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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially unveiled the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2 Examination 2026, inviting applications from candidates eager to serve in the Indian Armed Forces.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply online via the UPSC official website for entry into esteemed defence institutions such as the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy.

Exam Schedule

The CDS 2 2026 examination is set to take place nationwide on September 13, 2026.

Important Dates for CDS 2 2026

Candidates should note the following key dates:

Event Date

Notification Release Date	May 20, 2026
Application Start Date	May 20, 2026
Last Date to Apply	June 9, 2026
CDS 2 Exam Date	September 13, 2026
Application Mode	Online

Details regarding vacancies will be released separately by UPSC.

Understanding the CDS 2 Examination

The CDS examination is a prominent recruitment test in India for those aspiring to join the armed forces.

Successful candidates can gain admission into:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA)


• Indian Naval Academy (INA)


• Air Force Academy (AFA)


• Officers Training Academy (OTA)

UPSC conducts this examination biannually.

Age Requirements for CDS 2 2026

Age eligibility varies based on the selected academy:

Indian Military Academy (IMA)

• Age Limit: 19 to 24 years

Indian Naval Academy (INA)

• Age Limit: 19 to 24 years

Air Force Academy (AFA)

• Age Limit: 20 to 24 years

Officers Training Academy (OTA)

• Age Limit: 19 to 25 years

Candidates must verify their age eligibility prior to applying.

Selection Process for CDS 2 2026

The selection procedure for CDS 2 2026 consists of several stages:

Written Examination

SSB Interview

Medical Examination

Those who pass the written exam will be invited for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview.

Exam Pattern for CDS 2 2026

The written examination comprises three main subjects:

• English


• General Knowledge


• Elementary Mathematics

Duration and Question Distribution

























Subject Number of Questions Duration

English	120	2 Hours
General Knowledge	120	2 Hours
Mathematics	100	2 Hours

Candidates applying for OTA typically do not need to take the mathematics section.

Steps to Apply for CDS 2 Recruitment 2026

To apply online, candidates should follow these steps:

Visit the official UPSC website

Access the CDS 2 Recruitment 2026 application link

Complete the registration and provide personal information

Upload necessary documents and photographs

Pay the application fee, if required

Submit the application and download the confirmation page

It is crucial for applicants to double-check all information before final submission to prevent errors.

Conclusion

The CDS examination is a highly esteemed pathway into the Indian defence services, drawing numerous candidates each year.