UPSC CDS 2 Examination 2026
Premium Defence Career Recruitment Ecosystem 2026 —
451 Combined Defence Services Vacancies for IMA, INA, AFA & OTA
₹56,100
Stipend During Training
09 June 2026
Last Date to Apply
13 Sept 2026
Written Examination
About UPSC CDS 2 2026
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the
Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026 notification for
451 prestigious vacancies across Indian Military Academy (IMA),
Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’
Training Academy (OTA).
This premium recruitment opportunity provides entry into India’s
elite defence services with structured military training,
leadership development, salary benefits, and national service.
Vacancy Details
| Academy |
Vacancies |
Commencement |
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) |
100 |
July 2027 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) |
26 |
July 2027 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) |
32 |
July 2027 |
| OTA Men |
275 |
October 2027 |
| OTA Women |
18 |
October 2027 |
Eligibility Criteria
- IMA & OTA: Degree from a recognised University.
- INA: Engineering Degree or B.Sc with Physics & Mathematics.
- AFA: Degree with Physics & Mathematics or Engineering Degree.
- Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply.
- Final year students may also apply.
- Candidates must satisfy medical & physical standards.
Age Limit & Marital Status
| Course |
Age Limit |
Status |
| IMA / INA |
19 – 24 Years |
Unmarried Male |
| AFA |
20 – 24 Years |
As per notification |
| OTA Men |
19 – 25 Years |
Unmarried Male |
| OTA Women |
19 – 25 Years |
Women Candidates |
Selection Process
- Written Examination (Objective Type)
- SSB Interview & Personality Test
- Medical Examination
- Merit-Based Final Selection
- Negative Marking Applicable
Important Dates
- Notification Release: 20 May 2026
- Online Application Start: 20 May 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 09 June 2026
- Written Examination: 13 September 2026
- SSB Interview: Feb – June 2027
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