UPSC CDS-I Recruitment :: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS-I), 2026, inviting applications for 451 vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. Eligible candidates can apply online from 10 December 2025 to 30 December 2025 through the UPSC official website.
This article provides the complete details about eligibility, vacancy breakup, application fee, important dates, selection process, and steps to apply.
UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026: Overview
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 |
| Salary | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10) |
| Qualification | Any Degree (varies by course) |
| Age Limit | 19 to 24 years (varies by course) |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Start Date | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date | 30 December 2025 (till 6 PM) |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
UPSC CDS-I 2026 Vacancy Details
| Course Name | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy, Dehradun – 162nd Course | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala – Executive/Hydro | 26 |
| Air Force Academy, Hyderabad – 221 F(P) Course | 32 |
| Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai – SSC (Men) | 275 |
| Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai – SSC (Women) | 18 |
| Total | 451 |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualifications
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IMA & OTA: Degree from a recognized University.
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Indian Naval Academy: Degree in Engineering.
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Air Force Academy: Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level OR Bachelor of Engineering.
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Final-year students may also apply.
Nationality
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Citizen of India / Subject of Nepal / Certain PIO categories as per notification.
Age Limit (As on 01-01-2027)
| Course | Age Criteria |
|---|---|
| IMA & INA | Unmarried males born between 02/01/2003 – 01/01/2008 |
| AFA | 20 to 24 years (relaxable up to 26 for CPL holders) |
| OTA (Men) | Unmarried males born between 02/01/2002 – 01/01/2008 |
| OTA (Women) | Unmarried / issueless widows / divorcees born between 02/01/2002 – 01/01/2008 |
Salary & Stipend
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During Training: ₹56,100 per month (stipend)
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Lieutenant (after commissioning): ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10)
Additional pay & allowances:
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Military Service Pay: ₹15,500 per month
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Dress Allowance: ₹20,000 per year
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DA, Transport Allowance, Education Allowance, Free Ration, etc.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC (Male) | ₹200 |
| Women / SC / ST | No Fee |
Payment Mode: Debit/Credit Card, UPI, Net Banking.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 10 December 2025 |
| Application Start | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Written Result | May 2026 (Tentative) |
| Course Commencement (IMA/INA/AFA) | January 2027 |
| OTA Course | April 2027 |
Selection Process
1. Written Examination
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IMA/INA/AFA: English, General Knowledge, Mathematics (300 marks)
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OTA: English, General Knowledge (200 marks)
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Negative marking: 1/3rd per wrong answer.
2. SSB Interview
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Intelligence & Personality Test
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Stage I: OIR Test + PP&DT
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Stage II: Interview, GTO Tasks, Psychology Tests
3. Medical Examination
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Conducted at designated Armed Forces Medical Hospitals.
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UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026 : How to Apply
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Visit upsconline.nic.in
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Create account & generate URN
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Fill Common Application Form (CAF)
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Upload photograph & live capture
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Select preferred academy/course
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Upload required documents
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Pay fee (if applicable)
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Submit the application
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Download & print application copy
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Notification PDF | Click Here |
| Official UPSC Website | upsc.gov.in |
