UPSC CDS II 2026 Notification Out: Apply Online for 451 Posts, Exam on 13 September

UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Apply Online for Combined Defence Services Examination

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the CDS II 2026 Notification under Advertisement No. 11/2026-CDS-II for recruitment into prestigious defence academies including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).

This national-level examination offers a golden opportunity for unmarried graduates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers. Eligible candidates can apply online through the UPSC portal from 20 May 2026 to 09 June 2026. The CDS II 2026 written examination is scheduled to be conducted on 13 September 2026.

Official Notification PDF: UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026

UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Overview

Important Dates

Academy Wise Vacancy Details

Educational Qualification

Age Limit

• IMA: Unmarried male candidates born not earlier than 02 July 2003 and not later than 01 July 2008.
• INA: Unmarried male candidates born not earlier than 02 July 2003 and not later than 01 July 2008.
• AFA: Candidates between 20 to 24 years as on 01 July 2027.
• OTA (Men): Unmarried male candidates born not earlier than 02 July 2002 and not later than 01 July 2008.
• OTA (Women): Unmarried women, issueless widows and issueless divorcees born not earlier than 02 July 2002 and not later than 01 July 2008.

Application Fee

Selection Process

• Written Examination
• SSB Interview / Personality Test
• Document Verification
• Medical Examination
• Final Merit List

CDS II 2026 Exam Pattern

For IMA, INA & AFA

For OTA

Physical Standards

• Candidates must be physically fit according to UPSC and Defence Services standards.
• Medical fitness is mandatory for final selection.
• Candidates are advised to check detailed medical standards in the official notification.

Documents Required

• 10th Certificate for Date of Birth Proof
• Graduation Marksheet & Degree Certificate
• Photo Identity Proof
• Recent Passport Size Photograph
• Signature
• Caste Certificate (if applicable)
• NCC Certificate (if applicable)

How to Apply for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026

1. Visit the official UPSC online portal.
2. Complete One Time Registration (OTR).
3. Fill the Common Application Form (CAF).
4. Select CDS II Examination 2026.
5. Upload photograph, live photo and signature.
6. Pay the application fee if applicable.
7. Submit the online application before 09 June 2026.
8. Take a printout of the final application form for future reference.

Important Instructions

• Applications will be accepted only through online mode.
• Candidates must ensure eligibility before applying.
• Use of Aadhaar Card is recommended for seamless verification.
• Incomplete applications are liable to rejection.
• Admit card will be released online through UPSC website.
• Negative marking is applicable in the written examination.

Important Links