Description: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the Combined Defence Services (CDS) I Recruitment 2026 notification for admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officers Training Academy (OTA), Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy. Eligible candidates with a graduate degree or equivalent can apply online through the official UPSC portal. Selection will be based on Written Examination, SSB Interview, and Medical Examination.
Important Details (Two‑Column Format)
Important Dates
Event
Date
Notification Release Date
20 December 2025
Online Application Start Date
20 December 2025
Online Application Last Date
20 January 2026
Exam Date
To be notified (2026)
Result Declaration
After SSB and medical tests
Application Fee
Category
Fee Details
General / OBC
₹200/-
SC / ST / Female
Exempted
Payment Mode
Online (Net Banking / Debit/Credit Card, UPI)
Age Limit (as on 01 January 2026)
Course
Age Limit
IMA
19–24 Years
OTA (Men)
19–25 Years
OTA (Women)
19–25 Years
Naval Academy
19–22 Years
Air Force Academy
19–23 Years
Age Relaxation
As per UPSC / Defence rules
Total Vacancy Details
Course / Academy
Total Seats
IMA
Approx. 100–120 Seats
OTA
Approx. 150–200 Seats
Naval Academy
Approx. 50–70 Seats
Air Force Academy
Approx. 30–50 Seats
Total
Approx. 400–450 Seats (Check official notification for exact numbers)
Eligibility Criteria
Course / Academy
Eligibility Details
IMA / OTA / Naval / Air Force Academy
• Educational Qualification: Graduate / equivalent degree from recognized university (specific courses for Navy & Air Force). • Nationality: Indian citizen. • Age: As per academy-specific limits. • Physical Standards: Must meet UPSC / Defence medical and physical requirements.
