UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026: UPSC has released the official notification for UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026 for 450+ vacancies across prestigious defence academies including IMA, INA, AFA and OTA. Candidates possessing a graduate degree or equivalent qualification can apply for these highly competitive posts.
This recruitment offers an excellent opportunity for aspirants aiming to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers. The online/offline application process starts from 10 December 2025 and the last date to submit the form is 30 December 2025. The article covers eligibility, age limit, vacancies, fees, exam pattern, selection process and application guidelines in detail. Candidates are advised to carefully read the official notification before applying.
The CDS I 2026 notification includes a total of 451 vacancies divided among IMA, INA, AFA and OTA. Candidates who clear the written exam are shortlisted for the SSB Interview, followed by a mandatory medical assessment. Final selection is based on merit combining written exam and SSB performance.
The UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026 is one of the most prestigious opportunities for young aspirants aiming to serve the nation as commissioned officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Through this exam, UPSC selects eligible candidates for training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). Candidates with a graduate degree or engineering qualification can apply, making this recruitment ideal for defence-minded individuals with leadership qualities.
UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Post Name | Combined Defence Services (CDS I) Officer Posts |
| Total Vacancies | 450+ |
| Salary / Pay Scale | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10 & above) |
| Educational Qualification | Graduation / Engineering Degree |
| Age Limit | 19–25 years (as per academy) |
| Application Start Date | 10 December 2025 |
| Application End Date | 30 December 2025 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) | |||||||||
| Important Dates | Application Fees | ||||||||
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| Also Check: Indian Air Force Apprentice Recruitment 2025 – Apply Online for 144 Posts, Important Dates |
UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026 : Age Limit | Total Posts |
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UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026: Eligibilty Criteria |
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UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026: Vacancy Details | ||
| Course / Academy | Vacancies | Required Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun | 100 | Graduation in any discipline |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala | 26 | Engineering Degree |
| Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad | 32 | Graduation with Physics & Maths at 12th OR B.E/B.Tech |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – Men | 275 | Graduation in any discipline |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – Women | 18 | Graduation in any discipline |
Salary |
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Required Documents for Application |
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How To Fill UPSC CDS I Recruitment Online Form 2025? |
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UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026 : Mode Of Selection |
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| Follow Whatsapp Channel | Whatsapp channel |
| Follow Telegram Channel | Telegram channel |
SOME USEFUL IMPORTANT LINKS | |
| Notification | Notification PDF |
| Apply Online | Apply Online |
| Official Website | Website Link |
| Follow WhatsApp channel | Whatsapp Channel |
| 👉PunjabJobAdda.com |
UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026 : FAQ;s |
Q1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS I 2026? Q2. How many vacancies are available? Q3. What is the age limit for CDS 2026? Q4. What is the application fee? Q5. What qualifications are required? Q6. Is there negative marking in CDS? Q7. What is the selection process? Q8. When will the CDS I 2026 exam be conducted? Q9. Are final-year students eligible? Q10. Can candidates from any state apply? |

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