CDS 1 Question Paper 2026 PDF Download (12 April Official Paper)
The CDS 1 2026 exam was successfully conducted on 12 April. Candidates can now download the official question papers for English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. Gain insights into the exam pattern and performance analysis to prepare effectively for the next stage. Read on for complete details.
The Combined Defence Services (CDS) 1 2026 Examination was held on 12th April 2026 across various centers nationwide. Candidates who appeared for the test can now access and download the official CDS 1 2026 Question Paper PDF. This article provides the complete question paper sets, a comprehensive breakdown of the exam pattern, and essential analysis to help you evaluate your performance.
CDS 1 Question Paper 2026 Out
Based on student feedback and expert analysis, we have compiled the question papers for the 12th April 2026 exam. Reviewing these official papers is crucial for understanding the evolving difficulty level, the types of questions asked, and the current exam structure. Qualifying candidates will progress to the final SSB interview stage.
CDS 1 Question Paper 2026: Overview
Before you explore the official PDF downloads, refer to the table below for essential exam updates and key details:
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | CDS 1 Exam 2026 |
| Conducting Body | UPSC |
| Exam Date | 12th April 2026 (Sunday) |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 mark deducted for wrong answer |
| Duration | 2 hours for each paper |
| Papers | English, General Knowledge, Mathematics |
CDS 1 Question Paper 2026: Official PDF Download
Download the official CDS 1 question papers for the examination held on 12th April using the links below:
CDS 1 Exam Pattern 2026
The exam pattern varies based on the specific academy for which you have applied:
For Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy & Air Force Academy
| S. No. | Subject | Maximum Marks | Duration |
| 1 | English | 120 | 2 hours |
| 2 | General Knowledge | 120 | 2 hours |
| 3 | Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 hours |
For Officers’ Training Academy (OTA)
| S. No. | Subject | Maximum Marks | Duration |
| 1 | English | 100 | 2 hours |
| 2 | General Knowledge | 100 | 2 hours |
Importance of CDS Question Papers
Previous year and current session question papers are essential resources for mastering the core concepts of future defence examinations:
- Help understand the latest exam trends
- Provide real exam-level questions for practice
- Assist in analyzing strengths and weaknesses
- Useful for revising important topics
FAQs
The CDS 1 2026 examination was conducted on 12th April 2026 (Sunday).
Yes, the comprehensive question paper PDF for this exam is now available for download.
Yes, there is a negative marking scheme where 1/3 of the marks are deducted for every incorrect answer.
Candidates who meet the qualifying cutoff will be invited for the SSB Interview, which serves as the final stage of the selection process.