Overview of UPSC CDS 2 Examination 2026
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has issued a notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS II) for the year 2026. This exam is crucial for candidates aspiring to join prestigious military academies in India, such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). With a total of 451 vacancies, this recruitment is a significant opportunity for eligible candidates to secure a position in the Indian armed forces.
The notification was published on 20th May 2026, and the online application process commenced on the same day. Candidates are encouraged to apply before the 9th June 2026 deadline. This examination serves as a gateway for individuals to demonstrate their capabilities and commitment to serve the nation.
Key Details of UPSC CDS 2 2026
The UPSC CDS II examination is structured to assess the knowledge and skills of candidates through a rigorous selection process. Here are some key details:
- Examination Name: Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026
- Organization: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Application Mode: Online only via upsconline.nic.in
- Total Vacancies: 451 (subject to change)
- Date of Examination: 13th September 2026
- Result Declaration: October 2026 (tentative)
- Official Website: upsc.gov.in
These details highlight the importance of timely application and preparation for candidates aiming to succeed in this competitive examination.
Important Dates for UPSC CDS 2 2026
Understanding the timeline is crucial for candidates planning to apply for the UPSC CDS II examination. Here are the important dates to remember:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Date of Notification | 20th May 2026 |
| Opening of Online Application | 20th May 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Application | 9th June 2026 |
| Date of Written Examination | 13th September 2026 |
| Result of Written Exam (Tentative) | October 2026 |
These dates are essential for candidates to track their application process and prepare effectively for the examination.
Selection Process for UPSC CDS 2 2026
The selection process for the UPSC CDS II examination consists of multiple stages designed to evaluate candidates’ aptitude and suitability for military service. The key stages include:
- Stage 1: Written Examination – Candidates will take an objective-type written test covering subjects such as English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.
- Stage 2: SSB Intelligence & Personality Test – Those who qualify the written exam will be invited for the SSB interview, which assesses candidates’ leadership qualities and psychological fitness.
- Stage 3: Medical Examination – Candidates who pass the SSB interview will undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the health standards required for service.
The entire selection process is rigorous and aims to identify individuals with the potential to excel in the armed forces. Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly for each stage to enhance their chances of success.
Important Links for UPSC CDS 2 2026
For candidates looking to apply and gather more information, the following links are crucial:
- Apply Online: Click here
- Official Notification PDF: Click here
- Official Website: Click here
These links will guide candidates through the application process and provide essential details about the examination.


