UPSC CDS 1 2026 Shift Timings: Schedule, Pattern and Important Instructions
UPSC CDS 1 2026 exam will be held on 12 April 2026 in three shifts: English (9–11 AM), GK (12:30–2:30 PM), and Mathematics (4–6 PM). The exam is conducted by UPSC in offline mode with MCQs. Candidates must follow strict instructions and carry admit card and valid ID.
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2026 (CDS 1) has been officially scheduled by the Union Public Service Commission. The commission has released the complete exam timetable, including shift timings, paper-wise schedule, exam pattern, and important instructions for candidates.
The CDS exam is one of India’s most prestigious defence entrance examinations conducted for recruitment into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).
UPSC CDS 1 2026 Exam Date
As per the official schedule, the CDS 1 2026 exam will be conducted on:
- Exam Date: 12 April 2026 (Sunday)
- Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)
- Conducting Body: Union Public Service Commission
The exam will be held at multiple centres across India.
UPSC CDS 1 2026 Shift Timings
The CDS exam is conducted in three separate shifts on the same day, each for a different subject paper.
Paper-wise Shift Schedule
| Paper | Timing | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | 2 hours |
| General Knowledge | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM | 2 hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | 2 hours |
Candidates must reach the exam centre well before reporting time to avoid last-minute issues.
UPSC CDS 1 2026 Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is important for effective preparation.
For IMA, INA, and AFA Candidates:
| Subject | Marks |
|---|---|
| English | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 100 |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 |
- Total Marks: 300
- Question Type: Objective (MCQs)
- Negative Marking: Applicable
For OTA Candidates:
| Subject | Marks |
|---|---|
| English | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 100 |
- Mathematics is not included for OTA candidates
- Total Marks: 200
Important Exam Day Instructions
Candidates must strictly follow the guidelines issued by the Union Public Service Commission to avoid disqualification.
Documents to Carry:
- Printed CDS 1 2026 admit card
- Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.)
- Passport-size photograph (if required)
Entry Rules:
- Entry closes 30 minutes before exam
- Late entry is not allowed
- Biometric and security checks will be conducted
Items Not Allowed:
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators
- Books, notes, or study material
- Any electronic gadgets
During the Exam:
- Read instructions carefully
- Fill OMR sheet correctly
- Maintain discipline in the exam hall
UPSC CDS Admit Card 2026
The CDS admit card is released a few weeks before the exam on the official website of Union Public Service Commission. Candidates must download it and verify all details such as exam centre, timing, and personal information.
Why CDS 1 2026 Exam Is Important
The CDS exam is a gateway for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers. It offers admission into:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Officers Training Academy (OTA)
A strong performance in CDS opens the path to a respected and disciplined defence career.
Final Advice for Candidates
- Follow the shift timing strictly for each paper
- Reach the exam centre early
- Practice time management between shifts
- Focus on accuracy due to negative marking
- Revise key concepts instead of last-minute cramming
The CDS 1 2026 exam schedule released by the Union Public Service Commission helps candidates plan their preparation more effectively. With clear shift timings and structured exam guidelines, aspirants can now focus on revision and mock practice to improve performance in this highly competitive defence exam.