UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 202 – 451 Vacancies
The UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 notification has been released with 451 posts across IMA, INA, AFA and OTA. This detailed update covers key information on eligibility, exam pattern and application process. Candidates aiming for UPSC defence jobs 2026 can now apply for these newly announced vacancies.
📘 Overview – UPSC CDS 1 2026 Recruitment
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026 |
| Recruiting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Notification Date | 10 December 2025 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 |
| Application Mode | Online only |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Selection Stages | Written Exam + SSB Interview |
🧮 Vacancy Breakdown CDS 1 2026 Vacancies
The CDS 1 2026 vacancy breakdown provides a clear view of how the 451 posts are distributed across all academies. Understanding this division helps candidates choose their preferred academy and align their preparation accordingly.
| Course / Academy | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy, Dehradun | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala | 26 |
| Air Force Academy, Hyderabad | 32 |
| Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (SSC Men) | 275 |
| Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (SSC Women) | 18 |
| Total | 451 |
🔗 Important Links for CDS Application
| Purpose | Official Link |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | Apply Here |
| UPSC Website | UPSC Portal |
| Official Notification | Download Here |
💰 CDS Salary Structure and Benefits
Understanding the salary structure of CDS officers helps candidates recognise the strong financial and lifestyle advantages that come with a career in the Armed Forces. Along with a solid pay scale, officers receive a wide range of allowances and benefits that make the role highly rewarding.
⭐ Stipend During Training
Gentlemen and Lady Cadets at IMA, OTA, AFA or INA receive a stipend of ₹56,100 per month.
This amount corresponds to the starting pay of Level 10, which becomes the base salary after commissioning.
🎖️ Pay Level on Commissioning
After successful completion of training, candidates are commissioned as Lieutenant (or equivalent).
The pay scale falls under Level 10: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 with steady increments and promotions.
🪖 Key Allowances
Officers receive various allowances depending on posting and operational requirements:
Military Service Pay (MSP): ₹15,500 per month
Dearness Allowance (DA)
Field Area Allowance
High Altitude Allowance
Transport Allowance
Uniform Allowance
🏅 Additional Perks & Lifestyle Advantages
Free medical facilities for the officer and dependents
CSD canteen benefits at subsidised rates
Government accommodation & ration benefits
Insurance cover of approx. ₹1.25 crore
Pension and retirement benefits ensuring long-term security
🎓 CDS 1 2026 Requirements Eligibility Criteria
Understanding the eligibility criteria is essential before applying for CDS 1 2026. The UPSC notification outlines clear rules for educational qualifications and age limits for each academy.
📘 Educational Qualifications
IMA – A degree from a recognised university.
OTA – A degree from a recognised university.
INA – An Engineering degree is mandatory.
AFA – A degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level, or a Bachelor of Engineering.
Final-year students are also allowed, but they must submit proof of passing within the deadlines mentioned in the PDF.
🗓️ Age Limit Requirements
IMA – Unmarried male candidates born between 2 Jan 2003 and 1 Jan 2008.
INA – Same age requirement as IMA.
AFA – Candidates must be 20 to 24 years old, born between 2 Jan 2003 and 1 Jan 2007.
OTA Men – Unmarried males born between 2 Jan 2002 and 1 Jan 2008.
OTA Women – Unmarried women, issueless widows, and issueless divorcees born between 2 Jan 2002 and 1 Jan 2008.
🧭 Selection Process CDS 1 2026 Recruitment Stages
The CDS 1 2026 selection procedure involves two major stages designed to evaluate a candidate’s knowledge, personality, and officer-like qualities. Each stage plays a crucial role in determining final merit, making it important for aspirants to understand how the process works.
1. Written Examination
The written exam pattern differs based on the academy you apply for.
IMA, INA, AFA candidates appear for three papers.
OTA candidates appear for two papers only.
2. SSB Interview
The SSB is conducted in two stages, assessing both mental and physical suitability for a career in the Armed Forces.
Stage I: Includes the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) Test and Picture Perception & Description Test (PP&DT).
Stage II: Consists of Psychology Tests, Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks, and a formal Interview.
📝 Exam Pattern CDS 1 2026 Paper Structure
The CDS 1 2026 exam follows an objective-type format designed to test a candidate’s comprehension, awareness, and analytical skills. Each paper includes negative marking, and candidates must follow all instructions strictly as per the UPSC guidelines.
General Instructions for All Candidates
✔ All papers are objective type.
✔ Mathematics and General Knowledge are available in Hindi and English.
✔ Negative marking applies: 0.33 marks deducted per wrong answer.
✔ Calculators and electronic devices are not allowed.
Exam Pattern for IMA, INA, and AFA
Candidates applying for IMA, INA, or AFA will attempt three papers:
English – 100 marks, 2 hours
General Knowledge – 100 marks, 2 hours
Elementary Mathematics – 100 marks, 2 hours
Exam Pattern for OTA
OTA candidates will attempt two papers only:
English – 100 marks, 2 hours
General Knowledge – 100 marks, 2 hours
For IMA, INA, AFA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 hours |
For OTA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 hours |
📅 Important Dates CDS 1 2026 Exam Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
| CDS 1 Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
🖊️ CDS 1 2026 Online Application Steps
The CDS 1 2026 application process is fully online and must be completed carefully, as UPSC does not allow any corrections after submission. Candidates must follow each step in order to ensure successful form submission.
Complete Universal Registration Number (URN)
Fill Common Application Form (CAF)
Upload documents including live photograph
Complete Exam-specific module (fee & centre selection)
Submit and lock application—no corrections allowed after submission
💳 Application Fee CDS 1 2026 Payment Details
The CDS 1 2026 notification outlines a simple and transparent fee structure for candidates. Payment must be completed online during the application process, and certain categories are fully exempted from paying any fee.
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹200 |
| Female | Exempted |
| SC / ST | Exempted |
📂 Documents Required
Before appearing for the SSB or completing later stages, candidates must keep essential documents ready as mentioned in the official CDS 1 2026 notification. These documents help verify age, education, and identity without delays in the selection process.
✔ Matriculation/Secondary School Certificate (Date of Birth proof)
✔ Degree/Provisional Degree + Marksheets
✔ Final-year students: Bonafide certificate from college
✔ Photo ID (Aadhaar/Voter ID/PAN etc.)
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🌟 Final Word – Your Journey to Defence Starts Here
The UPSC CDS 1 2026 Notification opens a gateway for dedicated aspirants ready to serve the nation with honour and discipline. With 451 vacancies across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and OTA, this is a golden opportunity for defence aspirants looking for a stable and prestigious career.
Wishing you clarity, focus, and success in your preparation — may your hard work lead you to the uniform you dream of wearing.
❓ FAQs – UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026
The selection process includes a written examination followed by the SSB interview stages.
UPSC has released 451 total vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA
Yes, final-year candidates may apply, but they must submit proof of graduation before the specified deadline during SSB.
A degree is required for IMA and OTA, an engineering degree for INA, and degree with Physics & Maths at 10+2 or B.E for AFA.
The age limits vary by academy, ranging approximately from 20 to 24 for AFA and based on birth year for others.
The fee is ₹200 for general category applicants, while Female, SC, and ST candidates are exempt.