UPSC CDS 1 Exam Date 2026 (Released) - Check Schedule & Details
UPSC CDS 1 Exam Date 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the exam date for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) I recruitment. Candidates who have applied for the CDS I posts can check the complete exam schedule below. The examination is scheduled to be held on 12 April 2026. All eligible candidates are advised to download their admit cards and prepare accordingly.
Latest Update: UPSC has announced the exam date for CDS I positions. The examination will be conducted on 12 April 2026 at various centers across India. Candidates can download the exam date notification from the official website.
Quick Link: Download UPSC CDS 1 Exam Date Notification 2026
Key Highlights - UPSC CDS 1 Exam Date 2026
- Organization: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Post Name: Combined Defence Services I (CDS)
- Exam Date: 12 April 2026
- Exam Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper Based)
- Official Website: upsc.gov.in
UPSC CDS 1 Exam Date 2026 Complete Details
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has published the official exam schedule for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) I recruitment 2026. This notification is crucial for thousands of candidates who are preparing for these defence positions. The examination will test candidates' knowledge in English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics, and only shortlisted candidates will proceed to the next selection stage.
| Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Exam Date 2026 | |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Post Name | Combined Defence Services I (CDS) |
| Total Vacancies | 451 Posts |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Exam Timing | Multiple Shifts (As per Schedule) |
| Exam Mode | Offline |
| Category | Exam Date / Exam Schedule |
| Official Notification | Download PDF |
| Official Website | Visit |
Important Dates for UPSC CDS 1 Exam 2026
Candidates must keep track of all important dates related to the UPSC CDS 1 recruitment process. Below is the complete timeline:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 10 December 2025 |
| Application Last Date | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date Announcement | 07 January 2026 |
| Examination Date | 12 April 2026 |
How to Download UPSC CDS 1 Exam Date 2026 Notification?
Candidates can follow these simple steps to check and download the UPSC CDS 1 exam date notification from the official website:
Step 1: Visit the official website of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) at upsc.gov.in
Step 2: On the homepage, look for the "What's New" or "Notifications" section
Step 3: Find and click on the link titled "UPSC CDS 1 Exam Date 2026"
Step 4: The notification PDF will open in a new window
Step 5: Read all details carefully including exam date, timing, and reporting time
Step 6: Download and save the PDF for future reference
Step 7: Take a printout of the notification for your records
Direct Link: Click here to download UPSC CDS 1 Exam Date Notification PDF
Important Links for UPSC CDS 1 Exam 2026
| Link Description | URL |
|---|---|
| Download Exam Date Notification | Click Here |
| Official Website | Visit Website |
| Download Admit Card (When Available) | Download Soon |
UPSC CDS 1 Exam Pattern 2026
Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. Here's what candidates need to know about the UPSC CDS 1 examination:
- Exam Mode: Offline Pen & Paper Based
- Total Marks: 300 (For IMA/INA/AFA), 200 (For OTA)
- Duration: 6 Hours (For IMA/INA/AFA), 4 Hours (For OTA)
- Negative Marking: Yes - 1/3rd Marks
- Subjects/Sections: English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics
Preparation Tips for UPSC CDS 1 Exam
With the exam date announced, candidates should focus on smart preparation strategies:
1. Create a Study Schedule: Divide your time wisely among all subjects based on your strengths and weaknesses.
2. Focus on Previous Year Papers: Solve at least 5-10 previous year question papers to understand the pattern and difficulty level.
3. Take Mock Tests: Regular mock tests will help you manage time and identify areas needing improvement.
4. Revise Regularly: Make short notes and revise them daily, especially for GK and current affairs.
5. Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with current affairs, especially related to defence and national security.
UPSC Admit Card 2026 - When to Download?
The UPSC will release the admit card for CDS 1 examination approximately 7-10 days before the exam date. Candidates can download their hall tickets from the official website using their registration number and date of birth.
Documents Required on Exam Day:
- Printed copy of Admit Card
- Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhar Card/PAN Card/Driving License/Voter ID)
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Required stationery items (as per instructions)
What After the UPSC CDS 1 Exam?
After successfully appearing in the UPSC CDS 1 examination, candidates should:
1. Result Declaration: The result is typically declared within 30-45 days after the examination. Results will be available on the official website.
2. Answer Key: Preliminary answer keys may be released within 2-3 days after the exam. Candidates can raise objections if any discrepancy is found.
3. Next Stage: Qualified candidates will be called for SSB Interview/Document Verification/Medical Test as per the selection process.
Disclaimer: The information provided above is based on the official notification released by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Candidates are advised to visit the official website upsc.gov.in for the most accurate and updated information.
