UPSC CDS (I) Examination 2026: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Has Released A Notification for the Post of Combined Defence Services-I Examination 2026. Interested and Eligible Candidates Can Apply Online From 10/12/2025 To 30/12/2025. Before Apply Online Read The Notification Carefully.
UPSC CDS (I) Notification 2026
| Name of Recruitment Board / Agency | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Name of Post | CDS (I) |
| Total Post | 451 |
| Job Bases | Permanent |
| Job Location | All India |
| Advertisement No. | 4/2026 CDS- I |
Important Dates for UPSC CDS (I) Online Form 2026
| Event | Date |
| Opening Date of Online Application | 10/12/2025 |
| Closing Date of Online Application | 30/12/2025 |
| Last Date of Fee Payment | 30/12/2025 |
| Exam Date | 12/04/2026 |
| Category | Application Fee |
| UR / OBC / EWS | ₹ 200 |
| SC / ST / PH / Female / Sons of JCOs / ORs | Exempted |
| Fee Payment mode | Online Mode |
Age Limit (Born Between)
| For Indian Military Academy | 02/01/2003 To 01/01/2008 |
| For Indian Naval Academy | 02/01/2003 To 01/01/2008 |
| For Air Force Academy | 02/01/2003 To 01/01/2007 |
| For Officers Training Academy | 02/01/2002 To 01/01/2008 |
Vacancy Details & Eligibility Criteria
| Post Name | Total Post | Educational Qualification & Other Eligibility |
| Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun | 100 | Bachelor Degree. |
| Officers Training Academy (Men), Chennai | 275 | Bachelor Degree. |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala | 26 | B.E. / B.Tech. Degree. |
| Officers Training Academy (Women), Chennai | 18 | Bachelor Degree. |
| Air Force Academy, Hyderabad | 32 | 12th Passed in Physics, Maths with Degree in Any Stream OR B.E. / B.Tech Degree. |
| TOTAL POST | 451 |
Selection Process
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
| Download Admit Card | Click Here |
| Apply online | Click Here |
| Detailed Notification | Click Here |
| Official Website | UPSC Official Website |
How to Apply for UPSC CDS (I) Recruitment 2026?
- Step-1: Go to the official website of UPSC (https://upsc.gov.in/).
- Step-2: If You are first time user make Registration or already Registered then Login with the Credentials (Registration Number and Password).
- Step-3: Keep All Documents (ie 10th Certificate, 12th Certificate, Graduation Certificate, Cast Certificate, Domicile) Scanned.
- Step-4: Upload Required Documents, Recent Photograph and Signature in the Required Size and Format.
- Step-5: Fill all the Details in Application form like Name, father’s Name, D.O.B, Address etc.
- Step-6: Preview the application form before final submit (No changes will be made once it’s Submitted).
- Step-7: After submitting the application form take a print out of it for future references.
FAQs – UPSC CDS (I) Examination 2026
1. When will the UPSC CDS (I) 2026 online application process start?
The online application process has been started for UPSC CDS (I) 2026. You can apply from 10/12/2025 to 30/12/2025.
2. How many vacancies are expected in UPSC CDS (I) 2026?
As per the information provided in the official notification, there are 451 posts under UPSC CDS (I) 2026.
3. What is the eligibility criteria for UPSC CDS (I) 2026?
Generally, candidates must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university (specific requirements vary for IMA, OTA, INA & AFA).
- Fall within the prescribed age limits for the respective academies.
- Meet physical & medical standards set by UPSC.
Exact criteria will be confirmed in the official notification.
4. What is the application fee for UPSC CDS (I) 2026?
UPSC usually charges a small application fee for male candidates, while female candidates and reserved category candidates are often exempted. The exact fee details will be provided in the official notice.
5. How can I apply for UPSC CDS (I) 2026 online?
Candidates can apply online through the UPSC Official Website by completing the following steps:
- Registration via One Time Registration (OTR).
- Completing the CDS (I) application form.
- Uploading required documents.
- Paying the application fee (if applicable).
- Submitting and printing the confirmation page.
6. What is the selection process for CDS (I) 2026?
The CDS selection process generally includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview (Intelligence & Personality Test)
- Medical Examination
7. Can female candidates apply for UPSC CDS (I) 2026?
Yes, female candidates can apply, mainly for OTA (Officers’ Training Academy), Chennai, as per previous patterns. Final rules will be mentioned in the notification.
8. What documents are required during the online application?
Typically required documents include:
- Passport-size photo
- Signature
- Valid ID proof
- Educational certificates (as per requirement)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
9. Where can I find the official notification for CDS (I) 2026?
The official notification has been published on the UPSC website under the “Examinations” or “What’s New” section or you can visit the links given above.
Official Source: View Notification