UPSC CDS II Examination 2026,The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (II), 2026 for recruitment into various defence academies including IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. A total of 451 vacancies have been announced.
Recruitment Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | CDS 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 |
| Official Website | UPSC Official Website |
Vacancy Details
| Academy | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 32 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA-Men) | 245 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA-Women) | 42 |
| Total | 451 |
Educational Qualification
Indian Military Academy (IMA) & OTA
- Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university.
Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Degree in Engineering.
Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Bachelor’s Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level OR Engineering Degree.
Age Limit
| Academy | Age Criteria |
|---|---|
| IMA | 19–24 Years |
| INA | 19–24 Years |
| AFA | 20–24 Years |
| OTA | 19–25 Years |
Only unmarried candidates are eligible for IMA, INA, and AFA.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC | ₹200/- |
| SC/ST/Female | Nil |
Payment can be made through:
- UPI
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Net Banking
Selection Process
The selection process includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
Exam Pattern
IMA, INA & AFA
| Subject | Marks |
|---|---|
| English | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 100 |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 |
OTA
| Subject | Marks |
|---|---|
| English | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 100 |
Important Dates of UPSC CDS II Examination 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Apply Start | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| Correction Window | 10–16 June 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | September 2026 |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
How to Apply Online
- Visit the UPSC online application portal
UPSC Online Apply Portal - Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill application form carefully
- Upload documents and photograph
- Pay application fee
- Submit and print the application form
Important Links
| UPSC Official Website | Click Here |
| UPSC Online Portal | Click Here |
| CDS II 2026 Notification Details | Click Here |
| Whatsapp Channel | Click Here |
| Facbook Page | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many vacancies are available in UPSC CDS II 2026?
A total of 451 vacancies have been announced.
2. What is the last date to apply online?
The last date to apply online is 09 June 2026.
3. What is the exam date of CDS II 2026?
The written examination will be held on 13 September 2026.
4. Can final year students apply for CDS?
Yes, final year students can apply provisionally.
5. What is the selection process for CDS?
Selection includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Test
6. Can female candidates apply for CDS?
Yes, female candidates can apply for OTA (Women) entries.
7. Is Mathematics compulsory in CDS exam?
Mathematics is compulsory for IMA, INA, and AFA. OTA candidates do not have Mathematics paper.
8. Why is CDS considered one of the top defence exams?
Many defence aspirants prefer CDS because it offers:
- Direct officer-level entry
- Prestigious defence career
- Leadership training
- Opportunities in Army, Navy & Air Force
