The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the Combined Defence Services (CDS-II) Recruitment 2026 Notification for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This is one of the most prestigious defence entrance examinations in India.
Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official UPSC website within the given schedule. Selection will be based on written exam, SSB interview, and medical test.
UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services (CDS-II) 2026 |
| Forces Covered | Indian Army, Navy, Air Force |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Process | Written Exam → SSB Interview → Medical Test |
| Job Type | Defence Government Job |
| Official Website | UPSC Official Website |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Apply Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Online Apply Last Date | 09 June 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 09 June 2026 |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Admit Card | Before Exam |
| Result Date | Will Be Updated Here Soon |
Application Fee
- General / OBC / EWS: ₹200/-
- SC / ST / Female Candidates: No Fee
- Payment Mode: Online (Debit Card / Credit Card / Net Banking / UPI)
Post Details & Eligibility
| Academy | Post | Age Limit | Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | Officer | 19–24 Years | Graduation |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | Officer | 19–24 Years | Engineering Degree |
| Air Force Academy | Officer | 20–24 Years | Graduation with Physics & Maths (10+2 level or Degree) |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | Officer | 19–25 Years | Graduation |
Selection Process
The CDS-II selection process includes:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview (5-Day Process)
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Exam Pattern (CDS-II 2026)
For IMA, INA, AFA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
For OTA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
How to Apply Online for UPSC CDS-II 2026
Step 1:
Visit official website 👉 https://upsc.gov.in
Step 2:
Click on “Apply Online” section
Step 3:
Select CDS-II Recruitment 2026
Step 4:
Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
Step 5:
Fill application form carefully
Step 6:
Upload documents & pay fee
Step 7:
Submit and print application form
Physical & Medical Standards
Candidates must be:
- Medically fit as per Defence standards
- No major vision or physical defects
- Height & chest standards as per force rules
Important Documents Required
- Graduation Certificate
- 10th & 12th Marksheet
- Passport size photo
- Signature
- ID Proof (Aadhaar/PAN)
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
Salary After Selection
- Training Allowance: ₹56,100/month (approx)
- After Commission: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (Level 10 Pay Matrix)
- Additional Defence allowances and benefits
Important Links
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Check Official Notification | Click Here |
| UPSC Official Website | Click Here |
FAQ – UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026
Q1. What is UPSC CDS-II Recruitment 2026?
It is a defence entrance exam for recruitment into Army, Navy, and Air Force officers.
Q2. What is the qualification required?
Candidates must be graduates from a recognized university.
Q3. What is the age limit for CDS-II?
Age limit is 19 to 25 years depending on academy.
Q4. What is the selection process?
Written exam, SSB interview, and medical test.
Q5. Is CDS exam tough?
Yes, it is a high-level competitive defence exam.