The Union Public Service Commission announced on 19 October 2026 that 8,956 candidates have qualified for interviews by the Service Selection Board of the Ministry of Defence. These candidates are eligible for admission to the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy. Qualified candidates must submit original certificates for age and education to the respective Ministry of Defence offices by specific deadlines in 2027 to avoid cancellation of their candidature. Those who chose the Army as their first preference must also register on the recruiting directorate website.
Key points
- 8,956 candidates qualified for interviews
- IMA & INA certificate deadline: 1 July 2027
- AFA certificate deadline: 13 May 2027
- SSC course certificate deadline: 1 October 2027
- Army first-choice candidates must register at www.joinindianarmy.nic.in
When it applies
- Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026
- submission of original certificates for IMA & INA
- submission of original certificates for AFA
- submission of original certificates for SSC course
- commencement of IMA, INA, and AFA courses
- commencement of OTA courses
Who it affects
- qualified candidates