The UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 notification invites applications for 451 vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA and OTA. This page is an authoritative, user-focused guide to the UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 — covering eligibility, vacancy breakup, key dates, application steps, selection process, syllabus summary, physical & medical standards, and proven preparation tips. Read every section carefully and follow the official links to apply on time.

Snapshot – UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 provides an entry to commission into the Indian Armed Forces. The exam tests academics, general awareness and aptitude, followed by the SSB personality evaluation and medicals. Candidates should ensure they meet all eligibility norms before applying.

Key Details👉UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

Important Dates👉UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

Vacancy Breakdown

Vacancy distribution for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 (course-wise):

Eligibility – Who can apply👉UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

Educational Qualifications

• IMA / OTA: Degree from a recognized university (any stream).
• INA: Engineering degree from a recognized institution.
• AFA: Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level or BE/BTech.
• Final year students may apply provisionally, subject to passing before joining.

Nationality & Domicile

Indian citizens, subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, and certain persons of Indian origin (as defined in the notification) may apply. Check the notification for full details.

Age Limits (as on 01-01-2027)👉UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

Age limits vary by academy. Read the official notification for exact date-of-birth ranges for each course; applications with incorrect DOB proof are liable to be rejected.

Selection Process & Exam Pattern👉UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

The selection pipeline for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 is multi-stage:

1. Written Exam (Objective): IMA/INA/AFA — English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics (300 marks). OTA — English & General Knowledge (200 marks). Negative marking: 0.33 per wrong answer.
2. SSB Interview (Personality & Intelligence): Stage I (OIR + PP&DT) and Stage II (GTO tasks, Psychology tests, Interview).
3. Medical Examination at Armed Forces Medical Services hospitals.
4. Final Merit List is prepared from combined written + SSB marks (subject to medical fitness).

Syllabus Summary

English: Comprehension, grammar, synonyms/antonyms, sentence structure, précis writing. General Knowledge: Current events, history, geography, polity, economy, defence, basic science. Elementary Mathematics: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, mensuration, statistics (10+2 level).

Physical & Medical Standards

Medical fitness rules are strict. Vision standards, physical measurements, and fitness tests vary by academy. Candidates should consult the official medical standards listed in the notification and prepare accordingly. Any pre-existing medical condition should be evaluated early to avoid later disqualification.

Salary, Training & Career Progression

During training, cadets receive a stipend. On commissioning, officers start at Level 10 (Rs. 56,100/-) with MSP and service-specific allowances. Promotions follow the armed forces’ time-scale and selection boards; the career path offers leadership roles, advanced training and specializations.

Application Fee & Payment👉UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

Payment methods include net banking, debit/credit cards and UPI. Keep transaction records and the confirmation page after submission.

How to Apply – Step by Step👉UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

1. Go to upsconline.nic.in.
2. Complete Part I registration and note the registration number.
3. Fill Part II with correct personal, educational, and category details.
4. Upload scanned photograph and signature as per prescribed dimensions.
5. Pay fee (if applicable) and submit the application.
6. Download & print the confirmation page and retain copies of documents.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

• Entering incorrect DOB — ensure Matriculation certificate DOB matches the form.
• Uploading wrong file formats or wrong size photo/signature.
• Missing the payment step (if fee applicable) and assuming form is submitted.
• Not saving the registration number — you will need it for admit card download and queries.
• Applying under the wrong category — incorrect category can lead to rejection.

Important Tips – Prepare Smart for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

1. Start with basics: Clear fundamentals in arithmetic and grammar before moving to advanced practice.
2. Daily current affairs: Read concise sources and make short notes for revision.
3. Mock tests: Take full-length mocks under timed conditions to build speed and accuracy and to practice negative marking strategy.
4. SSB awareness: Practice group tasks, improve communication skills and read about leadership examples — SSB evaluates personality, not just book knowledge.
5. Fitness routine: Maintain running, push-ups, sit-ups and basic obstacle practice to meet physical standards and boost confidence.

Guidelines & Expert Advice (Point-by-Point)👉UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026

1. Read the official notification: This is the final authority for eligibility, dates and medical standards.
2. Document checklist: Keep original certificates and multiple photocopies ready for SSB verification and medicals.
3. Time management: Prioritise high-weight topics in syllabus and revise regularly.
4. Quality over quantity: Choose 2–3 standard books and practice papers rather than many low-quality sources.
5. Mental fitness: Practice stress-management techniques — SSB panel looks for stable temperament.
6. Stay updated: Bookmark this UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026 page and the official UPSC site for corrigenda or date changes.

FAQ – Quick Answers

Q: When can I apply for UPSC CDS 1 Recruitment 2026? A: Online from 10 Dec 2025 to 30 Dec 2025 (06:00 PM).

Q: How many vacancies? A: 451 vacancies across academies.

Q: Where to apply? A: Apply via upsconline.nic.in.