UPSC CDS Age Limit 2026 — Check Your Eligibility by Category
The UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) (2026) sets the age limit at 19–24 years for General category candidates, calculated as on 1 January 2026. Reserved categories receive relaxation: OBC candidates get 27 years, SC/ST candidates 29 years upper limit.
Category-Wise Age Limits
| Category | Min Age | Max Age | Relaxation |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 19 years | 24 years | - |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 19 years | 27 years | +3 yrs |
| SC / ST | 19 years | 29 years | +5 yrs |
💡 Enter your DOB to check if YOU are eligible for UPSC CDS 2026
Check Your Eligibility →Detailed Age Limit Information
📋 Age Criteria
- Minimum Age: 19 years
- Maximum Age (General): 24 years
- Age Calculation Date: 1 January 2026
- Conducting Body: Union Public Service Commission
🎯 Attempts Limit
- General: No limit
- OBC: No limit
- SC/ST: Unlimited
Age Relaxation Rules
Standard Relaxations
- OBC (NCL): 3 years relaxation
- SC/ST: 5 years relaxation
- PwD: 10 years relaxation
Important Notes
- • Relaxations are applied on the upper age limit only
- • Minimum age remains same for all categories
- • Cumulative relaxations apply for eligible candidates
- • Always verify with official notification
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the age limit for UPSC CDS 2026?
A: The UPSC CDS 2026 age limit is 19-24 years for General category candidates.
Q: What is the UPSC CDS age limit for OBC candidates?
A: OBC candidates get 3 years relaxation with a maximum age limit of 27 years for UPSC CDS 2026.
Q: What is the UPSC CDS age limit for SC/ST candidates?
A: SC/ST candidates get 5 years relaxation with a maximum age limit of 29 years for UPSC CDS 2026.
Q: How many attempts are allowed in UPSC CDS?
A: There is no attempt limit for UPSC CDS examination.
Q: On which date is age calculated for UPSC CDS?
A: Age is calculated as on 1st January of the examination year (01-01-2026 for CDS 2026).
Q: Can I apply for UPSC CDS if I am 24 years old?
A: Yes, if you are exactly 24 years old as on 1st January 2026, you are eligible for UPSC CDS under General category.
Q: What is the age relaxation for PwD in UPSC CDS?
A: There is no PwD reservation in UPSC CDS as physical fitness is mandatory.
Q: What is the minimum age for UPSC CDS?
A: The minimum age for UPSC CDS is 19 years as on 1st January 2026.
Ready to Check Your Eligibility?
Use our Age Calculator for a personalised eligibility verdict and see if you qualify for UPSC CDS 2026
Try the Age Calculator →Age limits are based on the 2026 official notification released by Union Public Service Commission. Last verified: 2026-02-04. Always check the official notification at Union Public Service Commission website