UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 process has officially begun, offering a golden opportunity for graduates who dream of joining the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Officers’ Training Academy. Every year, lakhs of candidates apply for this prestigious defence exam, making it one of the most competitive recruitment processes in India. This guide covers all important details including eligibility, dates, fees, and how to apply.
Important Dates for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
| Notification Release: | 10 December 2025 |
| Application Start Date: | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply: | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date: | 12 April 2026 |
| Admit Card: | To be released before exam |
Candidates applying for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 must ensure they submit the form before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
💰 APPLICATION FEE
| Gen/ OBC/ EWS: ₹200/- |
| SC/ ST: ₹Free |
| Pay the Examination Fee Through Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking/ Pay Offline Through E-Challan. |
AGE LIMIT : AS ON 01.07.2025
| Post Name | Age Limit |
| IMA & INA Age Limit: | 19 to 24 Years |
| Air Force Age Limit | 20 to 24 Years |
| OTA Age Limit | 19 to 25 Years |
For more complete information, please read the UPSC CDS 1 Notification 2026
🎯 What is UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026?
UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 exam is conducted to select suitable candidates for officer-level training at:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA)
The exam includes a written test followed by the SSB Interview and medical evaluation.
🧑🎓 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
✔ Nationality
Must be an Indian citizen.
✔ Age Limit
- IMA & INA: 19–24 years
- AFA: 20–24 years
- OTA: 19–25 years
✔ Educational Qualification
- IMA / OTA: Bachelor’s degree (any stream)
- INA: Engineering degree
- AFA: Graduate with Physics & Maths at 10+2 or Engineering degree
✔ Gender Eligibility
Women can apply only for OTA.
📝 Selection Process
The selection process of UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Only candidates who clear all stages will be selected for final training.
🖥️ How to Apply for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
Steps to fill the online form:
- Visit the official UPSC website.
- Open the UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 application link.
- Complete Part-I registration.
- Fill Part-II with detailed information.
- Upload documents (photo, signature, ID proof).
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit and print the confirmation.
IMPORTANT LINKS
| Apply Online | Log In & Create Account |
| Download Official Notification | English & Hindi |
| Official Website | https://upsconline.nic.in/ |
📚 Preparation Tips for Aspirants
To qualify UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026, follow these tips:
- Strengthen English grammar and vocabulary.
- Study GK regularly (defence, history, geography, polity).
- Practice maths regularly (for IMA/INA/AFA).
- Improve communication and confidence for SSB.
- Solve previous year papers.
✅ Conclusion
The UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 exam offers a prestigious path for young aspirants to join the Indian Armed Forces. Apply before 30 December 2025 and start preparing with dedication to increase your chances of success.
