UPSC CDS 2026 Notification
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Overview of UPSC CDS 2026 Notification
According to the UPSC CDS 2026 Notification, candidates must submit their online applications by 30 December 2025 (till 6:00 PM). The application process includes creating a URN (Universal Registration Number), filling the Common Application Form, and uploading mandatory documents including a live photograph.
The e-Admit Cards for the exam will be released on the last working day of the week preceding the exam date. The Commission has implemented Aadhaar-based verification and strict identity requirements to ensure a smooth application process.
Total Vacancies as per UPSC CDS 2026 Notification
The UPSC CDS 2026 Notification lists 451 vacancies across various academies. These vacancies are tentative and may change depending on organisational requirements of the Armed Forces
Here is the breakup of vacancies:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun — 100 vacancies
- Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala — 26 vacancies
- Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad — 32 vacancies
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) Men — 275 vacancies
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) Women — 18 vacancies
These vacancies include reserved slots for NCC ‘C’ Certificate holders in specific courses.
For detailed notification: Click here https://upsc.gov.in/examinations/active-exams
Eligibility Criteria in UPSC CDS 2026 Notification
A). Nationality
Candidates must be:
- A citizen of India, or
- A subject of Nepal, or
- A person of Indian origin who migrated from specified countries to permanently settle in India
B). Age Limit, Marital Status & Gender
- IMA: Unmarried males born between 2 Jan 2003 – 1 Jan 2008
- INA: Unmarried males born between 2 Jan 2003 – 1 Jan 2008
- AFA: 20 to 24 years as of 1 Jan 2027 (CPL holders up to 26 years)
- OTA Men: Unmarried males born between 2 Jan 2002 – 1 Jan 2008
- OTA Women: Unmarried women, issueless widows, or issueless divorcees born between 2 Jan 2002 – 1 Jan 2008
Important note: Married individuals below 25 years are not eligible for AFA training.
C). Educational Qualification
- IMA & OTA: Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university
- INA: Engineering degree
- AFA: Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 OR BE/BTech
Final-year students may also apply but must submit proof of passing before course commencement.
Exam Pattern in UPSC CDS 2026 Notification
The UPSC CDS 2026 Notification confirms that the written examination will consist of objective-type papers with negative marking for incorrect answers.
For IMA, INA & AFA
Each paper is 2 hours and 100 marks:
- English
- General Knowledge
- Elementary Mathematics
For OTA (Men & Women)
- English — 100 marks
- General Knowledge — 100 marks
GK and Mathematics question papers will be bilingual (Hindi and English).
Syllabus Summary as per UPSC CDS 2026 Notification
The UPSC CDS 2026 Notification describes the syllabus as follows:
English
Designed to test vocabulary, comprehension, grammar, and effective language usage.
General Knowledge
Covers:
- Current events
- History & Geography
- Political and Economic knowledge
- Scientific developments
- Defence-related awareness
Elementary Mathematics
Topics include:
- Arithmetic (percentages, time & distance, profit & loss)
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Geometry
- Mensuration
- Statistics
Application Process Explained
According to the UPSC CDS 2026 Notification, candidates must apply online only through the official portal.
Important points include:
- No correction or modification is allowed after submission.
- Applicants must provide details of a valid Photo ID (preferably Aadhaar).
- A live photograph must be captured during the application.
- Candidates in Government service must inform their employer.
Application Fee
- ₹200 for general candidates
- No fee for Female/SC/ST candidates
Selection Process for CDS 2026:
The selection process includes:
- Written Examination
Candidates must secure minimum qualifying marks in each subject.
2) SSB Interview
A detailed two-stage selection process:
- Stage I: OIR Test + PP&DT
- Stage II: Psychological Tests, GTO Tasks, Interview, Conference
Only Stage II-qualified candidates undergo document verification and medical examination.
3). Final Merit List
Final selection is based on performance in:
- Written exam
- SSB
- Medical fitness
- Vacancy availability
Important Instructions from UPSC CDS 2026 Notification
The notification highlights several exam-day rules:
- Mobile phones and electronic devices are completely banned, even in switched-off mode.
- Black ballpoint pen only must be used for marking answers.
- Face authentication at the exam venue is mandatory.
- Candidates must reach the centre at least 30 minutes early; no late entry allowed.
Conclusion
The UPSC CDS 2026 Notification provides a complete roadmap for aspirants aiming for careers in the Indian Armed Forces. With detailed guidelines on eligibility, exam pattern, application instructions, and selection procedures, candidates can now begin preparing systematically. Reviewing the notification carefully and following the instructions without error is crucial for successfully clearing CDS (I) 2026 and securing a place in the Armed Forces.