UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026, inviting applications for the Combined Defence Services Examination I (CDS-I). A total of 451 vacancies have been announced for Lieutenant posts across IMA, INA, OTA, and Air Force Academy. Eligible candidates can apply online from 10 December 2025 through the official UPSC portal.
This examination offers one of India’s most prestigious defence career opportunities for candidates who wish to join the Army, Navy, or Air Force as Commissioned Officers. Detailed information on eligibility, age limit, qualifications, selection process, exam pattern, and how to apply is provided below.
UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 Overview:
| Recruitment Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Lieutenant (CDS Examination) |
| Total Posts | 451 |
| Last Date | 30 December 2025 |
| Salary | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500/- (Level-10) |
| Application Type | Online |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in |
| Job Location | All India |
| Join Telegram Group | Click Here |
Important Date:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
Application Fees:
| Category | Form Fees |
|---|---|
| GEN / OBC / EWS | ₹200/- |
| SC / ST / Sons of JCOs / ORs / Female | ₹0/- |
| Fee Payment Mode | Online |
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Age Limit & Eligibility Criteria:
For Indian Military Academy (IMA) & Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Unmarried male candidates
- Born between 02 January 2003 to 01 January 2008
For Officers Training Academy (OTA)
- Unmarried male candidates
- Born between 02 January 2002 to 01 January 2008
For Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Age limit: 20 to 24 years as of 01 January 2027
Educational Qualification:
- Any Graduate from a recognized university
- For INA: Degree in Engineering
- For AFA: Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 or Engineering Degree
(As per the standard CDS eligibility norms—customized details can be added if required.)
Vacancy & Qualification Details:
| Post Name | Vacancy | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| CDS (Lieutenant) | 451 | Any Graduate |
Salary:
Candidates selected through UPSC CDS will receive:
- Basic Pay: ₹56,100/- per month
- Maximum Pay: Up to ₹1,77,500/-
- Military service pay, allowances, uniform allowance, ration allowance, TA/DA, and other benefits are applicable as per government norms.
Selection Process:
The selection process includes the following stages:
- Written Examination
- Conducted by UPSC
- Subject-wise paper (English, GK, Mathematics for IMA/INA/AFA; English & GK for OTA)
- SSB / Personality Test / Interview
- 5-day selection procedure
- Psychological tests, group tasks, personal interview
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Candidates must clear all stages to receive appointment letters for respective academies.
How to Apply For UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026:
- Read the official CDS 1 Notification 2026 PDF.
- Visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in
- Click on the Apply Online link.
- Register using the One-Time Registration (OTR) system.
- Fill the online application form with correct details.
- Upload your photograph, signature, and required documents.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
Important Links:
| Action | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Notification |
| Apply Online Form | Apply Online |
| UPSC Official Website | UPSC |
| Join WhatsApp Group | CLICK HERE |
FAQs:
Q1. What is the last date for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026?
30 December 2025
Q2. How many vacancies are released for CDS 1 2026?
A total of 451 posts
Q3. What is the exam date for UPSC CDS 1 2026?
12 April 2026.
Q4. What is the age limit for CDS Air Force Academy?
20 to 24 years as of 01 January 2027.
Q5. What is the qualification required for CDS?
Any Graduate (with specific requirements for INA & AFA).