UPSC CDS Eligibility 2026 is an important requirement for every candidate who wants to join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force through the Combined Defence Services exam. Knowing the correct age limit, qualifications, and physical standards helps students avoid form rejection and ensures a smooth application process. Here we  explain every eligibility requirement clearly, including academy-wise age limits, qualifications, physical standards for male and female candidates, and other essential norms to ensure candidates understand all conditions before applying.

UPSC CDS Eligibility Criteria 2026

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam selects officers for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Understanding UPSC CDS Eligibility 2026 is crucial for applicants. These notes summarize the key requirements. Proper eligibility ensures a smooth application process for the exam.

Candidates must fulfill several requirements to appear for the CDS exam. These include nationality, age, education, and physical standards. Each criterion ensures candidates meet the rigorous demands of defence service.

UPSC CDS Nationality Criteria

Applicants must be Indian citizens. Subjects of Bhutan or Nepal are also eligible. Tibetan refugees who arrived before January 01, 1962, can apply. Persons of Indian origin migrating from specific countries to settle permanently in India are also accepted. These candidates may need an Indian Government certificate.

UPSC CDS Age Limit 2026 and Marital Status

Age limits vary by academy. The upsc cds age limit 2026 for Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA) is 18-23 years. Air Force Academy (AFA) requires candidates aged 20-24 years. Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) for men and women spans 19-25 years. Generally, candidates must be unmarried. Married individuals over 25 years can apply for OTA, but specific training rules apply.

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UPSC CDS Qualification

Educational requirements depend on the chosen academy. For IMA and OTA, a graduate degree from a recognized university or equivalent is necessary. The Indian Naval Academy requires an Engineering degree. Air Force Academy candidates need a degree with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level, or a Bachelor of Engineering. Final year students can apply. They must submit proof of passing the degree before joining. There is no explicit percentage required for cds in graduation.

CDS Physical Eligibility

All candidates must be medically and physically fit according to UPSC standards. This includes good health and absence of certain conditions. The cds physical eligibility criteria are strict.

• CDS Physical Eligibility for Male: Minimum height is generally 157 cm. Height relaxations apply for specific forces or regions. Weight must be proportional to height and age.
• CDS Physical Requirements for Female: Minimum height is 152 cm. Relaxations exist for specific groups. Weight must be proportional to height and age.

Medical Standards

Medical fitness forms a critical part of the eligibility. Candidates undergo detailed examinations across various systems.

• Visual Standards: Specific requirements for corrected/uncorrected vision, myopia, hypermetropia, and color perception apply. These vary per academy. Spectacles are often restricted for Air Force flying roles.
• Hearing Standards: Candidates must pass speech and audiometric tests. Certain ear conditions, like perforations or chronic infections, lead to rejection.
• Spinal Conditions: History of spinal injuries, deformities like scoliosis, or specific diseases of the spine are disqualifying.
• Dental Conditions: Significant jaw discrepancies, poor oral hygiene, or more than two loose teeth can lead to rejection.
• Other Conditions: Overweight/underweight status, certain chest conditions (e.g., tuberculosis), nervous system issues (e.g., tremors), and some skin problems (e.g., vitiligo) can also result in disqualification.

Key Rules for UPSC CDS Eligibility 2026

There is no limit on the number of attempts for the CDS exam. Eligibility depends solely on meeting the age and other criteria for each attempt. UPSC may reject applications if eligibility norms are not met. Always refer to official notifications for precise details.

Reasons for Rejection

Common reasons include failing to meet age, educational, or physical qualifications. Submitting false information will also lead to immediate disqualification. Medical unfitness is a frequent cause for rejection.

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CDS Physical Eligibility Standards 2026

Candidates qualifying the CDS written exam must meet the physical and medical standards prescribed by UPSC and the Armed Forces. These standards ensure candidates are fit for training at IMA, INA, AFA, or OTA. Final selection is subject to medical fitness as per Appendix-IV of the official CDS notification 2026.

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