The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 for 451 vacancies under the Combined Defence Services Examination (I) 2026. Eligible unmarried male and female candidates from all states can apply online through the official UPSC website.

The online application window is open from 10 December to 30 December 2025 (6:00 PM) and the UPSC CDS Examination 2026 will be conducted on 12 April 2026.

Candidates qualifying CDS will be trained at prestigious defence academies including the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy.

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Overview

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Important Dates

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Vacancy Details

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Application Fee

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Age Limit

(As per course eligibility reference year 2027)

✔ Only unmarried candidates are eligible.

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Educational Qualification

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Selection Process

Selection includes:

✔ Written Examination
✔ SSB Interview (Intelligence & Personality Test)
✔ Document Verification
✔ Medical Examination

Final merit list is prepared based on written + SSB marks.

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Exam Pattern

For IMA, INA & AFA

For OTA (Men & Women)

How to Apply for UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026

Follow these steps:

1️⃣ Visit upsc.gov.in
2️⃣ Open CDS-I 2026 Notification
3️⃣ Click Apply Online
4️⃣ Register & login
5️⃣ Fill application form correctly
6️⃣ Upload documents, photo & signature
7️⃣ Pay fee (if applicable)
8️⃣ Submit & print the form

UPSC CDS Recruitment 2026 – Important Links