CDS 1 2026 Exam Update: Online Application Started, Know How to Apply

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched the online application process for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination I, 2026. Candidates seeking admission in the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force or Officers' Training Academy can file their applications online through the official website. As per the recent information, the application period started on 10 December 2025 and will be available for the public until 30 December 2025.  The CDS 1 2026 examination is a yearly recruitment campaign that is among the top chances in the defence sector, where first-class students can get access to 451 positions in various ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌academies.

CDS 1 2026 Important Dates  

Vacancy Breakdown for CDS 1 2026

CDS 1 2026 Eligibility Criteria 

UPSC has outlined specific eligibility criteria for each academy. These include:

Note: For detailed eligibility criteria, candidates should see the official notification released by the UPSC.

How to Apply for CDS 1 2026: Step‑by‑Step Guide

Step​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ 1: Create an Account

Go to https://upsconline.nic.in/ and sign up with your basic details like:

• Name

• Date of Birth

• Mobile Number

• Email ID

With this step, you will be given your login credentials.

Step 2: Universal Registration (URN)

After the creation of an account, candidates are required to fill in the details in the URN module, which comprises:

• Personal details

• Address

• Identity verification

On completion of the formalities, UPSC grants a Universal Registration Number, which is compulsory for all future applications.

Step 3: On the website, fill out the CDS 1 2026 Application Form

Use your URN to log in and continue to the CDS-specific application form, where you need to:

• Choose academies for training

• Upload photograph & signature

• Provide educational details

• Pick an exam centre

Once the form is submitted, an Application Number is generated, which can be used for future reference.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

The Fee UPSC has set it as ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌follows:-

Payment can be made via:

• Debit/Credit Card

• Net Banking

• UPI

• Cash (via SBI challan)

CDS 1 2026 Selection Process

The CDS selection procedure includes:

• Written Examination

• SSB Interview

• Medical Examination

Successful candidates are admitted to their respective academies for further training.