UPSC CDS 2 2026 Notification Released: Join India's Elite Defence Services!
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination II for 2026, presenting a golden opportunity for aspiring officers to join the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA). With 451 vacancies up for grabs, this is your chance to serve the nation with pride and distinction.
Key Highlights of UPSC CDS 2 2026
The UPSC CDS II 2026 notification is your comprehensive guide to embarking on a career in the defence forces. This examination is the gateway to becoming a commissioned officer, shaping the future of India's security. Read on to discover the crucial details regarding eligibility, application process, important dates, and the selection stages.
UPSC CDS 2 2026 Vacancy Details
A total of 451 vacancies have been announced for various prestigious academies. The breakdown is as follows:
| S. No. | Course | Academy | Commencement | Total Vacancies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 163rd (DE) Course | Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun | July 2027 | 100 |
| 2 | Executive Branch (General Service) / Hydro | Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala | July 2027 | 26 |
| 3 | 222 F(P) Course (Pre-Flying Training) | Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad | July 2027 | 32 |
| 4 | 126th SSC (Men) (NT) (UPSC) Course | Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai | October 2027 | 275 |
| 5 | 126th SSC Women (NT) (UPSC) Course | Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai | October 2027 | 18 |
| Total | 451 |
Please note that these vacancies are tentative and subject to change. NCC 'C' Certificate holders have reserved vacancies in IMA, INA, and AFA. Women candidates are eligible exclusively for the OTA SSC Women (NT) course.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CDS 2 2026
Before you apply, ensure you meet the following eligibility conditions:
- Nationality: Citizen of India, subject of Nepal, or a person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries, with valid eligibility certificates where applicable.
- Educational Qualification: A Bachelor's degree from a recognized university is generally required. Specific requirements apply for INA (Engineering degree or B.Sc. with Physics) and AFA (Degree with Physics & Maths at 10+2 or Engineering degree). Final year students can apply but must submit proof of passing by specified dates.
- Age Limit & Marital Status: Age limits vary by academy. Generally, candidates should be unmarried. Specific age ranges and marital status conditions apply to IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA (Men & Women). Marriage during training is strictly prohibited.
- Physical Standards: Candidates must meet stringent physical and medical fitness standards as per the 'Joint Order Manual of Medical Standards for Entry into Armed Forces'. Permanent body tattoos are restricted.
Important Dates for UPSC CDS 2 2026
Mark these dates in your calendar:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Application | 09 June 2026 (up to 6:00 PM) |
| Date of Written Examination | 13 September 2026 |
| Tentative Written Result | October 2026 |
How to Apply for UPSC CDS 2 2026
The application process is entirely online. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official UPSC online application portal: Apply here.
- Register yourself and fill in the application form with accurate details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and other required documents.
- Pay the application fee online if applicable.
- Submit the application form and take a printout for future reference.
Application Fee: General/OBC/EWS Male candidates need to pay Rs. 200/-. Female candidates and SC/ST candidates are exempted from paying the fee.
Selection Process
The selection process for UPSC CDS II 2026 is rigorous and multi-staged:
- Written Examination: An objective-type test comprising English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.
- SSB Interview: Candidates who clear the written exam undergo an Intelligence and Personality Test conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB).
- Medical Examination: Successful candidates from the SSB interview must clear a thorough medical examination.
The final selection is based on merit, subject to medical fitness and the number of available vacancies.
Syllabus and Exam Pattern
The written exam tests your knowledge at the Graduate and Matriculation levels. The syllabus covers English, General Knowledge (including current events, science, history, and geography), and Elementary Mathematics (arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry, geometry, mensuration, and statistics). Negative marking is applicable for incorrect answers.
Exam Centres
The examination will be conducted across 84 cities nationwide. It's advisable to apply early to secure your preferred examination centre, as seats are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Conclusion
The UPSC CDS 2 2026 examination is a challenging yet rewarding path for those aspiring to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. Prepare diligently, meet the eligibility criteria, and follow the application process carefully. Your journey to becoming a defence officer starts here!
Important Links
| Important Links | Action |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Notification PDF | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |