CDS Application Form 2026: Apply Online for UPSC CDS Exam

The CDS Application Form for 2026 acts as the entry point for aspiring candidates seeking admission to India's prestigious defense academies through the Combined Defence Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Available online, this form demands careful preparation and strict adherence to the guidelines to ensure a seamless application process.

CDS Application Form 2026: Key Dates 

• The CDS 1 2026 application process started on December 10, 2025, through the official UPSC website, upsc.gov.in.

• The application deadline is December 30, 2025.

• Candidates are required to complete a two-part online form:

  • Part I: One-time registration (OTR)

  • Part II: Exam-specific details

• This two-step process helps reduce errors and allows candidates to select preferences such as exam centers.

Eligibility depends on age, usually between 19 and 24 years, nationality as Indian citizens, and educational qualifications, generally a graduation degree for most entries. The application form allows candidates to apply for IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA, with certain relaxations available for NCC certificate holders.

Step-by-Step CDS Application Guide

• Access the Application: Visit upsconline.nic.in and select "One-Time Registration" if you are a new user.

• Part I Registration:

  • Enter personal details including full name, gender, date of birth, and parents' names

  • Mention minority status, Class X roll number, contact details, nationality, community, and educational qualifications

  • Create a password and complete OTP verification

• Part II Form:

  • Choose the exam center (NCC 'C' certificate holders have additional flexibility)

  • Upload photograph and signature in the specified format (photo must be under 10KB in JPEG format)

  • Provide ID proof

  • Select academy preferences

• Fee Payment:

  • Rs 200 for general category candidates

  • Fee is exempted for SC, ST, and female candidates

  • Payment options include debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking

• Preview and Submit:

  • Review all pages carefully

  • Agree to declarations

  • Note the registration ID

  • Limited corrections are allowed after submission

• Prepare Scanned Documents:

  • Photo ID (Aadhaar or PAN)

  • Academic mark sheets

  • Photograph and signature.

Required Documents and Specifications

Scanned documents must follow UPSC specifications to prevent rejection: photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm, white background), signature (black ink on white paper).