The Union Public Service Commission has officially released the notification for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2 Examination 2026, opening the door for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces.

Eligible and interested candidates can now apply online through the official UPSC portal for admission to prestigious defence institutions including the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy.

The CDS 2 2026 examination is scheduled to be conducted across India on September 13, 2026.

CDS 2 2026 Application Dates

Here are the important dates candidates should remember:

The vacancy details are expected to be announced separately by UPSC.

What Is CDS 2 Examination?

The CDS examination is one of India’s most popular defence recruitment exams for candidates seeking careers in the armed forces.

Through this examination, candidates can get admission into:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA)
• Indian Naval Academy (INA)
• Air Force Academy (AFA)
• Officers Training Academy (OTA)

UPSC conducts the CDS exam twice every year.

Candidates can also choose between permanent commission and short service commission depending on the academy and service branch.

CDS 2 2026 Age Limit

The age criteria vary according to the academy selected by the candidate.

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 ensure they meet the required age eligibility before submitting the application form.

CDS 2 2026 Selection Process

The recruitment process for CDS 2 2026 will include multiple stages:

1. Written Examination
2. SSB Interview
3. Medical Examination

Candidates who qualify in the written test will be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview round.

CDS 2 2026 Exam Pattern

The CDS written examination includes three major subjects:

• English
• General Knowledge
• Elementary Mathematics

Duration and Question Pattern

Candidates applying for OTA generally do not have to appear for the mathematics paper.

How to Apply for CDS 2 Recruitment 2026

Candidates can apply online through the official UPSC website by following these steps:

1. Visit the UPSC official portal
2. Open the CDS 2 Recruitment 2026 application link
3. Complete registration and fill in personal details
4. Upload required documents and photographs
5. Pay the application fee, if applicable
6. Submit the form and download the confirmation page

Applicants are advised to carefully verify all details before final submission to avoid mistakes during the recruitment process.

The CDS examination remains one of the most respected entry routes into the Indian defence services, attracting thousands of aspirants every year.