Introduction
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is one of the most sought-after defence exams conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It offers entry into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officer’s Training Academy (OTA).
If you are planning to appear for CDS I 2026, it is important to clearly understand the eligibility criteria, age limit, and application process before applying. This guide will help you with all the details you need to ensure you meet the requirements and successfully complete the application process.
CDS I 2026 Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility for CDS is divided into four major aspects: Nationality, Age & Marital Status, Educational Qualification, and Physical Standards.
1. Nationality
Candidates must be:
A citizen of India, OR
A subject of Nepal/Bhutan, OR
A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India, OR
A person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, or East African countries with the intention of permanently settling in India.
👉 Candidates belonging to the last three categories must have a certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India.
2. Age Limit and Marital Status (CDS I 2026)
The age limits differ for each academy:
Indian Military Academy (IMA):
Age: 19–24 years (Unmarried male candidates only).
Indian Naval Academy (INA):
Age: 19–24 years (Unmarried male candidates only).
Air Force Academy (AFA):
Age: 20–24 years as of January 1, 2027.
Upper age limit is 26 years for candidates holding a valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).
Candidates must be unmarried.
Officer’s Training Academy (OTA – Men):
Age: 19–25 years (Unmarried male candidates only).
Officer’s Training Academy (OTA – Women):
Age: 19–25 years (Unmarried women, widows, or divorcees who have not remarried).
3. Educational Qualification
IMA & OTA: Graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
INA: Degree in Engineering from a recognized university or institution.
AFA: Degree (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering.
👉 Candidates appearing in the final year of their degree can also apply, provided they can submit proof of passing the exam by the time of SSB interview.
4. Physical Standards
Candidates must be physically fit as per UPSC and Ministry of Defence guidelines.
Key requirements:
Good mental and physical health.
No physical disabilities or chronic diseases.
Minimum acceptable height:
Men – 157.5 cm (AFA – 162.5 cm).
Women (OTA) – 152 cm.
Vision standards vary for each academy (corrected vision allowed).
👉 Candidates are advised to undergo a medical check-up before applying to avoid rejection at a later stage.
CDS I 2026 Application Process Explained
The CDS I 2026 application form will be released online on the UPSC official website (www.upsc.gov.in). The process generally involves the following steps:
Step 1: Online Registration
Visit the UPSC website.
Click on “Apply Online for CDS I 2026” under the Examination tab.
Registration is divided into Part I and Part II.
Step 2: Part I Registration
Fill in personal details such as name, DOB, nationality, email ID, and mobile number.
Select your preferred academies (IMA, INA, AFA, OTA).
Step 3: Part II Registration
Pay the application fee:
₹200 for General and OBC candidates.
No fee for SC/ST candidates and female applicants.
Upload scanned copies of passport-size photograph, signature, and photo ID proof.
Step 4: Final Submission
Preview the application form carefully.
Submit and download the final application form.
Keep a printed copy for future reference.
CDS I 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
Notification Release Date: December 2025
Application Start Date: December 2025
Last Date to Apply: January 2026
Admit Card Release: March 2026
CDS I 2026 Exam Date: April 2026
👉 Candidates are advised to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Why Choose Victor Growth for CDS I 2026 Preparation?
Clearing CDS requires strong conceptual knowledge, time management, and SSB interview preparation. This is where Victor Growth plays a key role:
Expert faculty specializing in CDS syllabus.
Structured study materials covering English, GK, and Mathematics.
Mock tests and previous year paper discussions.
Personalized guidance for SSB interview and physical test readiness.
Proven track record of successful selections in CDS and OTA entries.
👉 With Victor Growth’s guidance, you can confidently prepare for CDS I 2026 and take a step closer to becoming a commissioned officer.
FAQs on CDS I 2026 Eligibility, Age Limit, and Application Process
Q1. Can final-year students apply for CDS I 2026?
Yes. Final-year students can apply, but they must submit proof of graduation before the SSB interview.
Q2. What is the age limit for OTA in CDS I 2026?
For OTA (Men and Women), the age limit is 19–25 years.
Q3. Do women candidates have to pay the application fee for CDS I 2026?
No. Women candidates are exempted from paying the application fee.
Q4. What is the minimum percentage required in graduation for CDS I 2026?
There is no minimum percentage requirement. A simple graduation degree is sufficient.
Q5. Can married candidates apply for OTA?
No. Only unmarried men and women (along with widows/divorcees who haven’t remarried) are eligible for OTA.
✅ Final Note:
The CDS I 2026 Exam is your gateway to joining the prestigious Indian Armed Forces. Make sure you fulfill the eligibility requirements, stay within the age limit, and follow the application process carefully. For expert coaching, personalized guidance, and maximum success chances, join Victor Growth – your trusted partner in defence exam preparation.
