UPSC Defence Services Examination (II) 2026: Check 451 Vacancies, Eligibility, Exam Date and How to Apply

UPSC Defence Services Examination (II) 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the Combined Defence Services Examination (II) 2026 notification, opening the door for candidates who dream of serving in the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force. This is one of the most important defence recruitment opportunities in India and attracts thousands of graduates every year.

Through UPSC CDS II 2026, eligible candidates can apply for admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). This year’s recruitment offers 451 vacancies, making it a major opportunity for aspirants preparing for defence services.

The application process started on 20 May 2026, and the last date to submit online applications is 09 June 2026. The written examination will be conducted on 13 September 2026 across India.

UPSC Defence Services Examination (II) 2026: UPSC CDS II 2026 Overview

UPSC conducts the Combined Defence Services Examination twice every year.

CDS II is especially important for candidates aiming to join armed forces training academies beginning in 2027 courses.

Quick highlights:

UPSC Defence Services Examination (II) 2026: UPSC CDS II 2026 Vacancy Details

UPSC has announced 451 vacancies across five training academies.

Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun

• 100 vacancies
• Includes NCC entry reservation
• Course begins in July 2027

Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala

• 26 vacancies
• Executive branch and Hydro stream

Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad

• 32 vacancies
• Flying branch training course

Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – Men

• 275 vacancies

Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – Women

• 18 vacancies

Total = 451 vacancies

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates should check eligibility carefully before applying.

UPSC Defence Services Examination (II) 2026: Educational Qualification

IMA / OTA

• Graduation degree from a recognized university

Indian Naval Academy

• Engineering degree

Air Force Academy

• Graduation with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level
• OR engineering degree

Candidates awaiting final-year results should verify UPSC rules before applying.

UPSC Defence Services Examination (II) 2026: Age Limit

Age criteria depend on academy.

Generally:

Exact birth-date eligibility should be checked in the official notice.

Application Fee

UPSC has prescribed:

Online payment available through UPSC portal.

Selection Process

UPSC CDS II follows multiple stages.

1. Written Examination

Subjects include:

IMA / INA / AFA

• English
• General Knowledge
• Elementary Mathematics

OTA

• English
• General Knowledge

2. SSB Interview

Shortlisted candidates appear for:

• Intelligence testing
• Psychological assessment
• Group tasks
• Personal interview

3. Medical Examination

Physical fitness and medical standards are mandatory.

4. Final Merit List

Selection depends on:

• Written exam marks
• SSB interview performance
• Medical clearance
• Document verification

Important Dates

Candidates should note these dates carefully.

How to Apply for UPSC CDS II 2026

Follow these steps:

Step 1

Visit UPSC online application portal.

Step 2

Open CDS II 2026 notification.

Step 3

Complete registration.

Step 4

Fill academy preference carefully.

Step 5

Upload:

• Photo
• Signature
• Required documents

Step 6

Pay fee if applicable.

Step 7

Submit and save confirmation.

Avoid waiting until the last date.

Why CDS Is Popular Among Defence Aspirants

Candidates prefer CDS because it offers:

• Direct entry into armed forces
• Prestigious officer-level career
• National service
• Strong salary and allowances
• Leadership opportunities
• Career growth in Army, Navy, Air Force

For many aspirants, CDS is not just an exam.

It’s the first real step toward wearing the uniform and building a career in India’s defence services.

Final Words

The UPSC Defence Services Examination (II) 2026 is a major opportunity for graduates looking to join India’s armed forces.

With 451 vacancies available across IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA, competition is expected to be strong.

Eligible candidates should complete the application before 09 June 2026 and begin focused preparation for the written exam scheduled on 13 September 2026.

Keep checking UPSC updates for the admit card and further announcements.

Amita Gavas

Amita Gavas believes in empowering students with the right knowledge and guidance so they can confidently prepare for exams and secure a stable government career.