UPSC 451 CDS-I Exam 2026 – Complete Recruitment Details
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UPSC 451 CDS-I Exam 2026
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced a recruitment notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026, offering a total of 451 vacancies. This is a great opportunity for eligible candidates to join the Indian Armed Forces. Interested applicants can apply online, with the application process starting soon. Below, you will find detailed information regarding the eligibility criteria, selection process, application procedure, and important dates related to this recruitment.
Overview
The UPSC CDS-I Exam 2026 is aimed at filling various posts in the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers’ Training Academy. This recruitment is crucial for individuals aspiring to serve in the defence sector.
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 |
Vacancy Details
| Course Name | Total Vacancies |
| Indian Military Academy, Dehradun – 162nd (DE) Course | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala – Executive Branch | 26 |
| Air Force Academy, Hyderabad – (Pre-Flying) Training Course | 221 |
| Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai – 125th SSC (Men) | 275 |
| Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai – 125th SSC Women | 18 |
| Total | 451 |
Eligibility Criteria
- For IMA and OTA: Degree from a recognized University or equivalent.
- For Indian Naval Academy: Degree in Engineering from a recognized University/Institution.
- For Air Force Academy: Degree from a recognized University with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or Bachelor of Engineering.
- Final year candidates can also apply.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India or other eligible nationalities as specified.
Age Limit
Age limits as of 01-01-2027 are as follows:
- IMA & Indian Naval Academy: Unmarried male candidates born between 02/01/2003 and 01/01/2008.
- Air Force Academy: Candidates aged 20 to 24 years (born between 02/01/2003 and 01/01/2007), with a relaxation for those holding a valid Commercial Pilot Licence.
- OTA (SSC Men): Unmarried male candidates born between 02/01/2002 and 01/01/2008.
- OTA (SSC Women): Unmarried women, issueless widows/divorcees born between 02/01/2002 and 01/01/2008.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee Amount |
| General/OBC Male Candidates | Rs. 200/- |
| Female Candidates | No Fee |
| SC/ST Candidates | No Fee |
Payment can be made via Credit/Debit Card or Internet Banking. Fees once paid are non-refundable.
Selection Process
The selection process consists of three stages:
- Stage 1 – Written Examination: Objective type questions.
- Stage 2 – SSB Interview: Intelligence and Personality Test.
- Stage 3 – Medical Examination: Conducted by designated Armed Forces Medical Services Hospitals.
Candidates must secure minimum qualifying marks in both the written exam and SSB test for final selection.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through the official UPSC portal. Ensure you have a Universal Registration Number (URN) and a valid photo ID for the application process. Note that once submitted, applications cannot be withdrawn.
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FAQ
Q: What is the total number of posts available for the CDS-I Exam 2026?
A: There are a total of 451 posts available for the Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026.Q: What is the salary range for the selected candidates?
A: The salary for selected candidates ranges from Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500 per month.Q: What is the last date to submit the application form?
A: The last date to submit the application form is 30-12-2025.Q: What educational qualification is required to apply?
A: Candidates must have a degree from a recognized university, but specific requirements vary by course.Q: How will the selection process be conducted?
A: The selection process will include a written exam followed by an interview and other assessments as per the guidelines.
How to Apply
- Step 1: Visit the official website and find the CDS-I Exam 2026 notification.
- Step 2: Click on the online application link and fill out the required details.
- Step 3: Upload necessary documents and pay the application fee.
- Step 4: Review your application and submit it before the deadline.
- Step 5: Print a copy of the submitted application for future reference.
