The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is set to close the online application window for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I) 2026 tomorrow. Eligible candidates who have not yet applied must complete the registration process immediately through the official website upsc.gov.in. This recruitment drive aims to fill 451 vacancies across prestigious defence academies of India.
The CDS (I) exam is a golden opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as commissioned officers.
Table of Contents
📢 UPSC CDS (I) 2026: Key Highlights
Exam Name: Combined Defence Services Examination (I) 2026
Conducting Authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Total Vacancies: 451 Posts
Application Mode: Online
Last Date to Apply: Tomorrow
Official Website: upsc.gov.in
Candidates are advised not to wait until the last moment to avoid technical issues during submission.
🏫 Vacancy Details (Academy-Wise)
The 451 vacancies are distributed across the following academies:
Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala
Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Men & Women)
The exact number of vacancies for each academy is mentioned in the official UPSC notification.
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
IMA & OTA: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
INA: Degree in Engineering
AFA: Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or Engineering degree
Age Limit
Generally between 19 and 25 years, depending on the academy
Age relaxation is applicable as per UPSC rules
Candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility conditions before applying.
📝 UPSC CDS (I) Selection Process
The selection process involves multiple stages:
Written Examination (Objective type)
SSB Interview (Intelligence and Personality Test)
Medical Examination
Final selection is based on merit and medical fitness.
📥 How to Apply for UPSC CDS (I) 2026
Follow these steps to apply before the deadline:
Visit upsc.gov.in
Click on “Apply Online”
Select CDS (I) Examination 2026
Complete Part I registration
Fill Part II application including fee payment
Upload required documents and photographs
Submit the form and download the confirmation page
💰 Application Fee
₹200 for General/OBC candidates
No fee for SC/ST candidates and female applicants
⚠️ Important Instructions
✔ Submit the application before the deadline
✔ Double-check personal and academic details
✔ Keep a copy of the application form
✔ Use only the official UPSC website
🎯 Conclusion
With the UPSC CDS (I) Application Form 2026 last date tomorrow, aspirants should act quickly to apply for the 451 vacancies. CDS is one of the most respected defence examinations in India, offering a chance to serve the nation with pride and honor.
