UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026 Apply Online for 451 Posts
Description: UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 online application started for IMA, OTA, INA, and Air Force Academy posts. Check eligibility, age limit, exam date, selection process, and apply steps.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
- The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially started the online application process for the Combined Defence Services Examination II 2026. Candidates who want to join the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Air Force, or Officers Training Academy can now submit their online application forms through the official UPSC recruitment portal.
- The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination is one of the most respected defence recruitment examinations in India. Every year, thousands of graduates apply for CDS recruitment to build a career in the Indian Armed Forces. This examination provides opportunities for candidates to receive officer-level training and serve the nation through prestigious defence academies.
- The online application process for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 began on 20 May 2026, while the last date to apply online is 09 June 2026. Candidates preparing for latest government jobs 2026, defence jobs, UPSC recruitment exams, and sarkari naukri opportunities should carefully review the complete notification before filling out the form.
- The recruitment offers a total of 451 vacancies across Indian Military Academy, Air Force Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Officers Training Academy.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Examination Name | Combined Defence Services Examination II 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 Posts |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Job Category | Defence Government Jobs |
| Exam Mode | Offline |
| Official Notification Status | Released |
Important Dates
Candidates should keep track of all important events related to the CDS II Examination 2026.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 09 June 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 09 June 2026 |
| CDS II Examination Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Before Examination |
| Result Declaration | Updated Later |
Candidates are advised to regularly check official UPSC updates for examination centers, admit card release, and result announcements.
Application Fee
The application fee details for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 are given below.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC Candidates | ₹200/- |
| SC / ST Candidates | ₹0/- |
Online Payment Methods
Candidates can pay the application fee using:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Internet Banking
- IMPS
- Mobile Wallet
- Cash Card
UPSC CDS II Age Limit 2026
Candidates must satisfy the required age conditions according to UPSC rules.
Applicants born not earlier than 01 July 2003 and not later than 01 July 2008 are eligible to apply for the examination.
Additional age relaxation will be provided according to UPSC recruitment regulations wherever applicable.
Total Vacancy Details
UPSC has announced 451 vacancies under Combined Defence Services Examination II 2026.
| Academy Name | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Air Force Academy | 32 |
| Indian Naval Academy | 26 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | 293 |
UPSC CDS II Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must fulfill the educational qualification conditions according to the academy they are applying for.
Indian Military Academy (IMA) Eligibility
- Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university.
Officers Training Academy (OTA) Eligibility
- Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Indian Naval Academy Eligibility
- Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized institution.
Air Force Academy Eligibility
- Applicants should possess a Bachelor’s degree in any stream. Candidates must also have studied Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.
Candidates are advised to read the official notification carefully before completing the online application process.
UPSC CDS II Selection Process 2026
The selection process for CDS II Recruitment 2026 includes several stages.
Written Examination
Candidates must first appear in the written examination conducted by UPSC. The examination includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics subjects depending on the academy.
SSB Interview
Candidates qualifying in the written examination will be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. This stage evaluates personality, communication skills, intelligence, leadership ability, and psychological suitability.
Medical Examination
Candidates clearing the SSB stage must pass the medical fitness examination according to defence standards.
Final Merit List
The final merit list will be prepared on the basis of written examination performance and SSB interview marks.
How to Apply for UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026
Candidates can complete the application process by following the steps below.
Step 1: Visit the Official UPSC Website
Open the official UPSC recruitment portal and access the CDS II Examination 2026 section.
Step 2: Read the Notification Carefully
Carefully review all instructions related to eligibility, age limit, educational qualification, examination process, and physical standards.
Step 3: Complete Online Registration
Register using a valid mobile number and email ID.
Step 4: Fill the Application Form
Enter all required details including:
- Personal Information
- Educational Qualification
- Examination Center Choice
- Identity Details
- Communication Address
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of:
- Passport Size Photograph
- Signature
- Identity Proof
- Educational Certificates
Step 6: Pay Application Fee
Complete the online payment process using available payment methods.
Step 7: Verify All Details
Preview the application form carefully and verify all information before submission.
Step 8: Submit and Print Form
Submit the online application successfully and keep a printed copy for future reference.
Documents Required for CDS II Application Form 2026
Candidates should keep the following documents ready before applying online:
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport Size Photograph
- Signature Scan Copy
- Graduation Marksheet
- Degree Certificate
- Category Certificate (If Applicable)
- Valid Mobile Number
- Active Email ID
Why UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 is Important
The Combined Defence Services examination is considered one of the best career opportunities for graduates who wish to become officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Candidates selected through CDS recruitment receive professional military training and later serve in important defence roles across India.
The examination is highly popular among candidates searching for defence jobs after graduation, UPSC recruitment 2026, government jobs for graduates, Indian Army officer recruitment, Air Force officer jobs, and Navy recruitment opportunities.
The CDS route offers strong career growth, government facilities, leadership opportunities, and a respected position in national service. Because of these advantages, competition for CDS vacancies remains high every year.
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Fill the online application form carefully without spelling mistakes.
- Verify educational qualification details before submission.
- Upload clear and properly scanned documents.
- Complete fee payment before the last date.
- Keep login credentials safe for future use.
- Regularly check updates regarding admit card and examination schedule.
FAQ – UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026?
The last date to submit the online application form is 09 June 2026.
How many vacancies are available in UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026?
There are a total of 451 vacancies available across IMA, OTA, Air Force Academy, and Naval Academy.
What is the CDS II Exam Date 2026?
The UPSC CDS II Examination 2026 will be conducted on 13 September 2026.
What qualification is required for IMA and OTA?
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in any stream.
Is Engineering degree mandatory for Naval Academy?
Yes, candidates applying for Indian Naval Academy must possess an Engineering degree.
What is the age limit for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026?
Candidates born between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2008 are eligible.
What is the application fee for CDS II Online Form 2026?
General and OBC candidates need to pay ₹200 while SC and ST candidates are exempted from fee payment.
What is the selection process for CDS II Recruitment?
The selection process includes written examination, SSB interview, medical examination, and final merit list.
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