UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026 – Union Public Service Commission (CDS II Exam 2026)

UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026 – Apply for 451 Posts (IMA, INA, AFA, OTA)

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the CDS II Exam 2026 recruitment notification to select officers for Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officers Training Academy (OTA). This recruitment drive offers a total of 451 vacancies. Candidates intending to serve in the Indian Armed Forces should check the detailed eligibility, important dates, fee structure and selection process before applying online by the last date.

Overview

Eligibility

Eligibility for CDS II 2026 varies by academy and post. Candidates should meet the nationality, age, educational and marital status conditions specified by UPSC. Key points:

• Age: Generally between 19 and 26 years. Specific course-wise limits (IMA/INA/AFA/OTA) must be confirmed from the official notification.
• Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a degree from a recognised University or equivalent. Course-wise educational requirements differ; for example, graduates in specified streams may be eligible for particular academies — refer to the UPSC notification for course-wise details.
• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen (or as defined in the UPSC notification for subjects of Nepal/Bhutan or persons of Indian origin).
• Other conditions: Marital status and gender-specific conditions apply for certain academies (e.g., OTA). Physical and medical fitness standards are mandatory at later stages.
• Age Relaxation: Candidates holding a valid DGCA Commercial Pilot Licence may get age relaxation up to 26 years where applicable; check the official notification for exact provisions.

Important Dates

• Last date to apply online: 11 June 2026
• Application start date: Not specified in the summary — refer to the UPSC website
• Admit card, exam and interview dates: Will be published by UPSC and indicated on the admit card/official notification

Application Fee

The application fee is ₹200 for General candidates. There is no fee for SC/ST candidates. Payment can typically be made online via net banking, debit/credit card or other modes provided on the UPSC portal. Retain payment receipt and confirmation for records.

How to Apply (Online)

Candidates must apply online through the official UPSC website. General practical steps are:

• 1. Visit the UPSC official website (upsc.gov.in) and navigate to the 'Online Application for Various Examinations' section.
• 2. Find the CDS II Exam 2026 notification and click the online application link.
• 3. Register or log in with required details (name, email, mobile no.).
• 4. Fill the application form carefully with personal, educational and category details.
• 5. Upload scanned photograph, signature and other required documents as per specifications.
• 6. Pay the application fee (if applicable) and submit the form.
• 7. Download/print the confirmation page and keep a copy of the application and fee receipt for future reference.

Selection Process

The typical selection stages for CDS are:

• Written Examination (conducted by UPSC)
• Service Selection Board (SSB) Interview for candidates who qualify the written exam
• Document Verification and character/citizenship checks
• Medical Examination by authorised military medical authorities
• Final merit list based on performance in written exam and SSB (and medical clearance)

FAQs

• Q: What is the last date for UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026?
  A: The last date to apply is 11 June 2026.
• Q: What is the application fee for UPSC CDS II 2026?
  A: Application fee is ₹200 for General candidates; SC/ST candidates are exempted (Nil).
• Q: What is the age limit for CDS II Exam 2026 posts?
  A: The general age limit is 19–26 years; specific course-wise limits and relaxations (including for DGCA CPL holders) are detailed in the official notification.
• Q: How many vacancies are there in UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026?
  A: There are a total of 451 vacancies across IMA, INA, AFA and OTA.
• Q: What is the selection process for CDS II Exam 2026?
  A: Selection involves a UPSC written exam followed by SSB interview, document verification and medical examination.

For precise course-wise eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus and exact start date for applications check the detailed UPSC CDS II 2026 notification on the official UPSC website. Ensure you meet all criteria and apply before the closing date.