it’s essential to break down all the important details in a simple, practical way. This guide will help candidates understand what the UPSC has announced for CDS 1 2026 and how they can apply without confusion.
About UPSC CDS 1 Examination 2026
The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) is conducted twice a year by UPSC. CDS 1 2026 aims to fill 451 vacancies in the following academies:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA, Chennai)
- Application Start Date: 10/12/2025
- Application Submit Last Date: 31/12/2025
- Notification: Click Here
- Online Apply: Click Here
- Official Website: Click Here
Candidates who clear the written exam and SSB interview undergo pre-commission training at the respective academies.
Vacancy Details
Although the detailed distribution is provided in the official notification, the 451 posts are roughly divided across:
- IMA Dehradun
- INA Ezhimala
- AFA Hyderabad
- OTA Chennai (Men & Women)
This offers a wide range of opportunities for both technical and non-technical graduate aspirants.
Eligibility Criteria
UPSC has set clear eligibility standards depending on the academy:
Educational Qualification
- IMA and OTA: Graduation in any discipline
- INA: Degree in engineering
- AFA: Degree with Physics and Mathematics in Class 12 or a Bachelor of Engineering
Age Limit
- IMA/INA/AFA: Usually between 19 to 24 years
- OTA: Between 19 to 25 years
Candidates must be unmarried and must meet specific physical fitness standards.
Selection Process
The recruitment includes multiple stages:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
The written exam tests candidates on General Knowledge, English and Elementary Mathematics (Maths is applicable only for IMA/INA/AFA).
Application Fee
Candidates generally have to pay a nominal application fee online. Women, SC and ST candidates are usually exempted.
How to Apply Online for CDS 1 2026
Follow these steps to complete the online application:
- Visit the official UPSC online application portal.
- Click on the link for CDS 1 Examination 2026.
- Complete Part I registration by entering personal details.
- Proceed to Part II registration to upload documents.
- Pay the application fee through online mode.
- Choose your preferred exam centre.
- Submit the form and download a copy of the confirmation page.


















