UPSC Opens CDS I 2026 Applications for 451 Posts; Last Date to Apply December 30
New Delhi, 12th December 2025: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination I 2026, inviting applications for 451 vacancies across the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). The CDS exam is one of India’s most prestigious pathways for aspirants seeking a commission in the Armed Forces.
The online application process has begun and will close on 30 December 2025. The written examination is scheduled for 12 April 2026 and will be conducted in offline mode at centres across the country.
According to the notification, a total of 451 vacancies across various defence academies. The Indian Military Academy (IMA) is open to unmarried male candidates, while the Indian Naval Academy (INA) requires candidates with engineering or technical qualifications. The Air Force Academy (AFA) seeks candidates who have studied Physics and Mathematics in Class 12 and possess relevant degrees. The Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) offers opportunities for both male and female candidates. The number of posts varies across academies and includes openings for both permanent commission and short service commission.
Age Limits:
IMA & INA: 19–24 years
AFA: 20–24 years
OTA: 19–25 years
Educational Qualifications:
IMA & OTA: Bachelor’s degree
INA: Engineering degree
AFA: Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level or Bachelor of Engineering
Candidates must also meet the prescribed medical and physical standards as per UPSC and the respective academies.
Application Process
-Applications are to be submitted online via upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in
-Completing One-Time Registration (OTR)
-Filling the CDS I 2026 application form
-Uploading required documents
-Paying the application fee
-Downloading the confirmation page
UPSC advises aspirants to verify eligibility, choose exam centres carefully, and review all instructions before submitting the application.
Selection Procedure:
1. Written Examination
-IMA, INA, AFA: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics
-OTA: English and General Knowledge
2.SSB Interview / Personality Test
3.Medical Examination
4.Final Merit List
