CDS Physical Standards 2026: Height, Weight & Eyesight Rules for All Streams

INTRODUCTION

The Combined Defense Services (CDS) Examination 2026 is the gateway for graduates to enter the most prestigious officer-training streams in India. Whether you are aiming for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), the Indian Naval Academy (INA), the Air Force Academy (AFA), or the Officers' Training Academy (OTA), clearing the written exam and the SSB interview is only two-thirds of the journey. The final hurdle—and often the most stringent—is meeting the CDS Physical Standards 2026.

In 2026, the medical boards have maintained their "zero-compromise" policy on physical fitness to ensure that officers can lead in high-altitude terrains, maritime environments, and supersonic cockpits. This guide breaks down every technical requirement you need to know to ensure your medical fitness aligns with your academic goals.

1. Academy-Wise Minimum Height Requirements 2026

The height requirements for CDS 2026 vary significantly depending on the stream (Army, Navy, or Air Force) you choose. These are measured without shoes and are strictly enforced.

Academy Stream	Minimum Height (Male)	Minimum Height (Female)
IMA (Army)	157.5 cm	N/A
OTA (Army)	157.5 cm	152 cm
INA (Navy)	157.0 cm	152 cm
AFA (Air Force)	162.5 cm	162.5 cm

Height Relaxations for 2026

UPSC provides specific relaxations for candidates from certain geographical regions or communities:

• Gorkhas and North-Eastern Hills: 5 cm relaxation (Minimum 152.5 cm for IMA/OTA).

• Lakshadweep Candidates: 2 cm relaxation (Minimum 155.5 cm for IMA/OTA).

• AFA Flying Branch: No height relaxation is generally permitted for the flying branch due to cockpit ergonomics.

Confused about which stream fits your profile? Check out our detailed guide on CDS 2026 Educational Qualifications and Stream Selection to match your degree with the right academy.

2. CDS 2026 Weight Standards: The Ideal BMI Chart

The Indian Armed Forces use a proportionate weight-to-height ratio. In 2026, the medical boards allow a +/- 10% variation from the mean weight but being significantly overweight or underweight can lead to temporary unfitness.

Indicative Weight Chart (Male - Army/Navy)

Height (cm)	18 Years (kg)	20 Years (kg)	22 Years (kg)	25 Years (kg)
160	48	50	51	52
165	52	53	55	56
170	55	57	58	59
175	59	61	62	62
180	63	64	65	66

Indicative Weight Chart (Female - OTA)

Height (cm)	20 Years (kg)	25 Years (kg)
148	39	41
152	41	43
155	43	45
160	45	47

3. Visual Standards for CDS 2026

Eyesight is the most common reason for medical disqualification in the CDS entry. The standards for the Air Force are the most rigid, requiring near-perfect unaided vision for the flying branch.

Indian Air Force (AFA)

• Uncorrected Vision: 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other.

• Hypermetropia: +2.0 D Sph (Max).

• Manifest Myopia: Nil.

• LASIK/PRK: Permitted only if the surgery was done after age 20 and at least 12 months before the medical date, with specific corneal thickness requirements.

Indian Navy (INA)

• Uncorrected Vision: 6/12.

• Corrected Vision: 6/6.

• Myopia Limit: -1.5 D.

• Hypermetropia Limit: +1.5 D.

Indian Army (IMA/OTA)

• Distance Vision (Corrected): 6/6 in better eye, 6/9 in worse eye.

• Myopia: -2.5 D (including astigmatism).

• Hypermetropia: +3.5 D (including astigmatism).

4. General Medical Grounds for Disqualification

Beyond height and weight, the medical board conducts a comprehensive "Head-to-Toe" examination.

Permanent Rejections

These conditions usually result in an immediate permanent "Unfit" status:

1. Skeletal Deformities: Severe flat foot, knock-knees, or bow legs.

2. Spinal Issues: Scoliosis, Kyphosis, or any history of spinal surgery.

3. Chronic Diseases: Epilepsy, Asthma, or serious heart murmurs.

4. Vision Issues: Color blindness (CP-IV or below) is a total disqualifier for most combat roles.

Temporary Rejections (Appealable)

Candidates are given 42 days to rectify these minor issues:

• Wax in Ears: Always get your ears cleaned by a professional before the medical.

• Overweight/Underweight: If you are within 5-7 kg of the limit, you may be given time to lose/gain weight.

• Phimosis or Varicocele: Minor surgical corrections are usually accepted.

• DNS (Deviated Nasal Septum): If it obstructs breathing, surgery is required.

 Want to ensure you're ready for the 2026 cycle? Download our Physical Fitness Tracker for CDS 2026 to monitor your BMI and stamina goals daily.

5. CDS Physical Standards 2026: The Chest & Stamina Rules

For male candidates, a well-developed chest is mandatory.

• Minimum Unexpanded Chest: 81 cm.

• Minimum Expansion: 5 cm.

While the medical exam focuses on physiology, the SSB and subsequent training require high stamina. It is recommended that by 2026, you should be able to:

• Run 2.4 km in 15 minutes.

• Complete 20 Push-ups and 20 Sit-ups.

• Perform 8 Chin-ups.

6. FAQs on CDS Physical Standards 2026

Q1. What is the minimum height required for a male candidate in CDS Physical Standards 2026? 

For the Indian Army (IMA/OTA), the minimum height is 157.5 cm. For the Navy, it is 157 cm, and for the Air Force Academy, it is 162.5 cm. Relaxations apply for Gorkhas and North-Eastern candidates.

Q2. Is LASIK surgery allowed under the CDS Physical Standards 2026 rules? 

Yes, LASIK is permitted for the Army and Air Force, provided the candidate is over 20 years old, the surgery was performed at least 12 months prior, and the residual refraction is within the prescribed limits. It is generally not allowed for the Navy.

Q3. Can I apply if I have a tattoo according to the CDS Physical Standards 2026? 

Permanent body tattoos are only permitted on the inner face of the forearm (from inside of elbow to the wrist) and on the reverse side of the palm/back (dorsal) side of the hand. Offensive or large tattoos are grounds for rejection.

Q4. What happens if I am declared "Temporarily Unfit" in the CDS Physical Standards 2026? 

If declared temporarily unfit, you are usually given 42 days to rectify the issue (such as weight or minor ailments) and appear before a Review Medical Board (RMB) at a designated military hospital.

Q5. Are flat feet a permanent rejection in CDS Physical Standards 2026? 

Yes, a severe flat foot (Pes Planus) that interferes with walking or running is a ground for permanent rejection, as it can lead to chronic pain and injuries during the rigorous training at the academies.

Conclusion

Meeting the CDS Physical Standards 2026 is as critical as scoring 150+ in the written paper. Many brilliant candidates are screened out because of lack of awareness regarding their BMI or minor ailments like ear wax. Start your physical preparation at least 6 months in advance—focus on a balanced diet, posture correction, and steady cardio.

For more simplified guidance on entrance exams, course details, and college admissions, visit collegesimplified.in. We help you navigate the journey from being an aspirant to becoming an officer with clarity and confidence.