Overview
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the answer key for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) (I) 2026. The answer key was made available on 16 April 2026, just four days after the written examination was conducted on 12 April 2026. This timely release allows candidates to evaluate their performance and anticipate their results. The UPSC CDS (I) 2026 examination is a highly competitive recruitment drive conducted to select eligible candidates for commission in the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force.
The Combined Defence Services Examination is one of the most prestigious examinations in India, attracting thousands of aspirants every year who dream of serving the nation in the armed forces. The examination tests candidates on various subjects including English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics, making it a comprehensive assessment of a candidate’s overall aptitude and knowledge. The answer key serves as an important tool for candidates to cross-verify their responses and calculate an estimated score before the official results are announced.
Candidates who appeared in the UPSC CDS (I) 2026 written examination can now download the official answer key PDF from the UPSC website. The availability of the answer key demonstrates UPSC’s commitment to transparency and helping candidates understand their performance in the examination. All candidates are advised to visit the official UPSC portal to access the answer key and use it for self-assessment purposes.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Written Examination Conducted | 12 April 2026 |
| Answer Key Released | 16 April 2026 |
Vacancy Details
The UPSC CDS (I) 2026 examination is conducted to fill various commissioned officer positions in the armed forces. The examination provides an opportunity for eligible candidates to join the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force as commissioned officers. The specific vacancy positions and their details are as follows:
| Post Name | Department | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Commissioned Officers | Indian Army | Officers commissioned through the CDS examination |
| Commissioned Officers | Indian Navy | Officers commissioned through the CDS examination |
| Commissioned Officers | Indian Air Force | Officers commissioned through the CDS examination |
Eligibility Criteria
Age Limit
The age limit for UPSC CDS (I) 2026 varies depending on the service and position applied for. Generally, candidates should be within the specified age range at the time of applying for the examination. The upper age limit for most posts is around 26 years, though specific age relaxations may be applicable for reserved categories and ex-servicemen as per government norms.
Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for the Combined Defence Services Examination must possess a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in India or any university recognized by the Government of India. The degree should be completed before the date of submission of the application form. Engineering graduates and graduates from other disciplines are both eligible to apply, provided they meet the required eligibility criteria.
Nationality and Other Conditions
Candidates must be Indian citizens to apply for the UPSC CDS examination. Candidates should be medically fit according to the medical standards prescribed by the Defence authorities. They must also satisfy other conditions as specified by UPSC in the official notification.
Selection Process
The selection process for UPSC CDS (I) 2026 is conducted in multiple stages to ensure that only the most deserving and capable candidates are selected for commission in the armed forces. The detailed selection process is as follows:
- Written Examination: Candidates must first clear the written examination which consists of papers in English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.
- Answer Key Evaluation: The official answer key is released to help candidates evaluate their performance and understand their probable score.
- Result Announcement: Based on the written examination performance, the merit list is prepared and results are announced.
- Interview and Personality Test: Selected candidates from the written examination are called for interview and personality test round.
- Medical Examination: Candidates who qualify the interview round must undergo medical examination conducted by Defence medical authorities.
- Service Selection Board (SSB) Interview: Shortlisted candidates appear for the SSB interview which is a comprehensive assessment of their suitability for armed forces.
- Final Selection: Based on performance in all stages, final selection is made and candidates are offered commission.
Application Fee
The UPSC CDS examination requires payment of an application fee at the time of form submission. The application fee varies based on the candidate’s category:
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC Candidates | 200 Indian Rupees |
| SC / ST / Female Candidates | Exempted from Fee |
| Persons with Disability (PwD) | Exempted from Fee |
How to Apply
Candidates interested in applying for the UPSC CDS examination should follow the prescribed application procedure. The application process is conducted entirely online through the UPSC official website. Here are the steps to apply:
- Visit the official UPSC website at https://www.upsc.gov.in
- Navigate to the “CDS” section or search for the CDS (I) 2026 notification on the homepage
- Read the complete official notification carefully to understand all eligibility criteria and requirements
- Click on the “Apply Online” link for UPSC CDS (I) 2026
- Create a new user account or login using existing credentials
- Fill in all required personal details, educational qualifications, and service preference accurately
- Upload required documents such as photograph and signature in the specified format and size
- Pay the application fee through online payment gateway using net banking, debit card, or credit card
- Review all information entered before final submission
- Submit the application form and note the application reference number for future correspondence
- Take a printout of the submitted application form for your records