UPSC CDS 2 2026 Notification Released: 451 Vacancies for Indian Armed Forces – Apply Now (Last Date Extended)
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the CDS 2 2026 Notification for the Combined Defence Services Examination (II) 2026. A total of 451 vacancies have been announced for admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).
The notification was issued on 20 May 2026, and the online application process is currently open. The last date to apply has been extended to 11 June 2026 (6:00 PM).
Key Highlights of UPSC CDS 2 2026
- Total Vacancies: 451 (tentative, subject to change)
- Courses Commencing: July 2027 (for most academies)
- Exam Date: 13 September 2026 (Sunday)
- Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen & Paper)
- Selection Process: Written Exam → SSB Interview → Medical Examination
- Official Website: upsc.gov.in
Vacancy Details (Approximate)
| Academy | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | ~200 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | ~32 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | ~32 |
| Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) | ~187 |
| Total | 451 |
(Note: Exact category-wise and academy-wise breakup is available in the official notification PDF.)
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Indian citizen (or subject of Nepal/Bhutan with certain conditions)
- Age Limit (as on 1 July 2027):
- IMA & INA: 19–24 years
- AFA: 20–24 years
- OTA: 19–25 years
- Educational Qualification:
- IMA & OTA: Graduation from a recognised university
- INA: Degree in Engineering
- AFA: Degree in Engineering or B.Sc with Physics & Mathematics
- Marital Status: Unmarried (for IMA, INA, AFA); both unmarried and married candidates eligible for OTA (with conditions)
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 20 May 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 11 June 2026 (Extended) |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | September 2026 |
Application Fee
- General/OBC/EWS: ₹200
- SC/ST/Female candidates: Exempted
Fee can be paid online through net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS 2 2026
- Visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in
- Click on “Apply Online” → “CDS Examination (II), 2026”
- Register using One Time Registration (OTR) if not already done
- Fill the detailed application form
- Upload required documents and pay the fee
- Submit and take a printout for future reference
Selection Process
- Written Examination (Objective type)
- IMA/INA/AFA: English, General Knowledge, Elementary Mathematics
- OTA: English + General Knowledge
- SSB Interview (5 days)
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Stipend & Salary
During training: ₹56,100 per month (as per 7th CPC). After commissioning: Pay scale starts from ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10) + allowances.
Why Apply for CDS 2 2026?
This is one of the most prestigious direct entry exams for the Indian Armed Forces. Successful candidates get commissioned as officers in the Army, Navy, or Air Force with excellent career growth, respect, and benefits.
Important Note: The application window closes on 11 June 2026. Candidates are advised to apply at the earliest to avoid last-minute technical issues. Always refer to the official UPSC notification for complete details, as vacancies and rules are subject to change.
Official Links:
- Notification PDF & Apply Online: upsc.gov.in
- Detailed Syllabus & Previous Papers: Available on the official website
Stay updated for admit card release and exam guidelines. Best of luck to all aspirants!
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