CDS 2 2026 Notification [Eligibility, Syllabus, Exam date, Books]

CDS 2 2026 Notification

The UPSC will release the CDS 2 2026 Notification on 20th May for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces as officers through the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is conducted twice every year and serves as one of the most sought-after defence entry exams in India.

Through this article, candidates can check complete details related to CDS 2 2026 including notification date, application form, exam date, eligibility criteria, vacancy details, syllabus, exam pattern, selection process, preparation tips, and the best books for exam preparation.

CONDITIONS OF ELIGIBILITY: 

(i) For Indian Military Academy — Unmarried male candidates born not earlier than 2nd July, 2003 and not later than 1st July, 2008 only are eligible.

(ii) For Indian Naval Academy — Unmarried male candidates born not earlier than 2nd July, 2003 and not later than 1st July, 2008 only are eligible.

(iii) For Air Force Academy — 20 to 24 years as on 1st July, 2027 i.e. born not earlier than 2nd July, 2003 and not later than 1st July, 2007 (Upper age limit for candidates holding valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (India) is relaxable upto 26 yrs. i.e. born not earlier than 2nd July, 2001 and not later than 1st July, 2007) only are eligible.

(iv) For Officers’ Training Academy — (SSC Course for men & women) unmarried candidates born not earlier than 2nd July, 2002 and not later than 1st July, 2008 only are eligible.

EDUCATION QUALIFICATION: 

(i) For I.M.A. and Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai — Degree of a recognised University or equivalent.

(ii) For Indian Naval Academy — Degree in Engineering from a recognised University/Institution.

(iii) For Air Force Academy — Degree of a recognised University (with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level) or Bachelor of Engineering.

VACANCIES:

1. Indian Military Academy, Dehradun— 163rd (DE) Course commencing in July, 2027  ——–  100 Vacancies.

2. Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala—Course commencing in July, 2027 Executive (General Service)/Hydro  ——— 26 Vacancies

3. Air Force Academy, Hyderabad—(Pre-Flying) Training Course commencing in July, 2027 i.e. No. 222 F(P) Course  ———  32 Vacancies.

4. Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (Madras)— 126th SSC (Men) Course (NT) commencing in October, 2027  ———  276 Vacancies

5. Officers Training Academy, Chennai—39th SSC Women (Non-Technical) Course commencing in October, 2027 ———  19 Vacancies

HOW TO APPLY:

(i) Candidates are required to apply Online using the link www.upsconline.nic.in

(ii) Detailed instructions for filling up Online Applications are available on the above mentioned website.

EXAM FEES:

Candidates (excepting Female/SC/ST candidates who are exempted from payment of fee) are required to pay a fee of Rs. 200/- (Rupees Two Hundred Only) either by depositing the money in any Branch of SBI by cash, or by using net banking facility of State Bank of India or by using Visa/Master/Rupay Credit/Debit Card.

HOW TO PREPARE:

Candidates preparing for CDS 2 2026 exam must refer Mission CDS Book. Number of direct questions have appeared from the book in the previous exam hence making it one of the most preferred book amongst CDS aspirants. Some of the salient features of the book are:

1) The book is based on the new syllabus and pattern of the examination as conducted by the UPSC.

2) English section contains English Grammar, Logics on spotting error, fill-ups, sentence improvement, approach to the ordering of sentence & jumble words. It also contains recently appeared new topics in English paper.

3) The English section has lots of practice exercises which make preparation easier and more effective.

4) General Knowledge section covers Both Indian and World Geography, ancient & medieval History including Independence era, Absolute description of Politics, civics and every important information on Indian Defence which is likely to be asked in your exams. In addition, it covers science section in detail which is extremely helpful for those from Non-science background.

5) The Book contains latest pattern 600+ most important MCQs with simple techniques and a huge collection of solved questions along with sample papers.

6) The Mission CDS book contains comprehensive coverage of maps to deepen geographical knowledge and awareness. 

For those looking to ace the CDS (OTA) exam. Look no further than the “CDS OTA Guide”. It is the go-to resource for the past 5 years. With its clear explanations, maps, ample practice questions, and proven track record, this book has helped countless aspirants secure success.

To further sharpen your preparation, don’t miss out on the CDS Countdown sample papers. These booklets are designed in the exact UPSC exam format, complete with OMR sheets to give you a real exam-like experience. Practicing with these will not only improve your speed and accuracy but also help you assess your readiness before the actual exam.

IMPORTANT DATES:

CDS (2) 2026 Notification : To Be Uploaded Soon