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The UPSC CDS 1 Application Form 2026 is expected to be released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Interested candidates must complete the registration process online through the official UPSC portal within the prescribed timeline.
This article provides complete details on the CDS 1 2026 application form, including eligibility, important dates, fees, and step-by-step instructions to apply.
Key Highlights of UPSC CDS 1 2026
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Expected Notification | December 2025 |
| Exam Frequency | Twice a year |
| Selection Process | Written Exam + SSB Interview |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in |
UPSC CDS 1 Application Form 2026: Overview
The UPSC CDS 1 Application Form 2026 will be available online only. Candidates must complete both parts of the registration—Part I and Part II—to successfully submit their application.
Applicants are advised to check eligibility criteria carefully before applying to avoid rejection at later stages.
Important Dates (Expected)
| Event | Date (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | December 2025 |
| Start of Application | December 2025 |
| CDS Form Last Date | January 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | March 2026 |
| CDS 1 Exam Date | April 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria for CDS 2026
Nationality
- Must be a citizen of India or subject of Nepal/Bhutan (as per UPSC norms)
Educational Qualification
- IMA/OTA: Graduation from a recognised university
- INA: Engineering degree
- AFA: Graduation with Physics & Maths at 10+2 level or Engineering degree
Age Limit (Age of CDS)
- IMA: 19–24 years
- INA: 19–24 years
- AFA: 20–24 years
- OTA:
- Male: 19–25 years
- Female: 19–25 years
CDS Form Fees 2026
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC | ₹200 |
| SC/ST/Female | Exempted |
Payment can be made via:
- Debit/Credit Card
- Net Banking
- SBI e-Challan
How to Apply for UPSC CDS 1 Application Form 2026
Follow these steps to complete the CDS apply process:
- Visit the official UPSC website: https://upsc.gov.in
- Click on “Online Application for Various Examinations”
- Complete Part I Registration (basic details)
- Proceed to Part II Registration
- Upload required documents:
- Photograph
- Signature
- Photo ID proof
- Pay the application fee (if applicable)
- Select preferred exam centre
- Submit the form and download confirmation
Admit Card for CDS Exam 2026
The admit card for CDS exam 2026 will be released approximately 2–3 weeks before the exam date. Candidates can download it using their registration ID or roll number from the UPSC website.
Details mentioned:
- Candidate’s name
- Roll number
- Exam centre
- Reporting time
CDS Selection Process
The CDS selection process consists of two stages:
1. Written Examination
- Objective-type questions
- Subjects:
- English
- General Knowledge
- Elementary Mathematics (for IMA, INA, AFA)
2. SSB Interview
- Psychological tests
- Group tasks
- Personal interview
Final selection is based on combined performance.
Official Source
- UPSC Official Website: https://upsc.gov.in
- Application Portal: https://upsconline.nic.in
FAQs on UPSC CDS 1 Application Form 2026
What is the CDS form last date 2026?
The last date to apply is likely to fall in January 2026.
What is the CDS form fees?
General and OBC candidates need to pay ₹200, while SC/ST and female candidates are exempted
What is the age of CDS exam eligibility?
The age limit varies from 19 to 25 years depending on the academy applied for.
How can I download the admit card for CDS exam 2026?
You can download it from the UPSC official website using your registration details.