UPSC CDS I Recruitment
UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026: Notification Out for 450+ Vacancies — Apply Online
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the CDS I 2026 notification for recruitment into India’s prestigious defence academies — IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. Candidates aspiring for a career as commissioned officers can now submit their applications online from 10 December 2025 to 30 December 2025 (till 6 PM).
The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) is conducted twice every year to select eligible male and female candidates for Permanent Commission and Short Service Commission positions. This time, more than 450 vacancies have been announced for various academies, with training set to begin in January 2027 / April 2027.Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|
| Application Start | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
| CDS I Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Written Result | Expected in May 2026 |
Application Fees
| Category | Amount |
|---|
| General / OBC | 200 |
| SC / ST | Exempted |
| Female | Exempted |
Age Limit (As on )
How to Apply
- Visit the UPSC online portal: upsconline.nic.in
- Complete the Universal Registration Number (URN) process.
- Fill the Common Application Form (CAF) for CDS.
- Upload documents — photo, signature, and ID proof.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit the form and download the confirmation page.
Important Links
UPSC CDS I 2026 Vacancy Details & Eligibility
1. Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
Vacancies: 100
Education: Graduation in any discipline
Age Limit: 19–24 years
2. Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala
Vacancies: 26
Education: Engineering Degree
Age Limit: 19–24 years
3. Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad
Vacancies: 32
Education:Graduation with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level OR B.E. / B.Tech
Age Limit: 20–24 years
4. Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai — Men
Vacancies: 275
Education: Graduation in any discipline
Age Limit: 19–25 years
5. Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai — Women
Vacancies: 18
Education: Graduation in any discipline
Age Limit: 19–25 years