UPSC CDS II 2026 – 451 Vacancies in IMA, INA, AFA, OTA
UPSC Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) II, 2026: 451 Defence Officer Posts
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) — Ministry of Defence
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released notification No. 11/2026-CDS-II for the Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026 for 451 vacancies across five defence academies — IMA Dehradun (100), INA Ezhimala (26), AFA Hyderabad (32), OTA Chennai Men (275), and OTA Chennai Women (18). The written examination will be held on 13 September 2026. Applications are open at upsconline.nic.in from 20 May to 09 June 2026.
Candidates with a Graduation degree (Engineering for INA, Physics+Math at 10+2 for AFA) and aged between 19 to 25 years can apply. Selection involves a written examination followed by SSB Interview and medical examination. Application fee is Rs. 200 for General/OBC/EWS; Female, SC, ST candidates are exempted. Face authentication is mandatory at the exam venue.
| Examination Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026 |
| Advertisement Number | 11/2026-CDS-II |
| Recruiting Authority | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Ministry | Ministry of Defence, Government of India |
| Total Vacancies | 451 Posts |
| Courses | IMA (100), INA (26), AFA (32), OTA Men (275), OTA Women (18) |
| Application Start | |
| Last Date to Apply | (06:00 PM) |
| Exam Date | |
| Selection Process | Written Exam → SSB Interview → Medical → Merit List |
| Application Fee | Rs. 200 (Gen/OBC/EWS) | Nil (Female/SC/ST) |
| Exam Centres | 84 cities across India |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
UPSC CDS II 2026 — Important Dates and Application Fee
Application: 20 May to 09 June 2026 | Exam: 13 September 2026 | No Correction Window
The UPSC CDS II 2026 notification was released on 20 May 2026. The application window is open from 20 May to 09 June 2026 until 06:00 PM. The written examination will be conducted on 13 September 2026 across 84 cities in India. There is no correction window — applications cannot be modified after submission.
| Notification Release | |
| Application Start | |
| Last Date to Apply | (06:00 PM) |
| Written Examination | |
| Representation Window | 3rd to 7th day after exam (till 06:00 PM) |
| IMA/INA Degree Proof | |
| AFA Degree Proof | |
| OTA Degree Proof | |
| NCC Certificate |
Final year/semester students are eligible, but must submit proof of passing before the above deadlines. Failure to submit results by the deadline leads to cancellation of candidature.
| General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 200 |
| Female (all categories) | Nil (Exempted) |
| SC | Nil (Exempted) |
| ST | Nil (Exempted) |
Only General, OBC, and EWS male candidates need to pay Rs. 200. Female candidates of all categories, SC, and ST candidates are fully exempted from fee payment. Applications without valid fee payment are liable for rejection.
Fee once paid will not be refunded under any circumstances. Candidates should verify all details before making payment.
UPSC CDS II 2026 — Vacancy Details and Eligibility
451 Posts across 5 Defence Academies | IMA, INA, AFA, OTA (Men & Women)
The UPSC CDS II 2026 examination offers 451 vacancies across five courses. The largest intake is at Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai — 275 for Men and 18 for Women. The Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun has 100 vacancies, Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad has 32, and Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala has 26 vacancies.
Course-wise Vacancy Details
| S. No. | Course / Academy | Course Details | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun | 163rd (DE) Course, commencing July 2027 | 100 |
| 2 | Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala | Executive Branch (General Service)/Hydro, commencing July 2027 | 26 |
| 3 | Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad | 222 F(P) Course, commencing July 2027 | 32 |
| 4 | Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai | 126th SSC Men (NT) Course, commencing October 2027 | 275 |
| 5 | Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai | 126th SSC Women (NT) Course, commencing October 2027 | 18 |
| Total | 451 | ||
NCC Reserved Vacancies
| Academy | NCC Reservation | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| IMA | NCC 'C' Certificate (Army Wing) | 13 |
| INA | NCC 'C' Certificate (Naval Wing) | 06 |
| AFA | NCC 'C' Certificate (Air Wing) | 03 |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
| Course | Qualification Required |
|---|---|
| IMA | Degree of a recognized University or equivalent |
| INA | Engineering Degree OR B.Sc. with Physics as core/elective and Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level |
| AFA | Degree with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 level OR Bachelor of Engineering |
| OTA (Men & Women) | Degree of a recognized University or equivalent |
Age Limit & Marital Status
| Course | Age Range | DOB Range |
|---|---|---|
| IMA | 19–24 years | 01 July 2003 to 01 July 2008 |
| INA | 19–24 years | 01 July 2003 to 01 July 2008 |
| AFA | 20–24 years | 01 July 2003 to 01 July 2007 |
| AFA (with CPL) | 20–26 years | 01 July 2001 to 01 July 2007 |
| OTA Men | 19–25 years | 01 July 2002 to 01 July 2008 |
| OTA Women | 19–25 years | 01 July 2002 to 01 July 2008 |
Marital Status Rules
| IMA / INA / OTA Men | Unmarried male candidates only |
| AFA | Below 25: Unmarried only. Above 25: Married eligible (no married accommodation during training) |
| OTA Women | Unmarried women, issueless widows (not remarried), issueless divorcees (not remarried) |
Age Relaxation
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot Licence holders (AFA) | Up to 26 years |
Nationality
A candidate must be: (a) a citizen of India, (b) a subject of Nepal, or (c) a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, or Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.
UPSC CDS II 2026 — Exam Pattern
Written Exam (Objective) + SSB Interview | IMA/INA/AFA: 300 Marks | OTA: 200 Marks
The UPSC CDS II 2026 written examination consists of objective type questions. For IMA, INA, and AFA, there are 3 papers (English, GK, Mathematics) carrying 300 marks over 6 hours. For OTA, there are 2 papers (English, GK) carrying 200 marks over 4 hours. Negative marking applies for wrong answers. GK and Mathematics papers are bilingual (Hindi and English).
Written Exam Pattern — IMA / INA / AFA
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Total | 300 | 6 Hours |
Written Exam Pattern — OTA (Men & Women)
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 100 | 2 Hours |
| Total | 200 | 4 Hours |
SSB Interview Marks
| Course | SSB Interview Marks |
|---|---|
| IMA | 300 |
| INA | 300 |
| AFA | 300 |
| OTA | 200 |
Exam Details
| Question Type | Objective Type (Multiple Choice) |
| Language | GK & Mathematics bilingual (Hindi and English) |
| Negative Marking | Yes — penalty for wrong answers (exact ratio not specified) |
| Written Exam Cutoff | To be decided by UPSC |
| SSB Qualifying Marks | To be decided by SSB |
| Face Authentication | Mandatory at examination venue |
| Entry Closing | 30 minutes before exam commencement — late entry NOT permitted |
UPSC CDS II 2026 — Training and Career Details
Permanent Commission (IMA/INA/AFA) | Short Service Commission (OTA)
Candidates selected through UPSC CDS II 2026 will be trained at their respective academies. IMA, INA, and AFA cadets receive Permanent Commission upon completion, while OTA cadets receive Short Service Commission. Specific pay scales and allowances are governed by the respective service rules. Candidates must not marry during training — violation leads to discharge and refund of training expenditure.
Course & Commission Details
| Academy | Commission Type | Training Start |
|---|---|---|
| IMA | Permanent Commission | July 2027 |
| INA | Permanent Commission | July 2027 |
| AFA | Permanent Commission | July 2027 |
| OTA (Men) | Short Service Commission | October 2027 |
| OTA (Women) | Short Service Commission | October 2027 |
Service Conditions
| Marriage During Training | Strictly prohibited — leads to discharge and refund of expenditure |
| AFA Married Accommodation | Not provided for candidates above 25 years who are married |
| Physical Fitness | Must meet standards in Appendix-III |
| Medical Standards | As per Appendix-III (height, weight, vision, chest) |
Pratibha Setu Portal
Non-recommended candidates' biodata may be shared with private companies, PSUs, and government organisations through the Pratibha Setu Portal — only with candidate consent. This provides alternative career opportunities for candidates who are not selected for defence services.
UPSC CDS II 2026 — Syllabus and How to Apply
Online Application at upsconline.nic.in | Three Papers for IMA/INA/AFA | Two Papers for OTA
The application for UPSC CDS II 2026 must be submitted online at upsconline.nic.in between 20 May and 09 June 2026. The written exam syllabus covers English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (for IMA/INA/AFA only). Candidates must upload a photograph, live photo, signature, and photo ID during the application process.
Syllabus Overview
| Subject | Topics |
|---|---|
| English | Understanding of English, workmanlike use of words |
| General Knowledge | Current events, everyday scientific observations, history of India, geography |
| Elementary Mathematics |
Arithmetic: Number system, integers, rational & real numbers, decimal fractions, time & distance, time & work, percentages, SI/CI, profit & loss, ratio & proportion, variation Number Theory: Division algorithm, prime/composite numbers, divisibility tests, HCF & LCM, Euclidean algorithm, logarithms Algebra: Basic operations, simple factors, remainder theorem |
How to Apply
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Visit upsconline.nic.in |
| Step 2 | Click on "Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026" |
| Step 3 | Complete Part-I Registration (basic details) |
| Step 4 | Complete Part-II Registration (educational, preference details) |
| Step 5 | Upload: Photograph, Live Photo Capture, Signature (3 times on white paper with black ink), Photo ID |
| Step 6 | Select exam centre preference (84 cities available) |
| Step 7 | Pay fee online (Rs. 200 for Gen/OBC/EWS males; Nil for Female/SC/ST) |
| Step 8 | Submit and download application printout |
Documents Required for Application
- Recent Passport-size Photograph
- Live Photograph (webcam capture during application)
- Signature — 3 times on white paper using black ink pen
- Valid Photo ID (Aadhaar / Voter ID / PAN / Passport / Driving License / Govt. issued ID)
- Educational qualification details
- NCC Certificate details (if applicable)
UPSC CDS II 2026 — Selection Process and Documents
Written Exam → SSB Interview (Stage-I & II) → Medical → Merit List → Training
The selection process for UPSC CDS II 2026 involves a written examination followed by SSB Interview (conducted in two stages), medical examination, and final merit list. Only candidates who clear the written exam are called for SSB Interview. The SSB process includes psychological aptitude tests, intelligence tests, and personality assessment.
Selection Stages
| Stage | Description | Nature |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Online Application Submission | Eligibility Check |
| 2 | Written Examination (Objective Type) | Marks-based (Merit) |
| 3 | Written Result Declaration | Screening |
| 4 | SSB Interview — Stage-I: Psychological Aptitude Test & Intelligence Test | Screening |
| 5 | SSB Interview — Stage-II: Remaining SSB Tests | Marks-based (Merit) |
| 6 | Medical Examination | Qualifying |
| 7 | Final Merit List & Training Academy Allotment | Merit |
Documents Required for SSB Verification
Mandatory Original Documents
- Matriculation Certificate (Date of Birth proof)
- Degree / Provisional Degree Certificate
- Mark Sheets (all semesters/years)
- Final Year Bonafide Certificate (if applicable)
- NCC Certificate (if applicable)
- NOC (for serving candidates)
- Photo Identity Proof
Acceptable Photo ID Proofs
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- PAN Card
- Passport
- Driving License
- Government-issued Photo ID
Warnings and Unfair Means
- Mobile phones, smart watches, Bluetooth devices, pen drives, programmable devices — strictly prohibited even in switched-off mode
- Impersonation, cheating, obscene writing, threatening staff — leads to permanent debarment and criminal prosecution
- Incomplete application, incorrect documents, false information — immediate rejection
- Candidates marrying during training will be discharged and must refund government expenditure
UPSC CDS II 2026 — Important Links
Official Links
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| UPSC Website | upsc.gov.in |
| Online Application | upsconline.nic.in |
| Notification PDF | Download PDF |
| Army Recruitment | joinindianarmy.nic.in |
| Navy Recruitment | joinindiannavy.gov.in |
| Email (UPSC) | upscsoap@nic.in |
| Email (Navy Officer) | officer@navy.gov.in |
Join Our Job Community
| Platform | Action |
|---|---|
| WhatsApp Channel | Join Channel |
| Telegram Channel | Join Channel |
| Facebook Page | Follow Page |
| Twitter / X | Follow Updates |
Helpline
Email: upscsoap@nic.in
Working Hours: 10:00 AM to 05:30 PM
Active Period: 20 May 2026 to 09 June 2026
UPSC CDS II 2026 — FAQs
UPSC CDS II 2026 is the Combined Defence Services Examination (II) conducted by UPSC for 451 vacancies in IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. Notification No. 11/2026-CDS-II. Exam on 13 September 2026. Written exam + SSB interview selection.
451 total vacancies: IMA (100), INA (26), AFA (32), OTA Men (275), OTA Women (18). NCC reserved: IMA (13), INA (6), AFA (3). Category-wise breakup not provided in notification.
Degree from recognized university for IMA/OTA. Engineering degree or B.Sc with Physics+Math for INA. Degree with Physics+Math at 10+2 for AFA. Age 19-25 years depending on course. Unmarried for IMA/INA/OTA.
IMA/INA/AFA: 3 papers (English, GK, Mathematics) — 300 marks, 6 hours. OTA: 2 papers (English, GK) — 200 marks, 4 hours. Objective type. Negative marking applies. GK & Math bilingual.
09 June 2026 (06:00 PM). Application started on 20 May 2026. Apply at upsconline.nic.in. No correction window — verify all details before submission. No withdrawal facility.
Rs. 200 for General/OBC/EWS males. Female candidates of all categories, SC, and ST are exempted (Nil). Online payment only. Non-refundable.
IMA/INA: 19-24 years. AFA: 20-24 years (26 with CPL). OTA: 19-25 years. DOB range varies by course. Only CPL holders get age relaxation for AFA.
Yes. Final year/semester students can apply. Must submit degree proof before deadlines: IMA/INA by 01 July 2027, AFA by 13 May 2027, OTA by 01 October 2027.
IMA/INA/OTA Men: Unmarried males only. AFA: Unmarried below 25; married above 25 allowed (no married accommodation). OTA Women: Unmarried women, issueless widows/divorcees not remarried.
Yes. There is a penalty (negative marking) for wrong answers in the written examination. The exact deduction ratio is not specified in the notification. Candidates should avoid guessing.
- RSSB Senior & Basic Computer Instructor Recruitment 2026 — 3951 Posts May 23, 2026
- Defence Services Staff College Wellington Group C Recruitment 2026 — 78 Posts May 22, 2026
- RPSC Lecturer Special Education 2026 for 121 Posts, Apply Online May 22, 2026
- AIIMS Patna Senior Resident Recruitment 2026 — 60 Posts May 22, 2026
- CSIR-NAL Project Staff Recruitment 2026 – 10 Posts via Walk-in Interview May 22, 2026
- RSSB Senior & Basic Computer Instructor Recruitment 2026 — 3951 Posts May 23, 2026
- Defence Services Staff College Wellington Group C Recruitment 2026 — 78 Posts May 22, 2026
- RPSC Lecturer Special Education 2026 for 121 Posts, Apply Online May 22, 2026
- AIIMS Patna Senior Resident Recruitment 2026 — 60 Posts May 22, 2026
- CSIR-NAL Project Staff Recruitment 2026 – 10 Posts via Walk-in Interview May 22, 2026
