UPSC CDS I Admit Card 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the UPSC CDS 1 Admit Card 2026 on 2 April 2026. Candidates who applied for the Combined Defence Services Examination (I) 2026 can now download their e-Admit Card from the official UPSC website. The written exam is set to take place on 12 April 2026 (Sunday) at various centres across India.
This is a crucial step towards joining the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA), with a total of 451 vacancies on offer. Without the printed admit card and a valid photo ID, entry to the examination hall will not be permitted.
UPSC CDS I Admit Card 2026: Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organizing Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) I 2026 |
| Notification No. | 04/2026.CDS-I |
| Courses Offered | IMA, INA, AFA, OTA |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 (Sunday) |
| Admit Card Release | 02 April 2026 (Available) |
| Mode of Exam | Offline |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 / April 2027 |
How to Download UPSC CDS I Admit Card 2026
- Visit the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in or go directly to upsconline.nic.in.
- On the homepage, navigate to the “What’s New” or “e-Admit Cards” section.
- Click on the link titled “e-Admit Card: Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026”.
- Select the option to login using Registration ID or Roll Number, enter your Date of Birth, and fill in the captcha code.
- Submit the details – your admit card will appear on the screen.
- Download the PDF, take a clear printout on A4 white paper, and ensure your photograph is visible clearly.
Always verify all details printed on the admit card, such as your name, roll number, photograph, signature, exam centre, and reporting time. In case of any discrepancy, contact UPSC immediately through the official helpline.
CDS 1 2026 Exam Schedule & Timings (12 April 2026)
The offline (pen-and-paper) examination will be conducted in three shifts:
- English: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- General Knowledge: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
- Elementary Mathematics: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Each paper carries 100 marks (total 300 marks) and consists of objective-type questions.
What to Carry to the Exam Centre? Must Carry:
- Printed copy of UPSC CDS 1 Admit Card 2026
- Original Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, etc.)
- 2-3 recent passport-size photographs (in case required)
- Black or blue ballpoint pen
Strictly Prohibited: Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, electronic gadgets, notes, or any study material. Violation may lead to disqualification.
Important Last-Minute Tips
- Download and print multiple copies of the admit card.
- Visit your exam centre a day before to avoid confusion on the exam day.
- Reach the venue well in advance as per the reporting time mentioned on the admit card.
- Stay updated with any last-minute guidelines on the official UPSC website.
The release of the admit card marks the beginning of the final countdown. This is the moment where months of dedicated preparation meet opportunity.
Important Links
| UPSC CDS I Admit Card 2026 Download Link | Click Here |
| UPSC CDS I Exam Date Notice 2026 | Click Here |
| Fast Update On Join Telegram | Join Now |
| Fast Update On WhatsApp Group | Join Now |
| Official Website | Vacancynotice.com |
