Published : June 09, 2026
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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination-II, 2026 Notification 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). A total of 451 vacancies have been announced for candidates aspiring to serve in the Indian Armed Forces.
Candidates can submit their online applications from 20 May 2026 to 9 June 2026, while the written examination is scheduled to be conducted on 13 September 2026.
UPSC CDS 2 2026 Important Dates
Event - Date
Notification Release Date 20 May 2026
Online Application Start Date 20 May 2026
Last Date to Apply 09 June 2026
Exam Date 13 September 2026
CDS 2 2026 Vacancy Details
UPSC has announced 451 vacancies across various defence academies.
Academy Vacancies
Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun 100
Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala 26
Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad 32
Officers Training Academy (OTA) Men 275
Officers Training Academy (OTA) Women 18
Total 451
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
For IMA & OTA
Graduation Degree from a recognized University.
For Indian Naval Academy
Engineering Degree OR
B.Sc. with Physics as a subject and Mathematics at 10+2 level.
For Air Force Academy
Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level OR
Bachelor of Engineering.
Final-year degree students are also eligible to apply.
Age Limit
Indian Military Academy (IMA)
19 to 24 years
Born between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2008
Indian Naval Academy (INA)
19 to 24 years
Born between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2008
Air Force Academy (AFA)
20 to 24 years
Born between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2007
Officers Training Academy (OTA)
19 to 25 years
Born between 01 July 2002 and 01 July 2008
Application Fee
General/OBC/EWS Candidates: ₹200
SC/ST Candidates: No Fee
Female Candidates: No Fee
Selection Process
The CDS 2 2026 selection process consists of:
1. Written Examination
2. SSB Interview
3. Medical Examination
4. Final Merit List
Exam Centres in Andhra Pradesh & Telangana
Candidates can choose examination centres including:
Ananthapuramu
Tirupati
Vijayawada
Visakhapatnam
Hyderabad
Hanumakonda (Warangal)
Important Instructions for Candidates
Applications must be submitted online only.
Candidates must upload photograph, live photo, and signatures during registration.
Aadhaar Card is recommended for identity verification.
No correction facility will be available after application submission.
Mobile phones and electronic devices are strictly prohibited in the examination hall.
Face authentication will be conducted at examination centres.
Why CDS is a Golden Opportunity?
The Combined Defence Services Examination is one of India's most prestigious recruitment examinations. Successful candidates receive world-class military training and get an opportunity to become commissioned officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Apart from an attractive salary, officers enjoy numerous benefits, career growth opportunities, and the pride of serving the nation.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS 2 2026?
1. Visit the UPSC Online Application Portal.
2. Complete One-Time Registration (OTR).
3. Fill the Common Application Form (CAF).
4. Upload Photograph, Live Photo, and Signature.
5. Pay the examination fee (if applicable).
6. Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.
Conclusion
The UPSC CDS 2 2026 notification offers an excellent opportunity for graduates and final-year students who dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces. With 451 vacancies available across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA, eligible candidates should not miss this chance. Interested applicants are advised to complete the registration process before 09 June 2026 and begin their preparation for the examination scheduled on 13 September 2026.
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