The Union Public Service Commission has released the official notification for UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026 on its official website. The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS-II) is conducted for recruitment into the Indian Military Academy, Air Force Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Officers Training Academy.
The online application process has started from 20 May 2026. Eligible candidates can apply online until 09 June 2026. A total of 451 vacancies have been announced under this recruitment drive.
Candidates who want to join the Indian Armed Forces through the CDS-II Examination 2026 should carefully check all eligibility details, age criteria, important dates, and selection processes before applying online.
UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Organization Name | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS-II) 2026 |
| Advertisement Number | 11/2026-CDS-II |
| Total Posts | 451 Posts |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Online Apply Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in/ |
UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 09 June 2026 |
| Last Date For Fee Payment | 09 June 2026 |
| CDS-II Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Before Exam |
| Result Date | Updated Soon |
Candidates are advised to complete the application form before the last date to avoid server issues.
UPSC CDS-II Application Fee 2026
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC | ₹200/- |
| SC / ST | ₹0/- |
Payment Methods
Candidates can pay the application fee using:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Internet Banking
- IMPS
- Mobile Wallet
UPSC CDS-II Age Limit 2026
Candidates applying for UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026 must be born between the following dates:
- Not earlier than 01 July 2003
- Not later than 01 July 2008
Age relaxation will be applicable as per UPSC rules.
UPSC CDS-II Vacancy Details 2026
| Academy Name | Total Posts |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Air Force Academy | 32 |
| Indian Naval Academy | 26 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | 293 |
Total Vacancies: 451 Posts
UPSC CDS-II Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must fulfill the educational qualifications mentioned below.
For IMA & OTA
- Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university.
For Indian Naval Academy
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.
For Air Force Academy
- Bachelor’s degree in any stream.
- Candidates should have studied physics and mathematics at the 10+2 level.
Applicants should read the official notification carefully before submitting the application form.
UPSC CDS-II Selection Process 2026
The selection process for UPSC CDS-II recruitment includes the following:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Candidates who qualify in the written examination will be called for the SSB interview round.
UPSC CDS-II Exam Pattern 2026
The CDS-II written examination includes objective-type questions.
Subjects Included
- English
- General Knowledge
- Elementary Mathematics
OTA candidates will appear only for:
- English
- General Knowledge
How To Apply For UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026
Candidates can apply online by following these simple steps:
- Visit the official UPSC website.
- Open the CDS-II Recruitment 2026 notification page.
- Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) process.
- Fill in personal and educational details carefully.
- Upload required documents and photographs.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Verify all details before final submission.
- Submit the application form.
- Download and print the final application form for future use.
Candidates should apply early to avoid technical issues near the deadline.
Documents Required For UPSC CDS-II Form 2026
Candidates should keep the following documents ready:
- Passport Size Photograph
- Signature
- Aadhaar Card
- Graduation Marksheet
- Category Certificate (If Applicable)
- Valid Mobile Number & Email ID
Why Do Candidates Prefer the CDS Examination?
The CDS examination is one of the best defense career opportunities in India because it offers the following:
- Prestigious Officer Rank
- Government Salary & Benefits
- Job Security
- Leadership Opportunities
- Respect & Social Status
- Adventure and Discipline
Thousands of aspirants apply every year for a chance to serve the nation.
Important Instructions For Candidates
- Fill the form carefully without spelling mistakes.
- Use an active mobile number and email ID.
- Upload clear documents only.
- Read the official notification before applying.
- Submit the form before 09 June 2026.
Incomplete applications may get rejected.
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Notification | Click Here |
| UPSC Official Website | Click Here |
UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026 FAQs
Q1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS-II recruitment 2026?
The last date to apply online is 09 June 2026.
Q2. How many vacancies are available in CDS-II 2026?
A total of 451 posts have been announced.
Q3. What is the CDS-II 2026 exam date?
The examination will be conducted on 13 September 2026.
Q4. What is the application fee for CDS-II Recruitment 2026?
General and OBC candidates need to pay ₹200, while SC/ST candidates are exempted from fee payment.
Q5. What is the selection process for CDS-II recruitment?
Selection includes a written exam, SSB interview, medical test, and final merit list.
Q6. What is the official website of UPSC?
The official website is https://upsc.gov.in/
Conclusion
UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for candidates who want to build a successful career in the Indian Armed Forces. With 451 vacancies available across multiple defense academies, interested candidates should complete the online application process before the deadline.
Candidates are advised to start preparation early and regularly check the official website for updates regarding admit cards and examination details.
