UPSC CDS 1 Application Form 2024, Registration Link, Eligibility Criteria

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially begun accepting online applications for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) 1 Examination 2024. With 457 vacancies across various prestigious academies like the Indian Military Academy (IMA) and the Indian Naval Academy (INA), this is a golden opportunity for eligible aspirants. Interested candidates can submit their applications between December 11, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Additionally, a correction window will be available from January 1 to January 7, 2025, for those who wish to make modifications to their applications by paying a small fee.

Important Dates for UPSC CDS 1 2024

Here is a snapshot of the crucial dates for UPSC CDS 1 Examination 2024:

Event	Date
Release of Official Notification	December 11, 2024
Start of Online Registration	December 11, 2024
Last Date for Application Submission	December 31, 2024
Application Correction Window	January 1 – January 7, 2025

How to Apply for UPSC CDS 1 2024?

Eligible candidates can apply online via the official UPSC website. The process involves two key steps: One-Time Registration (OTR) and form submission. Here’s how:

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

Visit the Official Website: Go to the UPSC OTR portal.
Register for OTR:
- Click on the “New Registration” button.
- Enter your personal details such as name, email, mobile number, gender, and category.
- Upload your photograph and signature.
- Submit the form to generate your registration number and password.
Complete the Application Form:
- Log in using your registration details.
- Fill out the application form with accurate details.
- Upload the necessary documents.
Pay the Application Fee:
- Make the payment using credit/debit cards, UPI, or net banking.
Submit the Application:
- Verify the details and submit the form. Save a copy of the application for future reference.

UPSC CDS 1 Eligibility Criteria 2024

Eligibility varies depending on the academy applied for. Below are the academy-specific requirements:

Age Criteria

Indian Military Academy (IMA): Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2007.
Indian Naval Academy (INA): Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2002, and January 1, 2007.
Air Force Academy (AFA): Age range 20 to 24 years as of January 1, 2026 (with relaxations for valid Commercial Pilot License holders up to 26 years).
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) for Men: Unmarried male candidates born between January 2, 2001, and January 1, 2007.
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) for Women: Unmarried women, issueless widows, and divorcees born between January 2, 2001, and January 1, 2007.

Educational Qualification

IMA and OTA: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
INA: Engineering degree from a recognized institution.
AFA: Bachelor’s degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or a Bachelor of Engineering.

UPSC CDS 1 Vacancies 2024

The breakdown of vacancies is as follows:

Academy	Vacancies
Indian Military Academy (IMA)	100
Indian Naval Academy (INA)	32
Air Force Academy (AFA)	32
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – Men	275
Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – Women	18
Total	457

Application Fee

The category-wise application fee structure is as follows:

Category	Fee
Female/SC/ST	Exempted
General/Others	Rs. 200/-

Candidates can pay the fee using SBI branches (in cash), credit/debit cards, UPI, or net banking.

Priya Joshi

Priya Joshi does many hats- writer, graphic designer, editor and SEO expert. She has over 6 years of experience in crafting creative yet impactful content for various domains. Writing aside, she finds solace in the world of books, exploring nature’s beauty, binge-watching dramas and engaging in DIY projects.