UPSC CDS II 2026 Notification Released for IMA, INA, AFA & OTA – Check Eligibility, Exam Date, Selection Process & Apply Online Details
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the detailed notification for the CDS (II) 2026 examination. Aspiring candidates who wish to join the Indian Armed Forces as Commissioned Officers can now apply online for the prestigious defense academies.
# Applicants are advised to check the age limits, educational qualifications, and physical standards carefully before filling the online application form.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026: The Union Public Service Commission has officially released the notification for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 for admission into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Candidates who dream of becoming officers in the Indian Armed Forces can now apply online for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) II 2026 through the official UPSC portal.
The Combined Defence Services Examination is one of the most prestigious defence examinations in India conducted by UPSC twice every year. Through this recruitment process, eligible graduates can join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as commissioned officers after completing training at respective defence academies.
According to the official notification, the online application process started on 20 May 2026 and candidates can submit their forms till 09 June 2026. The written examination will be conducted on 13 September 2026 across various examination centres in India.
Candidates preparing for defence jobs should carefully check eligibility criteria, educational qualification, age limit, selection process, exam pattern, and important instructions before submitting the application form.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination II 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 Posts |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Apply Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Job Location | All India |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
| Category | Defence Jobs |
UPSC CDS II Notification 2026 Released
The Union Public Service Commission conducts the CDS examination to recruit officers for:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Officers Training Academy (OTA)
Lakhs of defence aspirants apply for CDS every year because it offers a direct pathway to become commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
The recruitment process includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Document Verification
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Apply Online Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | August 2026 |
| CDS II Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Result Date | Notify Later |
Candidates are advised to complete the online application process well before the last date.
| 📊 UPSC CDS II Vacancy 2026 Details | ||||||
* The academy-wise vacancy distribution will be available in the detailed official notification. | ||||||
| 🎓 UPSC CDS II Eligibility Criteria 2026 | ||||||
Candidates must fulfill the required educational qualification and age criteria prescribed by UPSC.
⚔️ For Indian Military Academy (IMA)
Graduation Degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
⚓ For Indian Naval Academy (INA)
Engineering Degree (B.E/B.Tech) from a recognized university/institution.
✈️ For Air Force Academy (AFA)
Degree of a recognized University (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) OR Bachelor of Engineering.
🎓 For Officers Training Academy (OTA)
Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university. 👉 Final Year Students: Candidates appearing in the final year/semester degree course can also apply. | ||||||
| 🎂 UPSC CDS II Age Limit 2026 | ||||||
The age limit varies according to the academy. Generally:
Note: Candidates should check the detailed notification for the exact birth date range (cutoff) for each academy. | ||||||
| 💰 Application Fee Details | ||||||
Payment Mode: Online via Visa/Master/Rupay Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. |
⚔️ UPSC CDS II Selection Process 2026
The recruitment of Commissioned Officers through CDS II 2026 involves a rigorous multi-stage evaluation:
- Intelligence and Personality Test
- Psychological Aptitude Test
- Group Tasks (GTO)
- Personal Interview with the Board
📖 UPSC CDS II Exam Pattern 2026
The exam pattern differs depending on the academy for which the candidate has applied.
For Indian Military, Naval & Air Force Academy (IMA, INA & AFA)
| Subject | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|
| English | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 100 |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 |
| Total Marks | 300 |
For Officers Training Academy (OTA)
| Subject | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|
| English | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 100 |
| Total Marks | 200 |
📥 How to Apply for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
Eligible candidates can apply online through the official UPSC portal. Please ensure you have a stable internet connection before starting.
📂 Important Documents Required
Keep the following documents scanned and ready before filling the form:
- Passport Size Photograph
- Digital Signature
- Aadhaar Card / Photo ID
- 10th Class Certificate
- 12th Class Marksheet
- Graduation Certificate
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- EWS Certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile Certificate
- PwD Certificate (if applicable)
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Important Links
| UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Notification | Notification |
| UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Apply Online | Apply Online |
| UPSC Official Website | UPSC |
🌟 Why CDS Examination is Important?
The Combined Defence Services Examination is the gateway to a life of honor. It offers:
- Gazetted Officer rank in the Indian Armed Forces
- One of the most prestigious Central Government careers
- Highly attractive salary package and world-class allowances
- Unmatched adventure, leadership roles, and lifestyle
- A direct opportunity for National Service
💼 Salary & Benefits After Selection
Selected candidates undergo training and are commissioned as Lieutenants. Benefits include:
- Attractive Pay Scale (Level 10) + Military Service Pay (MSP)
- Free furnished accommodation and medical facilities for family
- Life-long pension benefits and Canteen (CSD) facilities
- High-value travel allowances and annual leave concessions
- Rapid promotion opportunities based on performance
📚 UPSC CDS II Preparation Tips
- ❌ Incorrect Information: Any mismatch in name or DOB with certificates leads to rejection.
- ❌ Blurred Uploads: Ensure your photograph and signature are clear and meet UPSC size specs.
- ❌ Late Application: UPSC servers often slow down on the last day; apply at least 1 week early.
- ❌ Incomplete Form: Ensure both Part-I and Part-II of the registration are completed.
🚀 Career Opportunities After CDS
Success in CDS opens doors to become a Commissioned Officer in:
