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The CDS 2026 Exam notification has been officially released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for a total of 451 vacancies across various academies. The online application process begins on 10 December 2025 and will remain active until 30 December 2025. Interested and eligible graduates can submit their application forms through the official UPSC portal at upsc.gov.in.
UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 – Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree (varies by academy) |
| Salary Range | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Start Date | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Official Site | upsc.gov.in |
UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details
| Course Name | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| IMA, Dehradun | 100 |
| INA, Ezhimala | 26 |
| AFA, Hyderabad | 32 |
| OTA, Chennai (Men) | 275 |
| OTA, Chennai (Women) | 18 |
| Total | 451 |
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Educational Qualification
- IMA & OTA: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- INA: Engineering degree from a recognized institution
- AFA: Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level OR B.E/B.Tech
Final-year candidates may also apply if they can submit proof of qualification during SSB.
Age Limit for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 (as on 01.01.2027)
- IMA/INA: Unmarried males born between 02/01/2003 – 01/01/2008
- AFA: 20–24 years (Upper age limit 26 for CPL holders)
- OTA (Men): Unmarried males born between 02/01/2002 – 01/01/2008
- OTA (Women): Unmarried women/widows/divorcees within same date range
Salary Structure Under UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Stipend During Training
- Fixed stipend: ₹56,100 per month
Post-Commission Salary
| Rank | Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Lieutenant | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 |
| Captain | ₹61,300 – ₹1,93,900 |
| Major | ₹69,400 – ₹2,07,200 |
| Lt. Colonel | ₹1,21,200 – ₹2,12,400 |
| Colonel | ₹1,30,600 – ₹2,15,900 |
Additionally, officers receive Military Service Pay (MSP), Dearness Allowance, Uniform Allowance, Children Education Allowance, Free Ration, and Medical Benefits.
Application Fee for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC (Male) | ₹200 |
| Female Candidates | No Fee |
| SC/ST Candidates | No Fee |
Selection Process for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
1. Written Examination
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: 0.33 marks per incorrect answer.
2. SSB Interview
Two stages:
- Stage I – OIR Test + PP&DT
- Stage II – Interview, GTO Tasks, Psychology Tests
3. Medical Examination
Conducted by Armed Forces Medical Services.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Visit upsconline.nic.in
Register and generate URN
Fill the Common Application Form
Upload required documents and live photo
Select preferred academies
Pay the application fee
Submit the form
Download confirmation copy
UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 – Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Notification PDF | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Join Telegram Channel | Click Here |
| Join WhatsApp Channel | Click Here |
⭐ Conclusion for Aspirants – UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
The CDS 2026 Exam offers a remarkable opportunity for young aspirants who dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers. With vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA, this exam opens the gateway to a prestigious, disciplined, and honourable career serving the nation. Candidates preparing for CDS should focus on consistent practice, strong conceptual understanding, and physical fitness to meet both written and SSB requirements.
Aspirants are advised to begin their preparation early, follow a structured study plan, and solve previous year papers to improve speed and accuracy. Remember, the CDS examination not only evaluates your academic knowledge but also your determination, leadership qualities, mental strength, and officer-like attributes. With the right strategy, dedication, and confidence, clearing the CDS exam is absolutely achievable.
If serving the nation is your dream, then this is your moment—apply for UPSE CDS Exam, start your preparations with full commitment, and move one step closer to wearing the prestigious uniform of the Indian Armed Forces. Stay focused, stay disciplined, and success will be yours.
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