UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 Notification Out: Apply Online Before December 30

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (1), 2026. This recruitment drive offers a golden opportunity for aspirants to join India’s Armed Forces. Eligible candidates can apply online through the official portals upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in. A total of 451 vacancies will be filled under this recruitment.

Last Date to Apply: December 30, 2025

This recruitment invites candidates passionate about serving the nation and seeking a government career. Applicants are advised to carefully review eligibility criteria, including age and educational qualifications, before submitting their applications.

Vacancies for UPSC CDS 1 2026

The notification includes openings for multiple academies and courses:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun – 162nd Course Jan 2027 [13 NCC]: 100 vacancies

• Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala – Executive/Hydro Jan 2027 [6 NCC + 1 Hydro]: 26 vacancies

• Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad – 221 F(P) Jan 2027 [3 NCC]: 32 vacancies

• Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – 125th SSC Men Apr 2027: 275 vacancies

• OTA, Chennai – 125th SSC Women Apr 2027: 18 vacancies

Eligibility Criteria

• For IMA and INA, only unmarried male candidates are eligible. Their date of birth should fall between January 2, 2003, and January 1, 2008.

• For OTA, unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2008, are eligible.

• AFA applicants must be between 20 and 24 years of age as of January 1, 2027.

• Educational requirements vary according to the academy and course applied for.

Application Fee

• General, OBC, and EWS candidates: ₹200

• SC, ST, and female candidates: Fee exemption

• Payment can be made online via net banking, debit/credit cards, or other available digital payment methods.

Selection Process

The UPSC CDS 1 2026 selection process comprises four key stages:

1. Written Examination

2. SSB Interview

3. Document Verification

4. Medical Examination

Only candidates who clear all stages successfully will be selected.

How to Apply

1. Visit upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in.

2. Register using a valid email ID and mobile number to create a login ID and password.

3. Complete the online application form with personal, educational, and course-related information.

4. Upload scanned copies of documents and a recent passport-sized photograph as per specifications.

5. Pay the application fee online and submit the form before 6:00 PM on December 30, 2025.

This recruitment is a prime opportunity for candidates aiming to serve in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, combining the honor of a government career with the pride of national service.