About Union Public Service Commission Recruitment 2026
Union Public Service Commission has invited applications for Combined Defence Services Exam I 2026. There are 451 vacancies to be filled through this drive.
Eligible candidates are encouraged to submit their applications online at the earliest. Early application helps avoid last-minute rush and potential technical glitches on the website.
Key highlights — age limit: 19 years–25 years years; application fee varies by category. Candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before applying. Detailed information about the selection process, exam pattern, and syllabus is available in the sections below.
Key Highlights
Vacancy Details — Total 451 Posts
| Post Name | Vacancies | Qualification | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMA (Indian Military Academy) | 100 | Bachelor Degree in Any Stream from Any Recognized University in India. | — |
| INA (Indian Naval Academy) | 26 | Engineering Degree from Any Recognized University in India. | — |
| AFA (Air Force Academy) | 32 | Bachelor Degree in Any Stream with Physics & Math at 10+2 Intermediate Level OR Engineering Degree | — |
| OTA (Officers’ Training Academy) | 293 | Bachelor Degree in Any Stream from Any Recognized University in India. | — |
Important Dates
| Application Start | 10/12/2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30/12/2025 |
| Exam Date | 12/04/2026 |
| Admit Card Release | 02/04/2026 |
| Last Date Pay Exam Fee | 30/12/2025 |
| Result Available | 08/05/2026 |
Application Fee
| General | 100/- |
| OBC | 100/- |
| EWS | 100/- |
| SC | 0/- |
| ST | 0/- |
| 0/- |
Age Limit & Relaxation
| Minimum Age | 19 years Years |
| Maximum Age | 25 years Years |
| Age Cutoff Date | 01/01/2027 |
| Relaxation (IMA/INA) | 19-24 years |
| Relaxation (AIR/FORCE) | 20-24 years |
| Relaxation (OTA) | 19-25 years |
| Relaxation (EXTRA) | As per UPSC CDS I Recruitment Rules |
* Age relaxation is applicable as per government rules for reserved categories.
Educational Qualification & Eligibility
Bachelor's Degree in Any Stream (with Physics & Math at 10+2 for AFA, Engineering Degree for INA) from a Recognized University in India.
Documents Required
* Candidates must carry original documents for verification at the time of interview / document verification.
How To Apply
Visit the official website of Union Public Service Commission — the official website.
Read the official notification carefully and check your eligibility.
Click on the "Apply Online" / "Registration" link for Combined Defence Services Exam I 2026.
Complete the registration by providing a valid email ID and mobile number.
Fill in all required details: personal information, educational qualifications, work experience (if applicable), and address.
Upload scanned copies of your photograph (passport size), signature, and required documents as per the specifications.
Pay the application fee online through the available payment gateway (if applicable).
Review all entered details carefully before final submission.
Submit the application form and take a printout / save a PDF copy for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum educational qualification for Combined Defence Services Exam I 2026?
Bachelor's Degree in Any Stream (with Physics & Math at 10+2 for AFA, Engineering Degree for INA) from a Recognized University in India.
What is the age limit for Combined Defence Services Exam I 2026?
Minimum Age: 19 years years.
Maximum Age: 25 years years.
Age relaxation is applicable as per government norms.
What is the application fee for Combined Defence Services Exam I 2026?
General: 100/-
OBC: 100/-
EWS: 100/-
SC: 0/-
ST: 0/-
Female: 0/-
What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS I 2026?
The last date to apply online is 30 December 2025.
What is the application fee for General category candidates?
The application fee for General, OBC, and EWS candidates is Rs. 100/-.
Is there any application fee for SC/ST candidates?
No, application fee for SC and ST candidates is Nil (Rs. 0/-).
What are the total number of vacancies for UPSC CDS I 2026?
A total of 451 vacancies are announced across all posts.
What is the age limit for IMA and INA?
Candidates must be between 19 and 24 years of age as on 1 January 2027.
What educational qualification is required for INA?
Candidates must have an Engineering Degree from a recognized university.
When is the UPSC CDS I exam scheduled?
The exam date is 12 April 2026.
How can I pay the application fee?
The fee can be paid through e-Challan, Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
When will the admit card be available?
The admit card will be available from 2 April 2026.
Can female candidates apply for UPSC CDS I 2026?
Yes, female candidates can apply. The application fee for female candidates is Nil.
What is the age relaxation for SC/ST candidates?
Age relaxation is provided as per UPSC CDS I Recruitment Rules, but the exact details are not specified in the notification.
What documents are needed to fill the application form?
Candidates need a scanned photo, signature, ID proof, educational certificates, caste certificate (if applicable), and other basic details.
When is the result for UPSC CDS I expected?
The result is expected to be available on 8 May 2026.
What is the selection process for UPSC CDS I?
The selection process is not detailed in the notification; candidates should refer to the official UPSC guidelines.
Important Links
Important links will be added once the official notification is released.