UPSC CDS I Answer Key 2026 Released – Download Answer Key, Check Cutoff & Exam Analysis
Description
Download UPSC CDS I Answer Key 2026. Check exam analysis, expected cutoff, and step-by-step process to download the answer key.
📌 UPSC CDS I Answer Key 2026 – Download Now
- The UPSC CDS I Answer Key 2026 has been released for candidates who appeared in the Combined Defence Services Examination conducted on 12 April 2026. This answer key allows candidates to review their responses and estimate their scores before the official result is declared.
- This examination is one of the most competitive defence entry exams in India, conducted for recruitment into prestigious institutions like the Indian Military Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officer Training Academy.
- By checking the answer key, candidates can understand their performance level and prepare for the next stage of selection, which includes the SSB interview process.
📅 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
| Fee Payment Last Date | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | 02 April 2026 |
| Answer Key Available | 16 April 2026 |
💰 Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹200 |
| SC / ST | ₹0 |
| Female Candidates | ₹0 |
Payment can be made using Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, IMPS, or Mobile Wallet.
🎯 Age Limit (As per UPSC Rules)
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 02 January 2003 to 01 January 2008 |
Age relaxation is applicable as per official recruitment rules.
📊 Vacancy Details – Total 451 Posts
| Post Name | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 |
| Air Force Academy | 32 |
| Officer Training Academy (OTA) | 275 |
| OTA (Women) | 18 |
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
Indian Military Academy (IMA)
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Indian Naval Academy (INA)
Candidates must hold a degree in engineering from a recognized institution.
Air Force Academy
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering.
Officer Training Academy (OTA)
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in any stream.
OTA (Women)
Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree in any recognized discipline.
Candidates must also meet the required age criteria for each academy.
📥 How to Download UPSC CDS I Answer Key 2026
Follow these simple steps to download the answer key:
- Visit the official UPSC website
- Go to the “Examination” or latest updates section
- Find the CDS I Answer Key 2026 link
- Select your paper set and subject
- Download the answer key PDF
- Compare your answers with the official key
Candidates should calculate their expected marks using the official marking scheme for better accuracy.
📈 Expected Cutoff & Exam Insight
Based on previous trends and exam difficulty level, the expected cutoff for CDS I 2026 may fall in a moderate range. Candidates scoring above average have a good chance of qualifying for the next stage.
The actual cutoff will depend on factors such as exam difficulty, number of candidates, and overall performance.
📌 Importance of Answer Key
The answer key is a crucial tool for candidates preparing for defence jobs. It helps in:
- Estimating expected marks
- Identifying strong and weak areas
- Understanding exam pattern and difficulty
- Preparing for SSB interview stage
Candidates serious about sarkari naukri in defence sector should use the answer key effectively.
❓ FAQ – UPSC CDS I Answer Key 2026
Q1. When was the CDS I Answer Key 2026 released?
The answer key was released on 16 April 2026.
Q2. How can I download the CDS answer key?
You can download it from the official UPSC website through the examination section.
Q3. Is the answer key useful before the result?
Yes, it helps in estimating your score and understanding your chances of selection.
Q4. What is the total number of vacancies?
There are 451 vacancies available.
Q5. What is the next step after the written exam?
Candidates who qualify will be called for the SSB interview.