CDS 2 2026 Notification Released: Exam Date Set for September 13, 2026
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has issued the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2 exam for 2026 on May 20, 2026. This examination is scheduled for September 13, 2026, and serves as a crucial step for aspirants aiming to become officers in India’s esteemed defense academies and pursue a career in the military services.
Recognizing the importance of this examination, many candidates are looking forward to guidance and support to ensure they are adequately prepared for this significant opportunity.
Join CDS Exam Online Course Today
This guide intends to provide comprehensive information about CDS 2 2026, including the exam schedule, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and preparation strategies to help candidates achieve their aspiration of serving the nation.
Our aim is to offer you the knowledge and confidence needed to successfully approach this examination and take a significant step toward a rewarding career in the defense forces.
Notification Overview
The CDS 2 2026 exam is one of the critical examinations conducted by UPSC, aiming to select candidates for premier defense academies such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA).
Key Dates for CDS 2 2026
| CDS 2 2026 EVENTS | DATES |
| CDS 2 2026 Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| CDS 2 2026 Application Last Date | 9 June 2026 |
| CDS 2 2026 Exam Date | 13 September 2026 (SUNDAY) |
| CDS 2 2026 Result Date (Expected) | October – November 2026 |
Vacancy Details
For CDS 2 2026, the UPSC has announced a total of 451 vacancies distributed among various defense academies. The details are as follows:
| Academy | Vacancies | Course Details | Commencement Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy, Dehradun | 100 | 163rd (DE) Course | July 2027 |
| Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala | 26 | Executive Branch | July 2027 |
| Air Force Academy, Hyderabad | 32 | Pre-Flying Training Course | July 2027 |
| Officers' Training Academy, Chennai (Madras) SSC Men | 275 | 126th SSC (Men) (NT) (UPSC) Course | October 2027 |
| Officers Training Academy, Chennai SSC Women | 18 | 126th SSC Women (NT) (UPSC) | October 2027 |
Eligibility Criteria for CDS 2 2026
Understanding the eligibility criteria for CDS 2 2026 is crucial for candidates. These criteria determine if candidates are suitable for the challenging roles within the defense forces.
Nationality
- Candidates must be citizens of India, or
- Candidates must be subjects of Nepal, or
- Candidates must be persons of Indian origin who have migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, and Ethiopia or Vietnam with the intention of permanent settlement.
Those falling under categories (ii) and (iii) need a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India, except for Gorkha subjects of Nepal.
Age Limit
The age criteria for CDS 2 2026 are distinct for each academy:
| Academy | Eligibility | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | Unmarried male candidates | Not Born Earlier Than 1st July 2003 and Not Later Than 1st July 2008 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | Unmarried male candidates | Not Born Earlier Than 1st July 2003 and Not Later Than 1st July 2008 |
| Air Force Academy | Unmarried male candidates | Not Born Earlier Than 1st July 2003 and Not Later Than 1st July 2007 (Not Born Earlier Than 1st July 2001 and Not Later Than 1st July 2007 if holding a Commercial Pilot Licence) |
| Officers' Training Academy (SSC Men) | Unmarried male candidates | Not Born Earlier Than 1st July 2002 and Not Later Than 1st July 2008 |
| Officers' Training Academy (SSC Women Non-Technical) | Unmarried women, issueless widows, issueless divorcees | Not Born Earlier Than 1st July 2002 and Not Later Than 1st July 2008 |
The date of birth will be verified through the matriculation or equivalent certificate.
Educational Qualifications
Applicants for CDS 2 2026 need a degree from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification. Requirements vary by academy:
| Academy | Educational Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy, Dehradun | Degree of a recognized university or equivalent | Final year students can apply if no backlogs |
| Officers' Training Academy, Chennai | Degree of a recognized university or equivalent | Final year students can apply if no backlogs |
| Indian Naval Academy | Degree in Engineering OR B.Sc. with Physics as core or elective subject from recognised university/ institution (with Physics and Mathematics in 10+2 level). | Final year students can apply if no backlogs |
| Air Force Academy | Degree of a recognized university (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) OR Bachelor of Engineering | Final year students can apply if no backlogs |
Candidates in their final year must provide proof of their degree by specific dates or their application will be canceled:
- For IMA: On or before 1st July 2027
- For Indian Naval Academy: On or before 1st July 2027
- For Air Force Academy: On or before 13th May 2027
- For Officers' Training Academy, Chennai: On or before 1st October 2027
Physical Standards
Physical fitness standards for CDS candidates are stringent. Male candidates need a minimum height of 157.5 cm (157 cm for Navy; 162.5 cm for Air Force) and female candidates 152 cm, with some regional relaxations available.
Fee
Except for SC/ST/female candidates and wards of JCOs/NCOs/ORs, a fee of Rs. 200 is required. If payment issues occur, candidates must provide proof within a specified time, or their applications will be rejected.
Application Process
The application process for CDS 2 2026 is online through the UPSC website https://upsconline.nic.in. Timely submission is essential.
Steps to Apply:
Check for recent updates before applying.
- Registration: Begin at the UPSC site with sections including Account Creation and an Exam-Specific Form.
- Fill Application Form: Provide personal details and preferences.
- Upload Documents: Submit scanned photos, signatures, and ID proof.
- Pay Application Fee: Online payment via debit/credit card or net banking.
- Submit Form: Ensure accuracy before submission.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The CDS 2 2026 exam comprises three papers: English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics, each lasting two hours:
| Academy | Subject | Code | Duration | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IMA | English | 11 | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 12 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| Elementary Mathematics | 13 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| INA | English | 11 | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 12 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| Elementary Mathematics | 13 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| AFA | English | 11 | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 12 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| Elementary Mathematics | 13 | 2 Hours | 100 | |
| OTA | English | 11 | 2 Hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 12 | 2 Hours | 100 |
Admit Card
The admit card for CDS 2 2026 will be available on the UPSC website. Candidates must download it using their registration or roll number. The admit card is essential for entry into the exam venue, along with a valid photo ID.
Result
UPSC will announce the CDS 2 2026 results on its official site. Candidates can check their qualification status through their roll number or name. The marks will be released only after the final results are out.
Candidate Helpline for Assistance
UPSC provides a helpline for candidates needing assistance:
- Helpline Number: 011-24041001
- Working Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Working Days: Monday to Friday (except holidays)
Candidates can get help with:
- Filling the application form
- Fee payment issues
- Uploading documents
- Any other application-related queries
Selection Process
The selection for CDS 2 2026 includes a written examination followed by an SSB interview:
- Written Examination: Qualifiers proceed to the SSB interview.
- SSB Interview: Comprises psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.
- Medical Examination: Ensures candidates meet fitness standards for the armed forces.
- Final Selection: Based on combined performance, UPSC announces the final list of successful candidates.
Conclusion
CDS 2 2026 is a valuable chance for aspirants to join the armed forces. Adhering to the notification details and preparing rigorously can lead to a fulfilling career in defense services. Best wishes to all candidates.
