The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the application window for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination I 2026. This exam is a chance for young Indian students to join the Army, Navy, and Air Force as officers. Interested candidates must apply online by December 30 . UPSC aims to fill a total of 451 vacancies through this examination.
Students who wish to apply for CDS 1 2026 must visit the official UPSC website, upsconline.nic.in , to complete their application. It is important to remember that only online applications are accepted. No forms sent by post or any other offline method will be considered by UPSC.
CDS 1 2026 Application Fee Details
Candidates need to pay an application fee to complete their registration. The fee can be paid online using various methods, including Visa, Master, or Rupay Credit/Debit Cards, UPI Payment, or through internet banking facilities of any bank. The application fee paid for the exam is non-refundable, which means it will not be returned under any circumstances.
| Categories | Application Fee |
| General / OBC (Male) | INR 200 |
| SC / ST / Female / PwBD | Exempted |
As shown in the table, male candidates from the General and Other Backward Classes (OBC) categories must pay an application fee of INR 200 . However, female candidates, and those belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), or Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD) categories are exempted from paying the application fee. They do not need to pay any amount to apply.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for CDS 1 2026
The application process for the UPSC CDS 1 2026 exam is simple and completely online. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is submitted correctly:
- Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Open your web browser and go to the official UPSC online application portal: upsconline.nic.in . This is the only place where you can apply for the exam. - Step 2: Create an Account (for New Candidates)
On the homepage, look for the 'Account Creation' option. If you are applying for a UPSC exam for the first time, you must create a new account. This involves setting up your basic profile. - Step 3: Register Your Details
Enter your personal information, including your full name, date of birth, a valid email ID , and a working mobile number . These contact details are crucial for UPSC to send you important updates and notifications. - Step 4: Verify and Set Password
After entering your details, you will need to verify your email ID and mobile number. This is usually done by entering an OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your registered contact details. Once verified, create a strong password for your account. - Step 5: Log In to the Portal
Once your account is created and verified, you can log in to the UPSC application portal. You can log in using your registered email ID and password, or your registered mobile number and an OTP. If you have already completed Universal Registration, you can also log in using your Universal Registration Number (URN) and password. - Step 6: Complete Universal Registration Number (URN) Process
The CDS 1 application process involves three main stages: Account Creation, Universal Registration, and filling the Common Application Form. After creating your account, complete the Universal Registration part. This generates a unique URN for you, which helps track your applications across different UPSC exams. - Step 7: Fill the Common Application Form
Once your URN is generated, proceed to fill out the Common Application Form for CDS 1 2026. This form will ask for detailed information about your educational qualifications, preferred exam centers, and other necessary details. Fill all sections accurately. - Step 8: Pay the Application Fee
After filling the form, you will be directed to the payment gateway. Pay the required application fee (INR 200 for General/OBC male candidates; exempted for others) using one of the online payment options mentioned earlier (Credit/Debit Card, UPI, Internet Banking). - Step 9: Select Exam Centre
Choose your preferred exam centre from the available list. Make sure to select a centre that is convenient for you. - Step 10: Review and Submit
Before final submission, carefully review all the information you have entered in the application form. Check for any errors or mistakes. Once you are sure everything is correct, click on the 'Submit' button to finalize your application. It is advisable to take a printout or save a PDF copy of your submitted application form for future reference.
The application link for CDS 1 2026 is active on the UPSC online portal. Make sure to complete all steps before the deadline of December 30 to avoid any last-minute issues.
