Are you dreaming of a prestigious career in the Indian Armed Forces? Do you aspire to serve the nation while enjoying a high-ranking government position with a handsome salary? The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has recently announced a significant recruitment drive for 2026, inviting eligible candidates for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) and National Defence Academy (NDA) examinations.
This is a golden opportunity for motivated individuals across India, including Karnataka, to join the frontline of national security. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the recruitment details, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Recruitment Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Names | Combined Defence Services (CDS) & NDA |
| Total Vacancies | 845 Posts |
| Job Location | Across India |
| Salary Scale | ₹56,100 to ₹2,25,000 per month |
Eligibility Criteria
1. Educational Qualification
- For NDA: 10th and 12th standard (Physics and Maths required for Air Force/Navy wings).
- For CDS: A Graduation degree in any discipline, or a B.E./B.Tech degree for specialized technical wings.
2. Age Limit (As of August 1, 2025)
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 24 Years
Application Fee Structure
- Combined Defence Services (CDS):
- General/OBC/Others: ₹200
- SC/ST/Female: Exempted (No Fee)
- NDA & Naval Academy Exam:
- General/OBC/Others: ₹100
- SC/ST/Female: Exempted (No Fee)
- Payment Mode: All fees must be paid via online methods (Net Banking, Debit/Credit Cards, or UPI).
Selection Process:
- Preliminary/Written Examination: Testing General Knowledge, Mathematics, and English.
- SSB Interview: A comprehensive 5-day personality and intelligence test conducted by the Services Selection Board.
- Medical Examination: Strict health checks to ensure candidates meet the physical standards of the Armed Forces.
- Final Merit List: Based on the marks obtained in the written exam and the interview.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official UPSC website.
- Read the Notification: Carefully go through the 2026 CDS/NDA official notification to verify your eligibility for specific wings.
- Prepare Documents: Keep your Email ID, Mobile Number, Aadhaar Card, Educational Certificates, Resume, and Scanned Photo/Signature ready.
- Fill the Application: Use the “Online Application” link. Enter your personal and academic details accurately.
- Fee Payment: Pay the applicable fee based on your category through the online portal.
- Submission: Review all entries and click ‘Submit.’
- Printout: Save a PDF copy and take a printout of the submitted application for future reference during the admit card download.
Important Dates to Remember:
- Starting Date for Online Application: May 20, 2026
- Last Date to Apply: June 09, 2026
Important Links :
| Resource | Direct Link |
| Join WhatsApp Group | Click Here |
| Join Telegram Group | Click Here |
| CDS Official Notification | Downloald PDF |
| NDA/NA Official Notification | Download PDF |
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |