Combined Defence Services Examination

UPSC

🟡 Opening Soon

Important Dates

Application Opens20-05-2026
Application Closes09-06-2026
Admit Card30-08-2026
Exam Date13-09-2026
Result2026-05-01

Who Can Apply

  • Indian Military Academy (IMA): Degree from a recognized university; Age limit 19 to 24 years.
  • Indian Naval Academy (INA): Degree in Engineering from a recognized university; Age limit 19 to 24 years.
  • Air Force Academy (AFA): Degree from a recognized University (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering; Age limit 20 to 24 years.
  • Officers' Training Academy (OTA): Degree from a recognized university; Age limit 19 to 25 years (Unmarried males and females).

Documents You Need

  • ☐Scanned recent passport-size photograph (JPG format)
  • ☐Scanned signature (JPG format)
  • ☐Valid Photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, Passport, or Driving License)
  • ☐Class 10th Certificate for age verification
  • ☐Graduation Degree Certificate or Final Year Marksheet
📋 Open Interactive Checklist

Exam Fee

CategoryFee
General/EWS₹200
OBC-NCL₹200
SC/ST/PwD₹0
Apply on Official Website →

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the academies under CDS?+

IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.

Are final-year college students eligible for the CDS exam?+

Yes. Candidates studying in the final year of their degree course are fully eligible to apply, provided they do not have any active backlogs at the time of the SSB interview and can submit proof of passing by the deadline designated by the UPSC.

Can female candidates apply for all defense branches through CDS?+

No. Female candidates are exclusively eligible to apply for the Officers' Training Academy (OTA) Non-Technical course. The IMA, INA, and AFA branches are restricted to male candidates.

About Combined Defence Services Examination

Combined Defence Services Examination is conducted by UPSCevery year. It is one of India's most important Defence entrance examinations. The exam is held in mode and is open to candidates who meet the eligibility criteria.

Combined Defence Services Examination Important Dates 2026

The application process for Combined Defence Services Examination 2026 is expected to begin in 20-05-2026. Candidates should keep track of all important dates and deadlines.

How to Apply for Combined Defence Services Examination

Candidates can apply for Combined Defence Services Examination through the official website at https://upsc.gov.in. Make sure to have all required documents ready before starting the application.

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