UPSC CDS I Examination 2026 – Apply Online for 451 Posts (IMA, INA, AFA, OTA)

UPSC CDS I Examination 2026 – 451 Posts Apply Online

📢 Key Updates:
• Organization: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
• Exam Name: Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026
• Total Vacancies: 451 Posts
• Last Date: December 30, 2025

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released an official employment notification for the recruitment of 451 vacancies through the Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026. Interested and eligible unmarried male and female candidates may apply online starting from December 10, 2025.

1. Vacancy Details

Academy Name	Vacancies
Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun	100
Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala	26
Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad	32
Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Men)	275
Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai (Women)	18
Total	451

2. Educational Qualification

• IMA & OTA (Chennai): Degree from a recognized University or equivalent.
• Indian Naval Academy (INA): Degree in Engineering from a recognized University/Institution.
• Air Force Academy (AFA): Degree of a recognized University (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) OR Bachelor of Engineering.

3. Age Limit (As on 01/01/2027*)

• IMA & INA: Born between 02 Jan 2003 and 01 Jan 2008.
• Air Force Academy: 20 to 24 Years (Born between 02 Jan 2003 and 01 Jan 2007).
• OTA (Men & Women): Born between 02 Jan 2002 and 01 Jan 2008.

*Check official notification for precise cutoff dates.

4. Application Fee

General / OBC / EWS	₹ 200/-
Female / SC / ST	Nil

5. Important Dates

• Online Application Starts: December 10, 2025
• Last Date to Apply: December 30, 2025
• Exam Date: April 12, 2026

6. Important Web-Links

📄 Download Notification 🚀 Apply Online 🌐 Official Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS I Exam 2026?

The last date to submit the online application is December 30, 2025.

How many vacancies are available in UPSC CDS 2026?

There are a total of 451 vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.

When is the UPSC CDS I 2026 Exam Date?

The written exam is scheduled for April 12, 2026.