UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026: 451 Posts Notification Out, Apply Online

UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026: Notification Out for 451 Posts

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (II) 2026. This recruitment drive aims to fill 451 vacancies across various prestigious academies. Unmarried candidates from all states of India are eligible to apply online through the official website.

Important Dates

• Application Start Date: 20 May 2026
• Application Last Date: 09 June 2026 (Up to 06:00 PM)
• Exam Date: 13 September 2026

Vacancy Details (Total: 451 Posts)

Application Fee

• General / OBC / EWS: Rs. 200/-
• SC / ST / Women: Exempted (No Fee)
• Payment Mode: Online

Age Limit (as on 01 July 2027)

The age limit varies for different courses:

• IMA: 19 to 24 years (Born between 02 July 2003 and 01 July 2008)
• INA: 19 to 24 years (Born between 02 July 2003 and 01 July 2008)
• AFA: 20 to 24 years (Born between 02 July 2003 and 01 July 2007)
• OTA (Men): 19 to 25 years (Born between 02 July 2002 and 01 July 2008)
• OTA (Women): 19 to 25 years (Born between 02 July 2002 and 01 July 2008)

Educational Qualification

• For IMA and OTA: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent from a recognized University in any discipline.
• For Indian Naval Academy (INA): Engineering Degree (B.E./B.Tech) from a recognized institution OR a B.Sc. Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level.
• For Air Force Academy (AFA): University Degree (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering.
• Candidates studying in the final year/semester of their graduation are also eligible to apply, but must submit proof of passing the degree at the time of the SSB Interview and commencement of the course.

Selection Process

The selection process for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 includes:

• Written Examination
• SSB Interview / Intelligence and Personality Test
• Document Verification
• Medical Examination

Exam Pattern

For Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA)

For Officers Training Academy (OTA) (Both Men and Women)

How to Apply for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026

Follow these steps to apply online for the UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026:

1. Visit the official website of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) at upsc.gov.in.
2. Navigate to the Recruitment section and thoroughly review the official notification for UPSC CDS-2 2026.
3. Click on "Apply Online" and complete the registration process.
4. Fill in all the required information accurately in the application form.
5. Upload all necessary documents, a recent passport-sized photograph, and your signature in the prescribed format.
6. Pay the application fee according to your category.
7. Submit the application form after filling in all details and keep a printout for future reference.