CDS 1 2026 Notification Out – Eligibility, Exam Date, Syllabus
The CDS 1 2026 Notification has been officially released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), bringing a golden opportunity for aspirants who dream of becoming officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Every year, thousands of candidates appear for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination, making it one of the most prestigious officer-entry exams in India. At GAPS SSB, we bring you a clear, student-friendly explanation of the CDS 1 2026 Notification, covering important dates, eligibility criteria, vacancy details, exam pattern, syllabus, and the complete selection process—all in one place. CDS 1 2026 Notification – Overview The CDS 1 2026 Notification officially announces recruitment for IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA through a national-level competitive examination. Particulars Details Exam Name Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS 1 2026) Conducting Authority Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment For IMA, INA, AFA & OTA Exam Mode Offline (Pen & Paper) Exam Frequency Twice a year Selection Process Written Exam + SSB Interview + Medical Examination Official Website upsc.gov.in The CDS 1 2026 Notification is the starting point for candidates planning structured preparation for defence services. CDS 1 2026 Important Dates As per the CDS 1 2026 Notification, candidates must strictly follow the official timeline: Staying updated with the CDS 1 2026 Notification ensures you never miss a deadline. CDS 1 2026 Vacancy Details According to the CDS 1 2026 Notification, UPSC has announced approximately 451 vacancies across various academies. Academy Vacancies Educational Qualification Indian Military Academy (IMA) 100 Graduation in any discipline Indian Naval Academy (INA) 26 Engineering Degree Air Force Academy (AFA) 32 Graduation with Physics & Maths (10+2) or Engineering Officers Training Academy (OTA) 293 Graduation in any discipline Vacancy numbers mentioned in the CDS 1 2026 Notification may vary slightly in the final merit list. CDS 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria Before applying, candidates must carefully check the eligibility mentioned in the CDS 1 2026 Notification. Nationality Candidates must be: Age Limit (Academy-wise) Academy Age Limit IMA 19–24 years INA 19–22 years AFA 19–24 years OTA 19–25 years Educational Qualification Marital Status All eligibility rules are strictly followed as per the CDS 1 2026 Notification. CDS 1 2026 Written Exam Pattern The written exam structure is clearly defined in the CDS 1 2026 Notification. For IMA, INA & AFA Subject Marks Duration English 100 2 Hours General Knowledge 100 2 Hours Mathematics 100 2 Hours For OTA Subject Marks Duration English 100 2 Hours General Knowledge 100 2 Hours Important Points: CDS 1 2026 Syllabus Overview As highlighted in the CDS 1 2026 Notification, the syllabus remains consistent and exam-oriented. English General Knowledge Mathematics CDS 1 2026 Selection Process The CDS 1 2026 Notification clearly outlines the three-stage selection process: 1. Written Examination Candidates must clear the UPSC cut-off in each subject and overall. 2. SSB Interview Shortlisted candidates face a 5-day SSB process involving: 3. Medical Examination Final medical fitness is mandatory for commissioning. How to Apply for CDS 1 2026 Steps mentioned in the CDS 1 2026 Notification: Why Start Preparing Early for CDS 1 2026? The CDS 1 2026 Notification opens the door to: At GAPS SSB, aspirants are trained not just to clear the written exam but to excel in the SSB Interview with confidence and officer-like qualities. Final Words The CDS 1 2026 Notification is more than just an exam announcement—it is an invitation to serve the nation as a commissioned officer. With the right guidance, disciplined preparation, and consistent effort, success is achievable. If your goal is to wear the uniform and lead from the front, now is the time to act.
