The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026. This recruitment is announced for 451 vacancies. The UPSC application process began on 10 December 2025 and will continue until 30 December 2025. Interested candidates can apply online and check all the detailed information on the official SarkariExam2026 website for UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026.
Important Dates for UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026
- Online Application Start Date: 10 December 2025
- Online Application Last Date: 30 December 2025
- Last Date for Fee Payment: 30 December 2025
- Exam Date: 12 April 2026
- Admit Card Release: Before the Exam
Candidates are strongly advised to verify all dates and details on the official UPSC website.
Application Fee for UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026
- General, OBC, EWS Candidates: ₹200/-
- SC/ST Candidates: No Fee (₹0/-)
- All Female Candidates: No Fee (₹0/-)
Payment Mode (Online):
Candidates can pay the application fee using any of the following secure methods:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Internet Banking
- IMPS
- Cash Card / Mobile Wallet
Ensure that the payment is completed before the last date to avoid application rejection.
UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026: Age Limit & Vacancy Details
- Age Limit (As Per UPSC Rules): Candidates must be born between 02 January 2003 and 01 January 2008.
- Age Relaxation: UPSC provides age relaxation for eligible candidates as per its official guidelines.
- Total Vacancies: 451
Candidates are advised to check the official UPSC notification for detailed age criteria and relaxation rules.
UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026: Vacancy Details
The UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026 offers a total of 451 vacancies across various academies. The post-wise distribution is as follows:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun: 100 Posts
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): 26 Posts
- Air Force Academy, Hyderabad: 32 Posts
- Officer Training Academy (OTA): 275 Posts
- Officer Training Academy (OTA) – Women: 18 Posts
Candidates are encouraged to review the official UPSC notification for complete details regarding each academy and post.
UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026: Post-Wise Eligibility Criteria
Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
Candidates should have completed a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Additionally, the date of birth must be between 02 January 2003 and 01 January 2008 to qualify.
Indian Naval Academy (INA)
Applicants are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university. The date of birth must fall between 02 January 2003 and 01 January 2008.
Air Force Academy, Hyderabad
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university. Eligible candidates should have a date of birth between 02 January 2003 and 01 January 2008.
Officer Training Academy (OTA)
Applicants should have completed a Bachelor’s degree in any field from a recognized university. The date of birth requirement is between 02 January 2002 and 01 January 2008.
Officer Training Academy (OTA) – Women
Female candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university, with the date of birth between 02 January 2002 and 01 January 2008.
Candidates can also check related opportunities like UP Police Assistant Operator Recruitment 2025 for more job updates.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS-I Online Form 2026
Candidates interested in UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026 can submit their applications online before 30 December 2025.
To apply directly, use the “Click Here” link provided in the Important Links section below. Alternatively, you can visit the official UPSC website to complete the application process.
Make sure to submit your application before the deadline to avoid any issues.
Note: Candidates are strongly advised to read the official UPSC notification carefully before filling out the form. Pay special attention to the last date, age limit, and educational qualifications to ensure eligibility.
UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026: Selection Process
The selection for UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026 will be conducted through a multi-stage process to ensure the most suitable candidates are chosen. The stages include:
- Written Examination – A comprehensive test to evaluate candidates’ knowledge and aptitude.
- Personal Interview – An assessment of personality, communication skills, and suitability for a defense career.
- Medical Examination – A thorough medical check to ensure candidates meet health standards.
- Physical Fitness Test – Evaluation of physical endurance and fitness required for defense training.
Candidates must successfully clear all stages to secure their final selection for the respective academy.
Important Links for UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026
| Action | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| View Official Notification | Click Here |
| Visit UPSC Official Website | Click Here |
UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does the online application for UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026 begin?
The online application process started on 10 December 2025.
What is the last date to submit the UPSC CDS-I online application?
The final date to apply online is 30 December 2025.
What is the age limit for UPSC CDS-I Recruitment 2026?
The age limit details are provided on the official UPSC notification and must be checked carefully before applying.
What are the eligibility criteria for UPSC CDS-I 2026 vacancies?
Candidates must have completed a graduate degree from a recognized university or institution.
What is the official website for UPSC?
The official website to access notifications and apply online is https://upsc.gov.in/.