The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026, inviting online applications for 451 vacancies across the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Officers’ Training Academy. The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) remains one of the most prestigious national-level defence exams, offering young aspirants the opportunity to serve the nation as commissioned officers. Candidates who are passionate about joining the armed forces and meet the eligibility criteria can now apply online before the closing date.
In this detailed guide, we cover everything you need to know about the UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 notification — including eligibility, vacancy details, exam date, application process, syllabus, and selection procedure.
What is UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026?
The UPSC Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) is conducted twice every year to recruit officers for:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
- Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala
- Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Men & Women)
Selected candidates undergo rigorous training before being commissioned as officers. The exam attracts thousands of defence aspirants every year due to the prestige, discipline, and honour associated with serving in the Indian Armed Forces.
The UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 notification outlines a total of 451 vacancies, making it a golden opportunity for eligible graduates.
UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 – Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services (CDS) 1 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Total Vacancies | 451 |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Selection Process | Written Exam + SSB Interview + Medical Exam |
| Exam Level | National |
| Training Academies | IMA, INA, AFA, OTA |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
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UPSC CDS 1 Vacancy 2026
The total number of vacancies under UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 is 451. These vacancies are distributed across the following academies:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA): 100 (approx.)
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): 26 (approx.)
- Air Force Academy (AFA): 32 (approx.)
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Men): 275 (approx.)
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Women): 18 (approx.)
(The exact distribution will be as per the official notification.)
These vacancies will be filled through a highly competitive selection process consisting of written tests and SSB interviews.
Important Dates – UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Candidates must keep track of the following key dates:
- Notification Release Date: 10 December 2025
- Application Start Date: 10 December 2025
- Last Date to Apply: 30 December 2025
- CDS 1 2026 Exam Date: 12 April 2026
Ensure that you complete the online application before the deadline to avoid any technical issues.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Meeting the eligibility conditions is mandatory. Applications will be rejected if any criterion is not fulfilled.
Nationality
Candidates must be:
- A citizen of India, or
- A subject of Nepal or Bhutan, or
- A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st January 1962
Educational Qualification
| Academy | Qualification Required |
|---|---|
| IMA & OTA | Graduation in any discipline |
| INA | Engineering Degree |
| AFA | Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level OR Engineering Degree |
Final-year students may also apply, subject to proof of qualification at the time of SSB.
Age Limit – UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Age limits vary depending on the academy:
- IMA & INA: 19–24 years
- AFA: 20–24 years
- OTA (Men & Women): 19–25 years
Only unmarried candidates are eligible for most courses. Candidates must verify detailed conditions in the official notification.
Application Fee
- General/OBC: ₹200
- SC/ST/Female: NIL
The fee can be paid via: ✔ Debit/Credit card
✔ Net banking
✔ Offline challan
UPSC CDS 1 Selection Process 2026
The selection process under UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview (Services Selection Board)
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Candidates must qualify each stage to progress further.
CDS 1 Exam Pattern 2026
For IMA, INA & AFA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
For OTA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
Each paper is objective-type and carries negative marking.
SSB Interview Process
The SSB Interview evaluates:
- Intelligence
- Personality
- Leadership skills
- Psychological fitness
- Communication ability
- Team spirit
It includes two stages:
- Stage I: Screening
- Stage II: Psychological Tests, Group Tasks & Interview
Only shortlisted candidates make it to the final merit list.
Salary Structure After CDS Selection
Officers selected through UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 receive:
- Training Stipend: ₹56,100 per month
- After Commissioning: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10)
Additional benefits include:
✔ Military service pay
✔ Field area allowance
✔ Uniform allowance
✔ Free medical facilities
✔ Housing benefits
A career in defence not only offers financial stability but also unmatched pride and honour.
How to Apply Online for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Follow these steps:
- Visit upsconline.nic.in
- Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
- Login using credentials
- Select CDS 1 2026 Application
- Fill personal & academic details
- Upload photo & signature
- Pay application fee (if applicable)
- Submit and download confirmation
Candidates should keep a printed copy for future reference.
Best Preparation Strategy
To crack UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026, candidates should:
- Understand exam pattern & syllabus
- Practice previous year papers
- Strengthen basics in English & GK
- Revise mathematics concepts
- Improve physical fitness
- Develop officer-like qualities
Consistency and discipline play a major role in success.
Why Choose a Career Through CDS?
Joining the armed forces offers:
- Respect & recognition
- Job security
- Adventure-filled lifestyle
- Leadership opportunities
- Chance to serve the nation
The CDS path remains one of the most noble and esteemed career options in India.
Key Highlights – UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
- A total of 451 vacancies
- Open to graduates and final-year students
- Prestigious officer-level entry
- Attractive salary and perks
- National-level competitive exam
- Transparent and merit-based selection
Final Words
The UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 notification brings an excellent opportunity for ambitious and patriotic youth to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers. With 451 vacancies across various academies, aspirants should not miss this chance. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are determined to build a prestigious defence career, start your preparation early and submit your application before the deadline.
Serving the nation in uniform is not just a career choice — it is a duty, an honour, and a lifelong commitment to courage and integrity. If you dream of leading from the front, CDS 1 2026 is your gateway.
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