📌 Exam Notification Summary
Exam Name
Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026 (CDS I 2026)
Conducting Authority
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Notification Release / Registration Start Date
10 December 2025
Last Date to Apply Online
30 December 2025 (till 6:00 PM)
Exam Date
12 April 2026
Application Mode
Online only via UPSC Online Portal
📊 Number of Vacancies (Tentative)
| Academy / Course | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala | 26 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad | 32 |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – SSC (Men) | 275 |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – SSC (Women) | 18 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 |
⚠️ The number of vacancies is tentative and may change as per service requirements.
UPSC CDS (I) 2026 Notification Released: Apply Online for 451 Defence Officer Vacancies
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026 notification for recruitment into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The CDS (I) 2026 examination offers a golden opportunity for graduates aspiring to become commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
As per the notification, a total of 451 tentative vacancies have been announced across the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) for both men and women candidates. The examination will be conducted on 12 April 2026.
The online application process has commenced from 10 December 2025, and eligible candidates can submit their applications up to 30 December 2025 (6:00 PM) through the official UPSC online portal. Applications submitted through any other mode will not be accepted.
Candidates selected through the written examination will be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, followed by medical examination and final merit listing. Final selection will be based on written exam performance, SSB assessment, medical fitness, and availability of vacancies.
Aspirants are advised to carefully read the official notification to ensure they meet the age, educational qualification, and physical standards before applying.