The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will close applications for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) 1 2026 exam very soon. The last day to apply is December 30, 2025 , at 6 PM . This exam is a big chance for young students to join the Indian Armed Forces as officers. UPSC aims to fill 451 vacancies through this exam. Students who want to join the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, or Officers Training Academy must apply online at upsconline.nic.in before the deadline.
The CDS 1 2026 exam will take place offline, using pen and paper, on April 12, 2026 . Students should make sure to complete their application quickly to avoid any last-minute rush.
Key Dates for CDS 1 & CDS 2 2026 Exams
Here are the important dates for the Combined Defence Services exams in 2026:
| Event | Date |
| CDS 1 Notification Released | December 10, 2025 |
| CDS 1 Application Starts | December 10, 2025 |
| CDS 1 Application Ends | December 30, 2025 (6 PM) |
| CDS 1 Exam Date | April 12, 2026 |
| CDS 2 Notification Released | May 20, 2026 |
| CDS 2 Application Window | May 20, 2026 to June 09, 2026 |
| CDS 2 Exam Date | September 14, 2026 |
Who Can Apply for CDS 1?
This exam is for students who want to become officers in different parts of the Indian Armed Forces. These include:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Indian Naval Academy
- Air Force Academy
- Officers Training Academy (OTA)
Each academy has specific age and qualification rules that students must check in the official notification.
Documents Needed to Apply Online
Before you start filling out the CDS 1 application form, keep these important documents and details ready:
- Scanned image of your recent photograph
- Scanned image of your signature
- Your Class 10th Pass Certificate (for date of birth proof)
- Details of a valid Photo-Identity Proof (like Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID)
- Your Bank Account details to pay the application fee
How to Fill the CDS 1 Application Form 2026
Applying for the CDS 1 2026 exam is an online process. Follow these steps carefully:
- Step 1: Visit the Official Website. Go to the UPSC online application portal at upsconline.nic.in .
- Step 2: Create an Account (OTR). On the homepage, find and click on the “Account Creation” or “One Time Registration (OTR)” tab. Fill in all the details asked to register yourself.
- Step 3: Upload Documents. Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as required.
- Step 4: Get Login ID. UPSC will generate a Login ID and send it to your registered mobile number and email ID. You might also get a Universal Registration Number (URN).
- Step 5: Login to Apply. Use your registered email ID and password, or your registered mobile number and OTP, or your URN and password to log in.
- Step 6: Select Exam. Go to the "Latest Exam" section and click on the link for the CDS 1 exam.
- Step 7: Fill Application Form. Fill in all the details asked in the application form accurately.
- Step 8: Pay Application Fee. Pay the required application fee using your bank account details.
- Step 9: Choose Exam Centre. Select your preferred exam centre from the available options.
- Step 10: Review and Submit. Carefully check all the information you have entered. Make sure everything is correct. Then, submit your CDS form.
- Step 11: Print Confirmation. After submitting, print a copy of your application form for your records.
Do Not Miss the Deadline
The deadline of December 30, 2025, at 6 PM is firm. UPSC does not usually extend application dates. Students are advised to apply well before the last day to avoid any technical issues or heavy website traffic. Checking all details before final submission is very important to prevent mistakes that could lead to rejection.
