UPSC CDS I Result 2026 Released – Check Combined Defence Services Exam Result & Merit Status
Description
UPSC CDS I Result 2026 released online. Check CDS merit list, exam details, eligibility, age limit, vacancies, selection process, and defence academy updates.
UPSC CDS I Result 2026 – Latest Update
- The Union Public Service Commission has officially announced the UPSC CDS I Result 2026 for candidates who appeared in the Combined Defence Services Examination. Applicants who participated in the written examination can now check their qualifying status and prepare for the next stage of the recruitment process.
- The Combined Defence Services examination is conducted for recruitment into prestigious defence academies including the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers’ Training Academy. Every year, thousands of defence aspirants participate in this national-level examination to secure officer-level positions in the Indian Armed Forces.
- Candidates qualifying in the written examination become eligible for the Services Selection Board interview process and further medical examination stages.
UPSC CDS I Recruitment 2026 – Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Authority | Union Public Service Commission |
| Examination Name | Combined Defence Services Examination I 2026 |
| Recruitment Type | National Level Defence Examination |
| Total Vacancies | 394 Posts |
| Examination Mode | Offline Written Examination |
| Result Status | Released |
| Job Category | Defence Services |
| Selection Process | Written Exam, SSB Interview, Medical Test |
| Official Organization | UPSC |
UPSC CDS I Important Dates 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 30 December 2025 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 30 December 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | 02 April 2026 |
| CDS I Examination Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Result Declaration | Available Now |
UPSC CDS I Application Fee Details
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 100/- |
| SC / ST | Rs. 0/- |
| Female Candidates | Rs. 0/- |
Candidates were allowed to submit the application fee through debit card, credit card, net banking, or e-challan payment methods.
UPSC CDS I Age Limit 2026
| Academy | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 19–24 Years |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 19–24 Years |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 20–24 Years |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) | 19–25 Years |
Reserved category candidates received age relaxation according to UPSC Combined Defence Services recruitment rules.
UPSC CDS I Vacancy Details 2026
| Academy Name | Total Posts | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 | Bachelor Degree in any stream |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 | Engineering Degree |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 | Graduation with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level or Engineering Degree |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) | 293 | Bachelor Degree in any stream |
About UPSC CDS Examination 2026
- The Combined Defence Services Examination is one of the most popular defence recruitment examinations in India. It provides opportunities for eligible graduates to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as commissioned officers.
- The examination evaluates candidates through written tests, personality assessments, intelligence checks, and physical fitness standards. Selected candidates receive professional military training before joining their respective academies.
- Due to career stability, national service opportunities, and officer-level responsibilities, the CDS examination attracts a large number of aspirants every year.
How to Check UPSC CDS I Result 2026
Candidates can follow the simple process below to access their result online.
Step 1: Visit the Official UPSC Portal
Open the official Union Public Service Commission website using a secure internet browser.
Step 2: Open the Result Section
Search for the “UPSC CDS I Result 2026” notification available on the homepage.
Step 3: Download the Result PDF
Click on the active result link to open the merit list document.
Step 4: Search Your Roll Number
Use the search feature and enter your roll number carefully.
Step 5: Verify Qualification Status
Check whether your roll number appears in the qualified candidates list.
Step 6: Save the Result Copy
Download and print the result PDF for future recruitment stages.
UPSC CDS Selection Process 2026
The CDS recruitment process generally includes the following stages:
- Written Examination
- Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Candidates must qualify at every stage to receive final selection into defence academies.
Subjects Included in CDS Written Examination
The written examination generally includes the following subjects depending on academy preference:
- English
- General Knowledge
- Elementary Mathematics
The Air Force and Naval Academy branches usually require stronger technical and mathematics preparation compared to other academies.
Why CDS Recruitment is Popular Among Defence Aspirants
The Combined Defence Services examination is considered an excellent opportunity for graduates seeking officer-level careers in the Indian Armed Forces. It provides disciplined training, leadership development, career growth, and opportunities to serve the nation.
Many candidates preparing for government jobs and defence services consider CDS recruitment one of the most prestigious career paths after graduation.
UPSC CDS I Result 2026 – FAQ
Q1. When was the UPSC CDS I Result 2026 released?
The result was officially released on 08 May 2026.
Q2. How many vacancies are available in CDS I Recruitment 2026?
A total of 394 vacancies were announced.
Q3. What qualification is required for CDS recruitment?
Candidates must possess a Bachelor Degree from a recognized university. Engineering qualifications are required for some technical posts.
Q4. What is the age limit for CDS I Examination 2026?
The age limit varies according to academy and ranges between 19 to 25 years.
Q5. What happens after qualifying the written examination?
Qualified candidates are called for the Services Selection Board interview and medical examination.
Q6. Is Mathematics compulsory for all CDS posts?
Mathematics is mainly important for Air Force and Naval Academy eligibility requirements.