UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
Name of Application: UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
Apply Start : 20 May 2026
Last Date : 09 June 2026
Total Post: 451
The Union Public Service Commission has officially released the notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) II 2026 on its official portal. This recruitment examination is conducted for candidates who wish to join prestigious defence academies such as the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy. Interested and eligible candidates can submit their online application forms from 20 May 2026 to 09 June 2026.
The CDS examination is one of the most popular defence entrance exams in India and offers an excellent opportunity for graduates to serve the nation as commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Applicants are advised to carefully read the eligibility conditions, important dates, age criteria, and selection procedure before applying online.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Overview
Important Dates
Applicants are advised to regularly visit the official UPSC portal for updates regarding admit cards, examination centres, and result announcements. |
Application Fees
Candidates can make the payment through various online payment methods, including:
The fee payment must be completed before the last date of application submission. |
Eligibility
For Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Officers Training Academy (OTA)Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university or institution. For Indian Naval Academy (INA)Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from a recognized university. For Air Force Academy (AFA)Candidates should have a Bachelor’s Degree in any stream. However, they must have studied Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level. Applicants are strongly advised to read the detailed official notification before applying to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements. |
Age Limits
Applicants should be born not earlier than 01 July 2003 and not later than 01 July 2008. Candidates falling within this age range are eligible to apply for CDS II 2026. Age relaxation provisions will be applicable as per government rules and UPSC regulations wherever applicable. |
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
Important Links
| Apply Link | Click Here |
| Official Notification | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Home Page | Click Here |
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
Total Number of Vacancies
A total of 451 posts have been announced under UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026. The vacancies are distributed among different academies as follows:
Vacancy Distribution
Indian Military Academy (IMA) – 100 Posts
Air Force Academy (AFA) – 32 Posts
Indian Naval Academy (INA) – 26 Posts
Officers Training Academy (OTA) – 293 Posts
Candidates can apply according to their educational qualifications and career interests in the respective defence wings.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
How to Apply for UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026
Candidates interested in applying for the UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 can complete the online application process by following these simple steps:
- Visit the official UPSC website.
- Open the CDS II Recruitment 2026 application link.
- Complete the registration process with basic details.
- Fill out the online application form carefully.
- Upload the required documents, photograph, and signature.
- Pay the application fee through online payment methods.
- Verify all entered details before final submission.
- Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
Candidates should ensure that the application form is submitted before 09 June 2026, as no applications will be accepted after the deadline.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
Selection Process
The selection process for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 consists of multiple stages designed to assess candidates’ knowledge, aptitude, and leadership qualities.
Written Examination
The first stage is a written examination conducted by UPSC. The exam includes subjects such as English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics depending on the academy applied for.
SSB Interview
Candidates who qualify in the written examination will be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) Interview. This stage evaluates personality, intelligence, communication skills, leadership abilities, and suitability for defence services.
Medical Examination
After clearing the SSB interview, shortlisted candidates must undergo a medical fitness examination as per defence standards.
Conclusion
The Combined Defence Services Examination provides a prestigious career opportunity for young graduates who aspire to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. Selected candidates receive professional military training and later serve as officers in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
Apart from job security and attractive salary packages, candidates also receive numerous benefits including allowances, promotions, pension facilities, and the honor of serving the country.
Candidates preparing for the examination should begin their preparation early and focus on subjects according to the latest syllabus and exam pattern.
Before applying, applicants should carefully read the official notification and verify their eligibility criteria, educational qualifications, and age limits to avoid any issues during the recruitment process.
