The UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2026 is a premier national-level defence examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for graduates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces as Commissioned Officers. CDS offers entry into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA – Men & Women).

Last date to apply: 30 December 2025 

CDS 2026 – Key Highlights

• Exam Name: Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS)

• Conducting Authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

• Courses Offered: IMA (Dehradun), INA (Ezhimala), AFA (Hyderabad), OTA (Chennai – Men & Women)

• Mode of Exam: Offline (Objective type

CDS Selection Process

The CDS selection process is conducted in three stages:

1. Written Examination

   • IMA / INA / AFA: English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics (300 marks)

   • OTA: English, General Knowledge (200 marks)

2. SSB Interview (Intelligence & Personality Test)

   • Marks equal to the written examination for each academy

3. Physical & Medical Standards Test

   • Candidates must meet prescribed physical fitness and medical standards for defence services

Eligibility Criteria for CDS 2026

Educational Qualification

• IMA & OTA: Graduation from a recognised university

• INA: Engineering degree

• AFA: Graduation with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level or Engineering degree

• Final-year students are eligible to apply

Age Limit

• IMA & INA: 19–24 years

• OTA (Men & Women): 19–25 years

• AFA: 20–24 years (up to 26 years with valid CPL)

Marital Status

• Only unmarried candidates are eligible

Exam Centres in Karnataka

• Bengaluru

• Dharwad

• Mysuru