UPSC CDS Exam Date 2026: Complete Schedule

Every year, UPSC helds the CDS test twice, it is known as CDS I and CDS II. The Commission has now announced all important dates for both test cycles in 2026.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the  sanctioned schedule for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2026, offering a clear schedule for every  aspirant preparing to join the Indian Armed Forces.  

What is the CDS test? 

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) test is held by UPSC to retain officers into 

• Indian Military Academy (IMA) 
• Indian Naval Academy (INA) 
• Air Force Academy (AFA) 
• Officers Training Academy (OTA) 

The CDS test is conducted in offline mode on OMR answer sheets and consists of written tests followed by SSB (Services Selection Board) interviews for campaigners who qualify the written stage. 

Complete Schedule for CDS 2026 

There's the full schedule for the 2026 CDS Exams 

Paper Pattern and Subjects 

The CDS written examination varies slightly based on the course chosen 

• For IMA, INA, AFA 
• English – 100 marks 
• General Knowledge – 100 marks 
• Mathematics – 100 marks 
• Total – 300 marks 

For OTA (Men & Women) 

• English – 100 marks 
• General Knowledge – 100 marks 
• Mathematics Paper – Not Applicable for OTA 
• Total – 200 marks 

All papers are of the objective type (multiple choice). There's negative marking for wrong answers. Campaigners must carry their admit cards, a valid print ID, and follow the test centre rules to enter the venue. 

Who Can Apply? Basic Eligibility 

• To apply for CDS, campaigners need to meet the education and age conditions 
• Educational Qualification varies for each academy 
• For IMA, AFA, and OTA A degree from a honored university 
• For INA: A degree with Physics and Mathematics at the degree level (or original) 

Age Limit 

• IMA 19 to 24 years
• NA 19 to 22 years
• AFA 19 to 23 years
• OTA 19 to 25 years

General guidance —  Campaigners must always check the official announcement for exact eligibility details. 

Important way after the written test 

After the written test, those who qualify will be called for the SSB Interview. 

• The SSB process generally involves 
• Stage I Screening test 
• Stage II Interview and group tasks 
• Medical Examination 

Final Selection List 

The final merit list is prepared based on performance in the written test and the SSB. Medical fitness and document verification are mandatory well before final joining. 

How to Apply 

• The application process involves 
• Filling particular and educational details 
• Uploading a photo and signature 
• Paying the application fees
• Submitting the form before the deadline 

Generally, UPSC opens the application link on the day of announcement release and closes it on the last date mentioned in the schedule. After submission, campaigners should download the evidence and print copies for future reference. 

Preparation Tips for Applicants 

• With the test dates now announced, applicants should begin or continue preparation with an approach 
• Revise all topics from English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics daily 
• Solve previous years’ question papers to understand patterns 
• Take mock tests to improve speed and accuracy
• Focus on weak areas and manage time efficiently in the test hall