UPSC CDS 1 2026: Gateway to 451 Officer Vacancies in Indian Defence Forces Last Updated: December 29, 2025 | Exclusive on Government Jobz 🚨 Final Call for Applications: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially opened registrations for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) I 2026. This is your chance to join the Indian Armed Forces as an Officer. With a total of 451 vacancies across premier academies, the last date to apply online is December 30, 2025. Government Jobz brings you a complete guide to this prestigious examination. UPSC CDS 1 2026: Examination Snapshot Here is a quick overview of the UPSC CDS (I) 2026 notification. For more such elite defence career opportunities, visit Government Jobz regularly. Exam Conducting Body Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Examination Name Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) I, 2026 Total Vacancies 451 (For courses commencing in Jan/Apr 2027) Stipend During Training ₹ 56,100/- per month Application Mode Online Only Application Dates 10th December to 30th December 2025 Written Exam Date 12th April 2026 Official Website www.upsc.gov.in Academy-Wise Vacancy Breakdown The 451 vacancies are distributed among the following prestigious training academies of the Indian Armed Forces: Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun 162nd DE Course (Jan 2027) Vacancies: 100 For: Unmarried Male Candidates Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala Executive Branch (Jan 2027) Vacancies: 26 For: Unmarried Male Candidates Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad 221 F(P) Course (Jan 2027) Vacancies: 32 For: Unmarried Male Candidates Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai 125th SSC Men & Women (Apr 2027) Vacancies: 275 (Men) + 18 (Women) For: Unmarried Men & Women Detailed Eligibility Criteria for CDS 1 2026 1. Nationality Citizen of India, or Subject of Nepal / Bhutan, or A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st January 1962 with the intention of permanent settlement, or A person of Indian origin (PIO) who has migrated with the intention of permanent settlement. A certificate of eligibility is required for candidates not covered in (a). 2. Age Limit & Marital Status (As on 1st January 2027) For IMA & Indian Naval Academy: Unmarried male candidates born between 2nd Jan 2003 and 1st Jan 2008. For Air Force Academy (AFA): Unmarried male candidates born between 2nd Jan 2003 and 1st Jan 2007 (20 to 24 years). For OTA (SSC Course for Men): Unmarried male candidates born between 2nd Jan 2002 and 1st Jan 2008. For OTA (SSC Women Non-Technical): Unmarried women, issueless widows, or issueless divorcees (not remarried) born between 2nd Jan 2002 and 1st Jan 2008. 3. Educational Qualification For IMA and OTA: A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. For Indian Naval Academy: A Bachelor of Engineering degree. For Air Force Academy: A Bachelor’s degree (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or a Bachelor of Engineering. 4. Application Fee General / OBC / EWS Candidates: ₹ 200/- SC / ST Candidates & Female Candidates: Exempted (No fee) Payment Mode: Online via Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. UPSC CDS Selection Process 2026 The path to becoming a Defence Services Officer involves three rigorous stages: Written Examination: Scheduled for 12th April 2026. It consists of objective-type papers on English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (for IMA, INA, AFA). SSB Interview: Candidates who qualify the written exam will be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, which spans 5 days and includes psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews. Medical Examination: Final selection is contingent upon being declared medically fit by the prescribed standards of the Armed Forces. Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online Follow these instructions carefully to complete your UPSC CDS application. Government Jobz recommends having scanned documents ready before starting. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the UPSC Online Application website at www.upsconline.nic.in. Part-I Registration: Click on the “CDS Exam (I) 2026” link. Complete the Part-I registration by filling in basic details like name, date of birth, and contact information to generate a registration ID. Part-II Form Filling & Upload: Log in with your ID. Fill the detailed application form. Upload a scanned photograph, signature, and other required documents in the specified format and size. Fee Payment & Final Submission: Proceed to pay the application fee online (if applicable). Review all details meticulously before the final submission. The form can be edited until the last date. Print Confirmation: After successful submission, take a printout of the final application form and payment receipt for your records and future stages of the selection process. Your Call to Serve the Nation Awaits This is one of the most prestigious examinations in India. Do not miss the deadline: 30th December 2025. Apply Now & Download Official Notification: UPSC Official Website | Apply Online Link For comprehensive preparation guides and more opportunities like the NDA Exam, stay connected with Government Jobz – your trusted companion in building a career of honor and service. Why Pursue a Career through UPSC CDS? Clearing the CDS exam opens the door to a career marked by prestige, challenge, and unparalleled growth: Leadership & Honor: Command respect as an officer in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. Adventure & Discipline: Experience a dynamic life filled with physical and mental challenges, fostering unparalleled discipline and character. Job Security & Perks: Enjoy one of the most secure careers with an attractive salary, allowances, accommodation, medical facilities, and pension. Service to the Nation: Fulfill the highest calling by contributing directly to the defense and security of India. For the latest updates on exam patterns, syllabus, and preparation strategies, bookmark Government Jobz. Tags: Jobs in india, india jobs, government jobs in india, sarkari naukri, upsc cds 1 2026, cds exam 2026, defence jobs, indian army officer vacancy, indian navy recruitment, air force academy, officers training academy, upsc online form, latest govt jobs, government jobz, free job alert, combined defence services exam, ssb interview © 2025 Government Jobz. This information is compiled from the official UPSC CDS (I) 2026 notification. Candidates are strongly advised to confirm all details from the official UPSC website before applying.