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UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026
UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 released for 451 vacancies in IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. Check eligibility, exam date, syllabus, selection process, age limit, and apply online details.
UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 Released: Complete Details for CDS 2 Exam
The UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 has officially been released by the Union Public Service Commission for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. The Combined Defence Services Examination is one of the most prestigious defence recruitment examinations in India. Through the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026, eligible candidates can apply for admission into the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy.
Every year, thousands of candidates prepare for the CDS examination to fulfill their dream of serving the nation as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The latest UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 brings excellent opportunities for graduates seeking a career in the defence sector.
Candidates interested in defence jobs after graduation should carefully read the complete UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 to understand important details such as eligibility criteria, vacancies, exam pattern, syllabus, age limit, application process, and selection procedure.
UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 Overview
The UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 was released on 20 May 2026, while the last date to submit the online application form is 09 June 2026. The CDS 2 examination is scheduled to be conducted on 13 September 2026.
Candidates can apply online only through the official UPSC website. The application process includes Universal Registration Number generation, Common Application Form submission, and examination-specific form completion.
The UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 also mentions that candidates must use valid identity proof and upload live photographs, signatures, and supporting documents during the application process.
UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 Vacancy Details
According to the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026, a total of 451 vacancies has been announced for different defence academies.
The vacancy distribution includes:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA) – 100 vacancies
- Indian Naval Academy (INA) – 26 vacancies
- Air Force Academy (AFA) – 32 vacancies
- Officers Training Academy (OTA Men) – 275 vacancies
- Officers Training Academy (OTA Women) – 18 vacancies
The number of vacancies mentioned in the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 is tentative and may change according to organizational requirements.
UPSC CDS 2 Eligibility Criteria 2026
The UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 provides detailed eligibility conditions for all courses.
Educational Qualification
For IMA and OTA, candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. For INA, candidates should have an engineering degree or a B.Sc. degree with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level. For Air Force Academy, candidates must hold a graduate degree with Physics and Mathematics at the higher secondary level or a Bachelor of Engineering degree.
Final-year students are also eligible to apply for the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026, provided they can submit proof of passing the degree examination within the prescribed timeline.
Age Limit
The age criteria under the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 vary according to the academy.
For IMA and INA, candidates should be between 19 and 24 years. For Air Force Academy, the age limit is 20 to 24 years, while OTA candidates should be between 19 and 25 years.
Marital Status
Unmarried male candidates are eligible for IMA, INA, and AFA. For OTA Women entries, unmarried women, issueless widows, and divorced women who have not remarried are eligible to apply.
UPSC CDS 2 Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates preparing for the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 exam must understand the latest exam pattern.
The written examination for IMA, INA, and AFA consists of three subjects:
- English
- General Knowledge
- Elementary Mathematics
Each paper carries 100 marks and has a duration of two hours.
For OTA candidates, the written examination includes:
- English
- General Knowledge
Each paper carries 100 marks.
The questions in the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 exam will be objective type. There is also a negative marking system for incorrect answers.
UPSC CDS 2 Syllabus 2026
The UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 syllabus covers English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.
English Syllabus
The English section tests vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, comprehension, and usage of words.
For detailed syllabus, check the full notification here: CDS 2026
Candidates preparing for the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 should regularly practice mock tests and previous year papers to improve speed and accuracy.
CDS 2 Selection Process 2026
The selection process mentioned in the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 consists of multiple stages.
Written Examination
Candidates first appear for the CDS written examination conducted by UPSC.
SSB Interview
Candidates qualifying in the written exam are called for the Services Selection Board interview, which includes psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.
Medical Examination
Candidates clearing the SSB interview must undergo medical examination according to defence standards.
Final Merit List
The final merit list under the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 is prepared based on written examination marks and SSB interview performance.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026
Candidates interested in the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 can apply online through the official UPSC portal.
The application process includes:
- Creating a Universal Registration Number
- Filling Common Application Form
- Uploading photograph and signature
- Selecting examination center
- Payment of examination fee
- Final submission of application form
Candidates should carefully fill all details because corrections are not allowed after final submission.
UPSC CDS 2 Application Fee 2026
The UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 examination will be conducted across multiple cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Jaipur, Lucknow, Patna, Pune, Bhopal, Chandigarh, and many more
Candidates are advised to apply early to secure their preferred examination center because allotment is done on a first-apply-first-allot basis.
UPSC CDS 2 Preparation Tips 2026
Candidates preparing for the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 should follow a disciplined study plan.
Daily newspaper reading is important for current affairs and defence-related news. Candidates should focus on strengthening mathematics fundamentals and improving English grammar and comprehension skills.
Regular mock tests, revision, and physical fitness preparation are equally important for success in the CDS examination and SSB interview.
The UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for graduates who aspire to serve the nation as commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces. With 451 vacancies available across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA, candidates have a great chance to begin a prestigious defence career.
Candidates should complete the application process before the last date and begin focused preparation for both the written examination and SSB interview. Consistent preparation, time management, physical fitness, and confidence are the key factors for success in the CDS examination.
The competition in the UPSC CDS 2 Notification 2026 exam will be intense, but dedicated candidates with proper strategy and determination can achieve their dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces.
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