UPSC CDS 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) (1), 2026. Eligible candidates can now apply online through the official websites, upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in. The notification provides details about vacancies, eligibility criteria, application fees, and the selection process.The UPSC CDS (1) 2026 notification invites applications for multiple courses, including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). Interested candidates should ensure they meet the prescribed age and educational requirements before submitting their applications.Vacancy details for UPSC CDS (1) 2026The total number of vacancies for UPSC CDS (1) 2026 is 451. The vacancies are distributed across different academies and courses as follows:
Eligibility criteria for UPSC CDS (1) 2026Candidates applying for IMA and INA must be unmarried males born not earlier than January 2, 2003, and not later than January 1, 2008. For OTA, unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2008, are eligible. Air Force Academy applicants should be aged between 20 and 24 years as of January 1, 2027. Educational qualifications vary according to the respective academy and course.UPSC CDS 2026: Application fees and mode of paymentThe application fee for general, OBC, and EWS candidates is Rs. 200. SC, ST, and female candidates are exempted from the fee. Payment must be made online through net banking, debit/credit card, or other available payment modes.Selection process for UPSC CDS (1) 2026The selection process consists of the following stages:• Written examination• Service Selection Board (SSB) interview• Document verification• Medical examination
Steps to apply online for UPSC CDS (1) 2026
Step 1: Visit the official website: upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in.Step 2: Register with a valid email ID and mobile number to generate a login ID and password.Step 3: Fill out the online application form with personal, educational, and course-related details.Step 4: Upload scanned documents and a recent passport-size photograph as per specifications.Step 5: Pay the application fee online and submit the form before the last date, December 30, 2025, 6:00 pm.Candidates are advised to check all details carefully and complete the application process before the deadline to avoid any inconvenience.
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