CDS 2 2026 Notification: Exam Date, Vacancies and How to Apply
UPSC released the CDS (2) 2026 notification on 20th May 2026 for graduates aspiring to join the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy and Officers Training Academy. Here is a complete breakdown for aspirants planning their application.
Important Dates
The CDS 2 2026 online application opened on 20th May 2026, with the deadline extended to 11th June 2026. The written examination will be conducted on 13th September 2026 across various centres in India.
Vacancies Across Academies
UPSC has announced 451 vacancies for CDS 2 2026, distributed across IMA, INA, AFA and OTA (including the SSC Women Non-Technical Course). OTA is open to both men and women, while IMA, INA and AFA remain open to male candidates only, as per current eligibility norms.
Eligibility Snapshot
Candidates must be graduates (or in the final year, subject to producing proof before the SSB) and must be unmarried for IMA, INA and AFA. Age limits vary by academy — broadly between 19 and 25 years — so it is important to check the exact birth-date range specified in the official notification for each academy.
Exam Pattern
IMA, INA and AFA candidates attempt three papers — English, General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics — each of two hours. OTA candidates attempt only English and General Knowledge, since OTA does not require Mathematics. Every paper carries objective-type questions with negative marking for wrong answers.
Preparation Strategy
Since CDS is a graduate-level exam, current affairs and general knowledge carry significant weight alongside English and Mathematics. Aspirants should build a daily reading habit, revise NCERT-level History, Geography and Polity, and start early practice for the SSB personality assessment alongside written preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eligibility for CDS 2026?
Candidates must be graduates (or in final year) and unmarried for IMA, INA and AFA. Age limits vary by academy, broadly between 19 and 25 years.
How many papers are there in CDS exam?
For IMA, INA and AFA: three papers — English, General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics. For OTA: only English and General Knowledge.
Which is better — NDA or CDS?
NDA is for Class 12 students and provides a 3-year joint training experience starting from an earlier age. CDS is for graduates and offers a shorter training period. Both are prestigious routes into the armed forces.
Which is the best CDS coaching in Lucknow?
Warriors Defence Academy in Lucknow provides dedicated CDS coaching with subject-wise classes, current affairs sessions, and integrated SSB preparation.
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