Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) invites online applications for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) I – 2026 for a total of 451 vacancies across the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA/OTA Women). Selected candidates will undergo training at the respective academies and will be commissioned as officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
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Key Dates
- Online application start date: 10 December 2025
- Last date to apply online: 30 December 2025
- Last date for fee payment: 30 December 2025
- Exam date: 12 April 2026
- Admit card: Before the exam (as per UPSC schedule)
Vacancy Details (Total: 451)
- Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun: 100
- Indian Naval Academy (INA): 26
- Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad: 32
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA): 275
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) (Women): 18
Responsibilities
This is a commissioning opportunity leading to officer roles in the Indian Armed Forces. Post-selection and training, responsibilities typically include:
- Leading and managing teams in operational and administrative environments.
- Planning and executing assigned duties in accordance with service regulations and standards.
- Maintaining discipline, operational readiness, and professional conduct.
- Participating in training, drills, and continuous professional development.
- Performing service-specific roles in the Army/Navy/Air Force as allotted.
Eligibility & Requirements
- Educational Qualification (academy-wise):
- IMA: Bachelor’s degree in any subject from a recognized university.
- INA: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university.
- AFA: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university.
- OTA: Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university.
- OTA (Women): Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university.
- Age Limit: As per UPSC rules. Published window indicates date of birth between 02 January 2003 and 01 January 2008 for applicable entries; for OTA/OTA (Women) the notice indicates 02 January 2002 to 01 January 2008. Candidates must verify exact eligibility in the official UPSC notification.
- Age Relaxation: As per UPSC regulations (if applicable).
- Medical & Physical Standards: Candidates must meet prescribed medical and physical standards as per service requirements.
Application Fee
- General / OBC / EWS: INR 200
- SC / ST: Nil
- All Female candidates: Nil
- Payment mode (online): Debit Card, Credit Card, Internet Banking, IMPS, Cash Card / Mobile Wallet
Selection Process
- Written Examination
- Interview
- Medical Examination
- Physical Examination
Benefits
- Opportunity to serve as a commissioned officer in the Indian Armed Forces after successful training.
- Structured training at premier defence academies (as allotted).
- Professional development, leadership training, and a respected career pathway.
- Service benefits and allowances as per applicable government/defence regulations (post-commissioning).
How to Apply
- Apply online via the UPSC application portal before 30 December 2025.
- Complete the application form carefully and pay the fee (if applicable) by the deadline.
- Review the official notification thoroughly before submitting the form, including eligibility, age criteria, and documentation requirements.
About the Company (Organization)
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India’s central recruiting agency responsible for conducting examinations for appointments to the services of the Union. UPSC conducts the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination to select candidates for officer training and commissioning into the Indian Armed Forces.
Official Website: https://upsc.gov.in/
Note: Candidates should rely on the official UPSC notification for final eligibility, vacancy distribution, and instructions.