Overview
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the 2026 Combined Defence Services (CDS) recruitment for 451 posts across the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers' Training Academy. Candidates aged 19‑24 with a recognised degree can apply online from 10 December 2025 to 30 December 2025. The selection process involves a written exam, SSB interview, and medical examination, with a starting salary of Rs. 56,100 per month. The official notification and application portal are available on the UPSC website.
Key Details
- Organization
- Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Qualification
- Degree from a recognised University (varies by course)
- Vacancies
- 451
- Posted
- 10/12/2025
- Last date to apply
- 30/12/2025 (up to 06:00 PM)
Important Dates
| Notification Release Date | 10/12/2025 |
| Online Application Start Date | 10/12/2025 |
| Last Date for Online Application | 30/12/2025 (up to 06:00 PM) |
| Examination Date | 12/04/2026 |
| Written Result Declaration | May 2026 (Tentative) |
| Course Commencement (IMA/INA/AFA) | January 2027 |
| Course Commencement (OTA) | April 2027 |
Important Links
Vacancy Details
Indian Military Academy, Dehradun: 100; Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala: 26; Air Force Academy, Hyderabad: 32; Officers' Training Academy, Chennai (Men): 275; Officers' Training Academy, Chennai (Women): 18
Selection Process
Stage 1 – Written Examination; Stage 2 – Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview; Stage 3 – Medical Examination
How to Apply
Visit the official website https://upsconline.nic.in, Create an account and generate a Universal Registration Number (URN), Fill the Common Application Form (CAF) with personal details, Upload a recent photograph and capture a live photo, Fill the Examination Specific Module with preferences for services (IMA/INA/AFA/OTA), Upload required documents (date of birth proof, educational certificates, etc.), Select an examination centre from the available options, Pay the application fee online (if applicable) via Credit/Debit Card, UPI, or Net Banking, Submit the application and note down the application number, Print a copy of the application for future reference
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the important dates for UPSC CDS 1 Exam Notification 2026 - Apply Online for 451 Posts?
Notification Release Date: 10/12/2025; Online Application Start Date: 10/12/2025; Last Date for Online Application: 30/12/2025 (up to 06:00 PM); Examination Date: 12/04/2026; Written Result Declaration: May 2026 (Tentative); Course Commencement (IMA/INA/AFA): January 2027; Course Commencement (OTA): April 2027
What is the application fee?
General/OBC Male: Rs. 200; Female: No Fee; SC/ST: No Fee
What is the age limit?
19 to 24 years (varies by course)
What is the selection process?
Stage 1 – Written Examination; Stage 2 – Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview; Stage 3 – Medical Examination