The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is gearing up to conduct the Combined Defence Services (CDS) 1 2026 examination on April 12, 2026. As the exam date approaches, candidates are eagerly anticipating the release of their admit cards, which are expected to be available in early April.
The CDS 1 2026 recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 451 vacancies across several prestigious institutions, including:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA)
The official notification for the examination was released on December 10, 2025, and the application window closed on December 30, 2025, at 6:00 PM. Candidates are advised to stay updated through the official UPSC website, www.upsc.gov.in, for any announcements regarding the admit card.
Admit Card Release and Access Instructions
The CDS 1 2026 Admit Card is anticipated to be released in the first week of April, approximately two weeks prior to the examination date. Candidates will need to download their admit cards online using their registration ID or roll number, along with their date of birth. It's crucial to note that no physical copies of the admit cards will be dispatched via post.
The admit card will include essential details such as:
- Candidate's name
- Photograph
- Exam venue
- Date and time for reporting
To gain entry into the examination hall, candidates must present a printed version of their admit card along with a valid photo identification document. Failure to provide these documents will result in disqualification from taking the exam.
Examination Schedule and Format
The CDS 1 2026 examination will be conducted in three sessions, adhering to Indian Standard Time:
- English: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- General Knowledge: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
- Mathematics: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Each session will consist of multiple-choice questions, totaling 300 questions for 300 marks. Candidates are required to prepare for three subjects: English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics, with two hours allocated for each section.
Eligibility Criteria and Result Timeline
To be eligible for the CDS 1 2026 examination, candidates must fall within a specific age range. Generally, those born between January 2, 2003, and January 1, 2008, qualify for the Indian Military Academy and Indian Naval Academy; however, age criteria may differ slightly for various academies.
The results for the CDS 1 2026 exam are expected to be announced tentatively in April or May, following the completion of the written examination. Candidates should keep an eye on the official UPSC website for the latest updates regarding the results.
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Conclusion
The upcoming CDS 1 2026 examination is a significant opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. With the admit card release on the horizon, it's vital for candidates to prepare thoroughly and ensure they meet all the requirements to sit for the exam.