UPSC CDS-I Exam Date 2026 – Out | 451 Vacancies
📌 Overview
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026. The exam is scheduled on April 12, 2026 for a total of 451 vacancies. This national level sarkari exam is for entry into defence services through the Combined Defence Services (CDS) route. Candidates should read the official notification and apply only through the UPSC online portal.
📅 Important Dates
| Application Start Date | December 10, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Application Last Date | December 30, 2025 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | December 30, 2025 |
| Exam Date | April 12, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Before Exam (Check UPSC website) |
| Result Date |
📊 Vacancy Details
| Total Vacancies | 451 |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy, IMA Dehradun | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy, INA | 26 |
| Air Force Academy Hyderabad | 32 |
| Officer Training Academy OTA | 275 |
| Officer Training Academy OTA (Women) | 18 |
✅ Eligibility Criteria
| Indian Military Academy, IMA Dehradun | Candidates must have passed Bachelor’s degree in any subject from a recognized university. Date of birth must be between January 2, 2003 and January 1, 2008. |
|---|---|
| Indian Naval Academy, INA | Candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university. Date of birth must be between January 2, 2003 and January 1, 2008. |
| Air Force Academy Hyderabad | Candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university. Date of birth must be between January 2, 2003 and January 1, 2008. |
| Officer Training Academy OTA | Candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university. Date of birth must be between January 2, 2002 and January 1, 2008. |
| Officer Training Academy OTA (Women) | Candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university. Date of birth must be between January 2, 2002 and January 1, 2008. |
🎯 Age Limit & Relaxation
| Age Criteria (By Post) | As per date of birth ranges specified under eligibility for each post (January 2, 2002 / January 2, 2003 to January 1, 2008). |
|---|---|
| Age Relaxation | Age relaxation as per UPSC rules for CDS-I Recruitment. |
💸 Application Fee
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹200 |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | ₹0 |
| Female Category | ₹0 |
| Payment Mode | Online payment through Debit Card, Credit Card, Internet Banking, IMPS, Cash Card/Mobile Wallet |
📝 Selection Process
| Selection Stages | Written Exam, Interview, Medical Examination, Physical Examination |
|---|
📘 Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The UPSC CDS-I Exam 2026 selection includes Written Exam followed by Interview, Medical and Physical Examinations. For detailed subject-wise syllabus please refer to the official UPSC notification linked below.
🧾 How to Apply
- Visit the UPSC online application portal: https://upsconline.nic.in/login.
- Fill the application form between December 10, 2025 and December 30, 2025.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable) using available online payment modes.
- Download and keep a copy of the submitted form and payment receipt for records.
🏢 About the Organization
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India's central agency authorized to conduct various examinations for recruitment to government services and posts. For official details visit the UPSC website.
🔗 Important Links
| Official Notification | https://upsc.gov.in/sites/default/files/Notif-CDSE-I-2026-Engl-101225.pdf |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | https://upsconline.nic.in/login |
| UPSC Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in/ |
| Admit Card Info | Candidates can check Admit Card on UPSC official website using Enrollment Number, Registration Number, or Date of Birth. |
| Official Result Source | https://upsc.gov.in/ |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does the application window open?
December 10, 2025
What is the last date to apply?
December 30, 2025
In what mode is the exam conducted?
Offline (Written exam followed by interview and medical/physical exams)
What is the exam level?
National level examination for entry into defence services
What are the basic eligibility requirements?
Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in relevant streams and age within specified limits as per UPSC norms.
Where will the official result be published?
https://upsc.gov.in/