The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026. Candidates who wish to join the Indian Armed Forces through the Combined Defence Services Examination can now apply online before the last date.
The recruitment offers opportunities in the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Interested candidates should check eligibility, age limit, vacancy details, and important dates before submitting their applications.
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UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026
Check complete details about the UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026, including eligibility, important dates, application fee, vacancy distribution, and application process.
The UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026 is now available for eligible candidates. This examination is conducted to recruit officers for various prestigious defence academies across India.
UPSC CDS II Important Dates
Candidates should keep track of all important events related to the CDS II examination, including registration dates, fee payment deadlines, and exam schedule.
| Event | Date |
| Application Begin | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 11 June 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 11 June 2026 |
| Correction Window | As Per Schedule |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Before Exam |
UPSC CDS II Application Fee
Applicants must pay the prescribed application fee according to their category to complete the registration process successfully.
| Category | Application Fee |
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹200 |
| SC / ST / Female | ₹0 |
Payment Methods
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Net Banking
- E-Challan
UPSC CDS II Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must fulfill educational qualification requirements according to the academy they wish to join through the CDS examination.
| Academy | Eligibility |
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | Bachelor's Degree in Any Stream |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | Bachelor's Degree in Any Stream |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | Bachelor's Degree in Engineering |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | Bachelor's Degree with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 Level |
Candidates should verify complete eligibility details from the official notification.
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CDS II Age Limit 2026
Applicants must satisfy the age criteria prescribed by UPSC to participate in the Combined Defence Services Examination.
| Criteria | Age Limit |
| Minimum Age | 20 Years |
| Maximum Age | 24 Years |
Age relaxation and academy-wise conditions are applicable as per UPSC rules.
UPSC CDS II Vacancy Details
The recruitment drive offers vacancies across multiple defence academies, providing excellent career opportunities for young graduates.
| Academy | Total Posts |
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | 293 |
| Total | 451 |
OTA has the highest number of vacancies under this recruitment cycle.
Combined Defence Services Selection Process
Candidates must clear multiple stages to secure admission into the defence academies through the CDS examination.
The selection process generally includes:
- Written Examination
- Result Declaration
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Candidates who clear all stages are considered for final selection.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
Follow these steps carefully while completing the online application process to avoid errors during registration.
Step 1
Visit the official UPSC website.
Step 2
Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) process.
Step 3
Fill out the CDS II online application form.
Step 4
Upload the required documents.
Step 5
Pay the application fee if applicable.
Step 6
Verify all details and submit the application form.
Step 7
Download and print the confirmation page.
Documents Required for UPSC CDS II Application
Candidates should keep all necessary documents ready before starting the online registration process.
Required documents include:
- Graduation Certificate or Marksheet
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport Size Photograph
- Signature
- Category Certificate (If Applicable)
- Valid Email ID
- Mobile Number
Ensure that all uploaded documents meet the prescribed specifications.
Benefits of Joining Defence Services
A career through CDS offers leadership opportunities, job security, professional growth, and the honor of serving the nation.
Selected candidates receive:
- Attractive Salary Package
- Government Benefits
- Career Growth Opportunities
- Leadership Training
- Pension and Allowances
- National Service Prestige
A defence career remains one of the most respected professions in India.
Some Useful Important Links & PDFs
| Important Resource | Click & Download Links |
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Download Notification | Click Here |
| Join airGurukul Live Classes | Live Classes |
| Join the airGurukul Channel | Telegram | WhatsApp |
| Official Website | UPSC Official Website |
FAQs
1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026?
Candidates can apply online for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 until 11 June 2026.
2. How many vacancies are available under UPSC CDS II 2026?
A total of 451 vacancies are available across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA academies.
3. What is the age limit for UPSC CDS II 2026?
Applicants must be between 20 and 24 years of age. Academy-wise conditions may apply.
4. What is the educational qualification required for CDS II 2026?
Candidates need a bachelor's degree, while specific academies may require
engineering or science qualifications.






