UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Apply Online for 451 Defence Posts
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 notification for candidates interested in defence jobs after graduation. The Combined Defence Services Examination II 2026 is being conducted for recruitment in Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy (OTA). Eligible candidates can submit the UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026 through the official UPSC website from 20 May 2026 to 09 June 2026. Candidates should check the eligibility criteria, age limit, selection process, exam date, and other important details before applying online.
Candidates interested in defence sector recruitment can also check UPSC NDA II Recruitment 2026 Apply Online for 394 Defence Posts and Indian Navy SSC Executive IT Recruitment 2026 Apply Online for 15 Posts for the latest defence job opportunities.
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Organization Name | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination II 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 Posts |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
Important Dates
Candidates interested in UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 should carefully check all important dates related to the UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026 before applying online.
| 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 |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Admit Card | Available Before Exam |
Application Fee
Candidates applying for UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026 should check the category-wise application fee details before submitting the application form.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC | ₹200/- |
| SC / ST | ₹0/- |
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details
UPSC has announced a total of 451 vacancies for the Combined Defence Services Examination II 2026. Candidates can check academy-wise vacancy details below.
| Academy Name | Total Posts |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Air Force Academy | 32 |
| Indian Naval Academy | 26 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | 293 |
| Total | 451 |
Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for UPSC CDS II Vacancy 2026 should fulfill the required educational qualification criteria before submitting the online application form.
- For IMA & OTA : Bachelor’s Degree in any stream from a recognized university.
- For Indian Naval Academy : Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.
- For Air Force Academy : Bachelor’s Degree with Physics and Mathematics in 10+2 level.
Age Limit
Candidates interested in UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 should check the required age limit as mentioned in the official notification.
- Candidates born between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2008 are eligible.
- Age relaxation will be applicable as per UPSC rules.
Selection Process
Selection for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 will be completed through written examination, SSB interview, and medical examination.
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Preparation Tips for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
- Understand the CDS exam pattern and syllabus before starting preparation.
- Focus on English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics subjects regularly.
- Practice previous year CDS question papers and mock tests.
- Stay updated with defence current affairs and national news.
- Improve communication skills and confidence for the SSB Interview.
- Maintain physical fitness and a disciplined daily study routine.
Why Apply for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026?
- Excellent opportunity for graduates interested in defence officer jobs.
- Chance to join Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force through CDS Examination.
- UPSC CDS II Vacancy 2026 offers 451 posts in different defence academies.
- Provides leadership training, discipline, and career stability.
- Opportunity to serve the nation with pride and responsibility.
How to Apply Online for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official UPSC website.
- Open the UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 application page.
- Complete registration using valid personal details.
- Fill out the UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026 carefully.
- Upload required documents, photograph, and signature.
- Pay the application fee through online mode if applicable.
- Review all details carefully before final submission.
- Submit the application form and take a printout for future reference.
Important Links
| Important Links | Action |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Apply Here |
| Official Notification | Download PDF |
| UPSC Official Website | Visit Website |
UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026 FAQs
What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026?
The last date to submit the UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026 is 09 June 2026.
How many vacancies are available in UPSC CDS II Vacancy 2026?
UPSC has announced a total of 451 vacancies for Combined Defence Services Examination II 2026.
What is the educational qualification required for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026?
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university.
What is the age limit for UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2026?
Candidates born between 01 July 2003 and 01 July 2008 are eligible to apply.
What is the selection process for UPSC CDS II Vacancy 2026?
Selection will be based on Written Examination, SSB Interview, and Medical Examination.
Where can candidates apply for UPSC CDS II Online Form 2026?
Candidates can apply online through the official UPSC website.