🏛️ Central Govt📍 All India✓ Verified Notice

UPSC Combined Defense Services (CDS) Examination (I) 2026

Organization: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) (UPSC)
Advt No: 02/2026-CDS-I

Quick Summary: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) invites applications for the Combined Defense Services (CDS) Examination (I) 2026 for admission to the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers' Training Academy. This is a prestigious opportunity for graduates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers.

📅 Important Dates

Notification Date	N/A
Apply Start Date	15/12/2025
Apply Last Date	14/01/2026
Exam Date	13/04/2026

💳 Application Fee

General / OBC	₹200
SC / ST	Free
Female	Free

🎓 Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Qualification Required: Graduate

Bachelor's Degree from a recognized University or equivalent. For Indian Naval Academy (INA), an Engineering degree is mandatory. For Air Force Academy (AFA), a Bachelor's Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level, or a Bachelor of Engineering.

Age Limits: 19 to 24 years.

⚡ Selection Process

1Written Examination (Objective Type)

2Service Selection Board (SSB) Interview/Personality Test

3Medical Examination

4Final Merit List

📎 Required Documents

Aadhar Card
Educational Certificates (10th, 12th, Graduation Degree)
Caste Certificate (if applicable)
Passport size photographs (recent)
Scanned signature

✍️ How to Apply Online

Candidates must apply online through the official UPSC Online Application website (upsconline.nic.in). Fill in all required details, upload scanned copies of photograph and signature, and pay the application fee online through Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card or by cash through SBI bank challan. Carefully review the application before final submission.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the age limit for CDS (I) 2026?

Candidates must be between 19 and 24 years of age as per the specific cutoff dates mentioned in the detailed notification. Unmarried male/female candidates are eligible.

Is there any application fee for female candidates?

No, female candidates are exempted from paying the application fee for the UPSC CDS Examination.

What is the educational qualification required for CDS (I) 2026?

A Bachelor's Degree from a recognized University or equivalent is generally required. Specific qualifications apply for INA (Engineering Degree) and AFA (Bachelor's Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or B.E/B.Tech).