UPSC CDS 2026 Recruitment: 451 Posts, Check Eligibility

UPSC CDS 2026 Recruitment: Massive Recruitment for 451 Posts – Apply Now & Check Eligibility Criteria

UPSC CDS 2026 Recruitment: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 1, 2026, opening doors for aspiring candidates to join India’s premier defence academies. A total of 451 vacancies are available, offering a golden opportunity for eligible candidates to serve the nation. The online application process has already begun, and interested aspirants should complete their registration before the last date, December 30, 2025, at 6 PM.

UPSC CDS 2026 Recruitment: Total Seats and Academy-wise Distribution

According to the official UPSC notification, 451 posts are up for grabs under CDS 1 2026 across four esteemed academies:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA): 100 posts
• Indian Naval Academy (INA): 26 posts
• Air Force Academy (AFA): 32 posts
• Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Men): 275 posts
• OTA (Women): 18 posts

Selected candidates will commence their training between January and April 2027, depending on the respective academy.

Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS 2026 Recruitment: Age Limit & Educational Qualification

Eligibility varies for each academy. Below is a detailed breakdown:

1. Age Limit:

• IMA & INA (Unmarried Men): Born between January 2, 2003, and January 1, 2008.
• OTA (Men & Women): Born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2008.
• AFA: Age should be 20 to 24 years as of January 1, 2027.

2. Educational Qualifications:

• IMA & OTA: Graduate degree from a recognized university.
• INA: Engineering degree is mandatory.
• AFA: Candidate must have a B.Tech degree or a graduation degree with Mathematics and Physics as main subjects.

Application Fee

The application fee for General, OBC, and EWS candidates is Rs. 200. SC, ST, and all female candidates are exempted from paying the fee. Payment can be made online via net banking, debit, or credit card.

UPSC CDS 2026 Recruitment: Selection Process

The selection for CDS 1 2026 will be carried out in four stages:

1. Written Examination – The first stage, testing candidates’ knowledge and aptitude.
2. SSB Interview – Shortlisted candidates will be assessed for leadership, intelligence, and personality traits.
3. Document Verification – Verification of educational certificates, identity proof, and other documents.
4. Medical Examination – Candidates must be medically fit as per the standards of the respective academy.

UPSC CDS 2026 Recruitment: How to Apply

Candidates must follow these steps to successfully apply:

1. Visit the official UPSC websites: upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in.
2. Register and create a login ID.
3. Fill in the application form with accurate personal and educational details.
4. Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, and other required documents.
5. Pay the application fee (if applicable) and submit the form.

UPSC CDS 2026 Recruitment notification offers a prestigious opportunity to serve in the Indian Armed Forces and build a career of pride and honor. Candidates are advised to carefully read the official notification and ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before applying.