UPSC CDS 2 2026: Application Deadline Extended to June 11 – Apply Now

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced an extension for the CDS 2 2026 application window. Prospective candidates aiming for a career in the nation's premier defence academies now have until 11th June 2026 to submit their forms. With 451 vacancies up for grabs, this is a critical opportunity for graduates to join the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or the Officers' Training Academy (OTA).

Key Examination Timeline

Understanding the schedule is vital for effective preparation. You can Check CDS 2 Notification 2026: 451 Vacancies Announced to review the comprehensive details.

Events	Dates
CDS 2 Notification 2026	20th May 2026
CDS 2 Application Form Starts	20th May 2026
Registration Last Date	11th June 2026
CDS 2 Exam Date 2026	13th September 2026

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the CDS II 2026, candidates must be Indian citizens or eligible subjects of Bhutan, Nepal, or Tibetan refugees. Applicants must hold a graduate degree and be unmarried, with an age requirement between 19 and 25 years.

Steps to Fill CDS 2 Application Form 2026

1. Complete OTR Registration: Visit www.upsc.gov.in, navigate to Examination >> Active Examinations >> Combined Defense Services Examination (II), 2026.
2. Click on One-Time Registration (OTR) for Examination.
3. Register on the OTR portal by clicking the New Registration button and filling in your details.
4. Verify the OTR registration by logging in with Email ID, Mobile number, or OTR ID.
5. Fill out Application Form: Log in using your email ID/mobile/OTR ID and OTP/password.
6. Enter required information, create a new password, and click submit.
7. Read instructions carefully and click 'Yes' to proceed.
8. Submit application by filling in educational qualifications, address, etc.
9. Upload scanned documents and select preferences.
10. Fee Payment and Final Submission: Pay the required application fee.
11. Select the desired examination center.
12. Review all details, click 'Submit', and download a copy of the application for future reference.

Apply Online: CDS 2 Application Form 2026 (Link Active)

Required Documents and Details

Documents and File Requirements

• Photograph: 20-300 KB, JPG format
• Signature: 20-300 KB, JPG format
• Photo Identity Document (PID): 20-300 KB, PDF format

Documents	File Size and Format	Format
Photograph	20 to 300 KB	JPG format
Signature	20 to 300 KB	JPG format
Photo Identity Document (PID)	20 to 300 KB	PDF format

Details Required to Enter CDS 2 Application Form 2026

• Applicant Full Name, Gender, and Date of Birth
• Father's Name and Mother's Name
• Minority Status and Community
• Valid Mobile Number and Alternate Mobile Number
• Valid Email ID and Alternate Email ID
• Board Examination Roll No. (Class X)
• Security Questions, Nationality, Educational Qualification, and Address

Next Steps

Once your application is submitted, save the confirmation page. Monitor the official UPSC website for admit card release dates, which usually precede the 13th September 2026 exam date by a few weeks. Ensure your identification documents match your application details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the last date to fill the application form for CDS 2 2026?

The final date to submit the CDS 2 2026 application form has been extended to 11th June 2026.

Q2. How can I apply online for CDS 2 2026?

Candidates can submit their applications via the official UPSC website or by using the direct link provided in this guide.

Q3. When is the CDS 2 2026 exam scheduled?

The CDS 2 2026 examination is officially scheduled to be held on 13th September 2026.

Q4. What is the selection process for CDS 2 2026?

The selection involves a written examination followed by SSB interviews for successful candidates.