UPSC Combined Defence Services CDS II Recruitment 2026: Notification Out, Apply Online, Eligibility, Exam Date
The Union Public Service Commission has officially released the notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) II 2026. This prestigious national-level defence recruitment exam offers candidates an opportunity to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force through top military academies including IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA.
Candidates who dream of serving the nation as commissioned officers can now apply online for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 through the official UPSC portal. The application process has started from 20 May 2026, and eligible candidates can submit their forms before the last date.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) II 2026 |
| Article Type | Defence Jobs |
| Notification Release Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| Correction Window | 10 June to 16 June 2026 |
| CDS II Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Process | Written Exam, SSB Interview, Medical Test |
| Official Website | UPSC Official Website |
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Important Dates
Candidates should carefully note all important events related to the CDS II 2026 examination.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 20 May 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| Form Correction Window | 10–16 June 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | September 2026 |
| CDS II 2026 Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
The exam schedule and application dates are based on the official UPSC calendar and recruitment updates.
UPSC CDS II 2026 Vacancy Details
The official detailed vacancy distribution for CDS II 2026 is expected to include seats for:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA)
- Indian Naval Academy (INA)
- Air Force Academy (AFA)
- Officers Training Academy (OTA Men)
- Officers Training Academy (OTA Women)
UPSC will publish the exact category-wise and academy-wise vacancy details in the official notification PDF.
UPSC CDS II 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must fulfill the educational qualification and age requirements before applying.
Educational Qualification
| Academy | Qualification |
|---|---|
| IMA & OTA | Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university |
| INA | Engineering Degree |
| AFA | Graduation with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level or Engineering Degree |
Final-year students can also apply, provided they produce proof of passing before the final selection stage.
UPSC CDS II 2026 Age Limit
| Academy | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| IMA | 19 to 24 Years |
| INA | 19 to 22 Years |
| AFA | 19 to 23 Years |
| OTA | 19 to 25 Years |
Only unmarried male candidates are eligible for IMA, INA, and AFA. Both male and female unmarried candidates can apply for OTA.
UPSC CDS II 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC | ₹200 |
| SC / ST / Female | No Fee |
The application fee can be paid through online mode.
UPSC CDS II 2026 Selection Process
The selection process for CDS II Recruitment 2026 includes the following stages:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Candidates clearing all stages will receive final selection based on merit.
UPSC CDS II 2026 Exam Pattern
For IMA, INA & AFA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
For OTA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
UPSC CDS II 2026 Salary
Selected candidates in the Indian Armed Forces receive attractive salary packages along with military allowances, free medical facilities, accommodation, pension benefits, and career growth opportunities.
The starting salary of commissioned officers generally begins from Level 10 Pay Matrix with pay around ₹56,100 per month plus allowances.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
Candidates can follow these simple steps to apply online:
- Visit the official UPSC website
- Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
- Open the CDS II 2026 application form
- Fill in personal and educational details
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee
- Submit the final form
- Take a printout for future reference
Required Documents
Applicants should keep the following documents ready:
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Graduation certificate/mark sheet
- ID proof
- Category certificate (if applicable)
Why UPSC CDS is One of India’s Most Popular Defence Exams
Every year lakhs of aspirants apply for the CDS examination to join the Indian Armed Forces as officers. The exam offers:
- Permanent Commission opportunities
- Prestigious military training
- High social respect
- Excellent salary and allowances
- Adventure-filled career
- Leadership opportunities
Candidates preparing seriously for defence careers often consider CDS as one of the best gateways after graduation.
Important Links
Conclusion
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for graduates aiming to build a prestigious career in the Indian Armed Forces. Interested candidates should complete their applications before the deadline and start preparing strategically for the written examination and SSB interview.
With strong competition expected this year, early preparation and consistent practice can significantly improve selection chances.
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