The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the e-Admit Card for the CDS-I 2026 examination (Advt. No. 04/2026). The written exam is scheduled for 12 April 2026 for 451 vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. Candidates who applied can now download their admit card from the official UPSC website.

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The exam has 3 papers for IMA/INA/AFA candidates but only 2 papers for OTA candidates (no Mathematics paper). Make sure you know which papers apply to you.

Key Dates

Event Date
Admit Card Available 02 April 2026
Exam Date 12 April 2026
Paper 1 — English 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Paper 2 — General Knowledge 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Paper 3 — Mathematics (IMA/INA/AFA only) 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Expected Result To be announced

How to Download the Admit Card

  1. Visit the UPSC online portal at upsconline.nic.in.
  2. Log in using your Registration ID and Date of Birth.
  3. Click on the CDS-I 2026 Admit Card download link.
  4. Download and take 2–3 printouts.
  5. Verify all details — name, photograph, roll number, and exam centre.
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Tip: If you notice any discrepancy in your admit card (wrong name, photo, or centre), contact UPSC immediately through the details mentioned on the admit card.

Exam Pattern (Quick Overview)

Paper Subject Questions Marks Duration
Paper 1 English 120 100 2 Hours
Paper 2 General Knowledge 120 100 2 Hours
Paper 3 Elementary Mathematics 100 100 2 Hours
Total (IMA/INA/AFA) 340 300 6 Hours
Total (OTA) 240 200 4 Hours
  • Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper / OMR-based)
  • Question Type: Objective (Multiple Choice)
  • Negative Marking: 1/3rd of marks for each wrong answer
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Warning: Negative marking applies to all papers. Avoid guessing — one wrong answer costs you 1/3rd of the marks for that question.

Exam Day Guidelines

What to carry:

  • Printed admit card
  • Valid photo ID (Aadhaar / Voter ID / Passport / Driving License)
  • Blue or black ballpoint pen
  • Transparent water bottle

What NOT to carry:

  • Mobile phones or electronic devices
  • Calculators or smart watches
  • Books, notes, or any study material
  • Bags, wallets, or pouches
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Important: Check your admit card for the exact reporting time and centre address. Reach the venue well in advance — late entry may not be permitted.

What Happens After the Exam?

Candidates who clear the written exam will be shortlisted for the SSB Interview, which tests intelligence and personality over 5 days. This is followed by a Medical Examination. The final merit list is based on combined written exam and SSB scores.

Description Link
Download Admit Card upsconline.nic.in
Official UPSC Website upsc.gov.in

The exam is just around the corner — stay focused, manage your time across all papers, and give it your best.