UPSC Releases CDS 1 2026 Notification, Exam Scheduled for April 12
The UPSC has released the CDS 1 2026 notification on December 10, 2026, with the examination set for April 12, 2026. As the CDS 1 2026 exam approaches, aspiring defense officers across India are filled with anticipation. The Combined Defence Services examination, a gateway to premier military academies and a career in the armed forces, is a highly sought-after opportunity.
Recognizing the importance of this opportunity and its potential impact on future careers, we aim to provide comprehensive guidance throughout the process.
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This guide will cover the critical elements of CDS 1 2026, including the exam date and schedule, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Furthermore, we will share effective preparation strategies to help candidates excel. Our aim is to provide you with the knowledge and confidence needed to tackle this challenge and take a significant step towards your dream of serving the nation.
Notification Overview
The CDS 1 2026 exam is part of a series of examinations conducted by UPSC throughout the year. This national-level examination selects promising candidates for renowned defense academies such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA).
Key Dates for CDS 1 2026
| CDS 1 2026 EVENTS | DATES |
| CDS 1 2026 Application Start Date | 10 December 2026 |
| CDS 1 2026 Application Last Date | 30 December 2026 |
| CDS 1 2026 Exam Date | 12 April 2026 (SUNDAY) |
| CDS 1 2026 Admit Card Download Date | 3 weeks before the exam |
| CDS 1 2026 Result Date (Expected) | June – July 2026 |
Vacancy Details
The CDS 1 2026 notification announces a total of 451 vacancies distributed among various defense academies. The distribution of vacancies is as follows:
| Academy | Vacancies | Course Details | Commencement Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy, Dehradun | 100 | 162nd (DE) Course | January 2027 |
| Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala | 26 | Executive Branch | January 2027 |
| Air Force Academy, Hyderabad | 32 | Pre-Flying Training Course | January 2027 |
| Officers' Training Academy, Chennai (Madras) SSC Men | 275 | 125th SSC (Men) (NT) (UPSC) Course | April 2027 |
| Officers Training Academy, Chennai SSC Women | 18 | 125th SSC Women (NT) (UPSC) | April 2027 |
Eligibility Criteria for CDS 1 2026
Understanding the eligibility criteria for CDS 1 2026 is essential for those preparing for the Combined Defence Services examination. These criteria ensure that candidates are suitable for a career in the armed forces. Here is a breakdown of the key eligibility requirements.
Nationality
- Candidates must be citizens of India, or
- Candidates must be subjects of Nepal, or
- Candidates must be persons of Indian origin who have migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, and Ethiopia or Vietnam with the intention of permanent settlement.
For candidates in categories (ii) and (iii), a certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India is required.
However, Gorkha subjects of Nepal do not require a certificate of eligibility.
Age Limit
The age limit for CDS 1 2026 varies based on the academy to which candidates are applying.
| Academy | Eligibility | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | Unmarried male candidates | Not Born Earlier Than 2nd January 2003 and Not Later Than 1st January 2008 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | Unmarried male candidates | Not Born Earlier Than 2nd January 2003 and Not Later Than 1st January 2008 |
| Air Force Academy | Unmarried male candidates | Not Born Earlier Than 2nd January 2003 and Not Later Than 1st January 2007 (Not Born Earlier Than 2nd January 2001 and Not Later Than 1st January 2007 if holding a Commercial Pilot Licence) |
| Officers' Training Academy (SSC Men) | Unmarried male candidates | Not Born Earlier Than 2nd January 2002 and Not Later Than 1st January 2008 |
| Officers' Training Academy (SSC Women Non-Technical) | Unmarried women, issueless widows, issueless divorcees | Not Born Earlier Than 2nd January 2002 and Not Later Than 1st January 2008 |
The date of birth accepted by the Commission must be from the Matriculation or Secondary School Leaving Certificate or equivalent, certified by the appropriate university authority.
Educational Qualifications
Applicants for CDS 1 2026 must hold a degree from a recognized university or possess an equivalent qualification. Educational requirements differ depending on the defense academy:
| Academy | Educational Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy, Dehradun | Degree of a recognized university or equivalent | Final year students can apply if no backlogs |
| Officers' Training Academy, Chennai | Degree of a recognized university or equivalent | Final year students can apply if no backlogs |
| Indian Naval Academy | Degree in Engineering from a recognized university/institution | Final year students can apply if no backlogs |
| Air Force Academy | Degree of a recognized university (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering | Final year students can apply if no backlogs |
Final-year students who have not yet passed their exams may apply, provided they submit proof of passing at the course commencement. Documents should be sent to the appropriate address based on their first preference:
For IMA or SSC first-choice candidates, documents go to:
Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army),
Recruiting 'A', CDSE Entry,
West Block III, R. K. Puram,
New Delhi – 110066.
For Indian Navy first-choice candidates, documents go to:
Naval Headquarters “DMPR” (OI & R Section),
Room No. 204, ‘C’ Wing, Sena Bhawan,
New Delhi – 110011.
For Air Force first-choice candidates, documents go to:
Directorate of Personnel (Officers),
Kasturba Gandhi Marg,
New Delhi – 110001.
Phone: 23010231, Extn. 7645/7646/7610
Proof of passing must be submitted by these deadlines:
- For IMA: On or before 1st January 2027
- For Indian Naval Academy: On or before 1st January 2027
- For Air Force Academy: On or before 13th November 2026
- For Officers' Training Academy, Chennai: On or before 1st April 2027
Failure to provide the required proof by the deadline will result in cancellation of the candidature.
Physical Standards
Physical standards are crucial for defense careers. Male candidates need a minimum height of 157.5 cm, with variations for different branches (157 cm for Navy and 162.5 cm for Air Force). Female candidates must be at least 152 cm tall. These standards are essential to manage the physical demands of military training and service.
Height relaxations exist for candidates from specific regions, such as North-Eastern areas, Garhwal, and Kumaon, with a 5 cm relaxation in minimum height requirements.
Fee
Applicants (except SC/ST candidates/female candidates/Wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs specified in the notification) must pay a fee of Rs. 200. Payments not confirmed by the bank will result in application rejection.
A list of such applicants will be available on the Commission's website within two weeks after the submission deadline.
Applicants should submit proof of payment within 10 days from notification, either by hand or by speed post, to the Commission. Genuine fee payments will be considered, and applications will be revived if eligible.
Application Process
The CDS application process is conducted online through the UPSC official website https://upsconline.nic.in. Candidates must complete their applications within the specified time to avoid disqualification.
Steps to Apply:
Check new changes before applying as outlined above.
- Registration: Visit https://upsconline.nic.in and complete four parts – Account Creation, Universal Registration, Common Application Form, and Exam-Specific Form.
- Fill Application Form: Provide personal, educational, and force preference details.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photo, signature, and ID proof.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay online using debit/credit cards or net banking.
- Submit Form: Review details and submit the form.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The CDS 1 2026 examination comprises three papers: English, General Knowledge (GK), and Elementary Mathematics. Each paper lasts 2 hours, with the following timings:
| Academy | Subject | Code | Duration | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IMA | English | 11 | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 12 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| Elementary Mathematics | 13 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| INA | English | 11 | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 12 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| Elementary Mathematics | 13 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| AFA | English | 11 | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 12 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| Elementary Mathematics | 13 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| OTA | English | 11 | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 12 | 2 Hours | 100 |
Admit Card
The UPSC will release the CDS 1 2026 admit card on their official website. Candidates can download it using their registration or roll number. The admit card includes important details like exam date, time, venue, and instructions. It is mandatory to bring the admit card and a valid photo ID to the exam center.
Result
UPSC will announce the CDS 1 2026 result on their official website. Candidates can view their results by entering their roll number or name. The result will indicate the qualifying status, while marks will be released post-final result declaration.
Candidate Helpline for Assistance
UPSC has established a dedicated helpline to assist candidates during the application process.
- Helpline Number: 011-24041001
- Working Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Working Days: Monday to Friday (except holidays)
Candidates can contact this helpline for assistance with:
- Filling the application form
- Fee payment issues
- Uploading documents
- Any other application-related queries
Selection Process
The CDS 1 2026 selection process includes two phases: the written examination and the SSB interview.
- Written Examination: Candidates who qualify are shortlisted for the SSB interview.
- SSB Interview: Conducted in multiple stages, including psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. Candidates are evaluated on leadership, communication, and physical fitness.
- Medical Examination: Ensures compliance with the physical and mental fitness standards for officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
- Final Selection: Based on combined written exam and SSB interview performance, UPSC prepares the final selection list.
Conclusion
The CDS 1 2026 notification offers a remarkable chance for young aspirants to join the prestigious National Defence Academy and proudly serve the nation. It is essential to carefully read and understand the official notification, meet the eligibility criteria, and prepare thoroughly for the exam. With determination and effort, you can successfully embark on a defense forces career. Good luck!
