Hi friends! Welcome back to the blog. Today, I’m excited to share the complete summary of the UPSC CDS (I) 2026 Notification. If you have aspirations of serving in the Indian Armed Forces as an officer, then this is your golden opportunity! The upcoming UPSC CDS exam can pave your way to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or Officers Training Academy (OTA), depending on your qualifications and preferences.
Meta Description
The CDS (I) 2026 notification has just been released! UPSC is offering 451 vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA for courses starting in 2027. This post outlines eligibility criteria, age limits, pay scales, vacancies, selection processes, and a straightforward application guide.
CDS 2026 Notification Overview
| Job Role | Organization/Company |
|---|---|
| UPSC CDS (I) 2026 | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Qualification | Experience |
|---|---|
| Graduate / Engineering / Physics + Maths for AFA | Not required |
| Salary | Job Type |
|---|---|
| ₹56,000+ (Stipend during training for all academies) | Central Government – Defence |
| Location | Requirements |
|---|---|
| All over India (training at respective academies) | Discipline, leadership, physical fitness, communication |
About UPSC CDS
The UPSC CDS exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit officers for various branches of the Indian Armed Forces:
– Indian Army (IMA/OTA)
– Indian Navy (INA)
– Indian Air Force (AFA)
The selected candidates will undergo training in 2027.
Available Job Roles and Qualifications
1. Indian Military Academy (IMA) — Dehradun
- Vacancies: 100
- Qualification: Any Graduate
- Gender: Unmarried Men
- Age: Born between 02 Jan 2003 – 01 Jan 2008
2. Indian Naval Academy (INA) — Ezhimala
- Vacancies: 26
- Qualification: Engineering Degree
- Gender: Unmarried Men
- Age: Born between 02 Jan 2003 – 01 Jan 2008
3. Air Force Academy (AFA) — Hyderabad
- Vacancies: 32
- Qualification: Degree with Physics & Maths at 10+2, OR Engineering Degree
- Age: 20–24 years (relaxable to 26 for CPL holders)
4. Officers Training Academy (OTA) — Men
- Vacancies: 275
- Qualification: Graduation
- Age: Born between 02 Jan 2002 – 01 Jan 2008
5. Officers Training Academy (OTA) — Women
- Vacancies: 18
- Eligibility: Unmarried Women, Issueless Widows, Issueless Divorcees
- Age: Born between 02 Jan 2002 – 01 Jan 2008
Educational Qualifications Summary
| Academy | Qualification Needed |
|---|---|
| IMA | Any Graduation Degree |
| INA | Engineering Degree |
| AFA | Graduation with Physics + Maths at 12th / Engineering Degree |
| OTA (Men/Women) | Any Graduation Degree |
Salary and Benefits
Salary (Training Stipend):
All trainees at IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA receive a stipend of ₹56,100 per month, along with additional benefits after commissioning.
Age Limits Summary
| Academy | Age Requirement |
|---|---|
| IMA | 19–24 years |
| INA | 19–24 years |
| AFA | 20–24 years (26 for CPL holders) |
| OTA Men/Women | 19–25 years |
Job Roles and Responsibilities of CDS Officers
As an officer in the Indian Armed Forces, your responsibilities will include:
– Leadership and command of troops
– Strategic planning and operations
– Physical training and discipline
– National security duties
– Training and administration
– Participation in peacekeeping missions
– Technical and tactical decision-making
Other Benefits
– Free accommodation during training
– Medical facilities
– Canteen and travel concessions
– High career growth opportunities
– Opportunity to serve the nation with pride
– Strong pension and retirement benefits
Selection Process for CDS
The selection for the CDS includes three stages:
1. Written Examination: Different papers based on the academy:
– IMA/INA/AFA: English, GK, Maths
– OTA: English, GK
2. SSB Interview: Lasting 5 days, includes:
– Screening test
– Psychology tests
– GTO tasks
– Personal interview
3. Medical Examination & Final Merit List: Candidates who pass the previous stages will undergo a medical examination.
How to Apply for CDS 2026
To apply for the CDS 2026, follow these steps:
1. Click the APPLY NOW link provided on the UPSC website.
2. Create an account (Your Unique Registration Number will be generated).
3. Fill out the Common Application Form (CAF).
4. Upload all required documents and a recent photograph.
5. Complete the Exam-Specific Module (preferences, exam center, etc.).
6. Pay the application fee:
– ₹200 for General candidates
– Free for Female/SC/ST candidates
7. Submit your application and download the confirmation.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 (6 PM) |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
Final Words
If you are passionate about serving the nation, CDS represents the perfect opportunity to join the proud ranks of the Indian Defence Forces. The application process is straightforward, and the career ahead is filled with honor and responsibility.
Important Links
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. We do not charge any fee for this information, and the details have been collected from official sources. Always refer to the official website for the most accurate updates.