UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026 notification released for 451 vacancies in IMA, INA, AFA & OTA. Check eligibility, salary, exam pattern, selection process, important dates, and apply online details.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) II 2026. If you dream of joining the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force as an officer, this is one of the biggest opportunities of the year.
Through this recruitment drive, UPSC will fill 451 vacancies in prestigious defence academies like IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. The online application process has already started from 20 May 2026 and eligible candidates can apply till 09 June 2026.
This recruitment is perfect for graduates who want a respected career, good salary, job security, and the pride of serving the country.
UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026 : Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 451 Posts |
| Courses | IMA, INA, AFA, OTA |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Job Type | Defence Services |
| Official Website | UPSC Official Website |
Vacancy Details
| Academy | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA Men) | 275 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA Women) | 18 |
| Total | 451 |
Eligibility Criteria : UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026
Candidates must meet the nationality, educational qualification, and age limit criteria mentioned in the official notification.
Educational Qualification
| Academy | Qualification |
|---|---|
| IMA & OTA | Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university |
| INA | Engineering Degree or B.Sc with Physics & Mathematics |
| AFA | Graduation with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level or B.E./B.Tech |
Final year students can also apply provisionally.
Age Limit
For IMA & INA
- Unmarried male candidates born between 02 July 2003 to 01 July 2008
For Air Force Academy
- 20 to 24 years as on 01 July 2027
For OTA (Men & Women)
- Candidates born between 02 July 2002 to 01 July 2008
Only unmarried candidates are eligible for most entries.
Salary Details : UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026
After successful training, selected candidates receive attractive salary packages along with allowances and facilities.
| Rank | Approx Salary |
|---|---|
| Lieutenant | Rs. 56,100/- to Rs. 1,77,500/- |
| Military Service Pay (MSP) | Rs. 15,500/- |
| Other Benefits | DA, HRA, Medical, Travel, Pension Benefits |
Apart from salary, officers also receive accommodation, canteen facilities, insurance cover, and other government benefits.
Selection Process : UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026
The UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026 selection process includes multiple stages:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Document Verification
- Final Merit List
Candidates who clear all stages will get admission into respective defence academies.
Exam Pattern
For IMA, INA & AFA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
Total Marks: 300
For OTA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
Total Marks: 200
Important Points
- Exam will be offline (OMR based)
- Objective type questions
- Negative marking applicable
- Black ball pen only allowed
Application Fees
| Category | Fees |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 200/- |
| SC / ST / Female Candidates | No Fee |
Payment can be made through UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
🔗 Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Join WhatsApp Channel | Click Here |
| Home Page | Click Here |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 09 June 2026 |
| CDS 2 Exam Date | 13 September 2026 |
| Expected Result Date | October 2026 |
How to Apply Online : UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026
Candidates can follow these simple steps to apply:
- Visit the official UPSC portal
- Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill the CDS 2 application form carefully
- Upload photo, signature, and required documents
- Pay application fee
- Submit the form and take a printout
Why CDS is a Great Career Option
Joining defence services through CDS gives you:
- Respect and pride
- Secure government job
- Excellent salary and allowances
- Adventure and leadership opportunities
- Pension and retirement benefits
- Opportunity to serve the nation
For many students, CDS is not just a job exam — it’s a dream career.
FAQ – UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026
1. How many vacancies are available in UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026?
A total of 451 vacancies have been announced.
2. Can final year students apply for CDS 2 2026?
Yes, final year graduation students are eligible to apply provisionally.
3. What is the last date to apply online?
The last date to submit the online application form is 09 June 2026.
4. Is there negative marking in CDS exam?
Yes, negative marking is applicable in the written examination.
5. What is the salary after selection in CDS?
Selected candidates can get starting salary around Rs. 56,100/- plus allowances after training.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is based on the official UPSC CDS 2 Recruitment 2026 notification. Candidates are advised to visit the official UPSC website and read the detailed notification carefully before applying. Any updates or changes released by UPSC will be applicable accordingly.