The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), serves as the gateway for aspiring candidates to join India's premier military training academies. With two examinations held annually, the CDS 2 2026 cycle offers a prestigious opportunity for graduates to embark on a career in defense.
Important Update: Exam Schedule and Vacancies
The UPSC has scheduled the CDS 2026 exams for April and September. Aspirants should note that the CDS 2 Notification 2026 Released for 451 Vacancies – Click Here for Details regarding the second cycle. Candidates in their final year of graduation are eligible to apply, provided they have no backlogs and can submit their final degree certificate at the time of course commencement.
Key Eligibility Factors
Before applying, candidates must evaluate their credentials against the following core requirements:
- Citizenship/Nationality
- Educational Qualification
- Age Limit
- Marital Status
- Gender
Nationality Categories
Eligibility is extended to the following groups (valid certificates from the Government of India are required for non-citizens, excluding Nepalese Gorkhas):
- Citizen of India
- Subject of Nepal
- Subject of Bhutan
- Refugees from Tibet (settled before Jan 1, 1962)
- Indian origin migrants from Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zaire, Zambia, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Burma, Uganda, and Vietnam
Age Limits and Marital Status
Age and date of birth details are strictly verified and cannot be changed at any recruitment stage. Please refer to the table below for academy-specific criteria:
| Academy | Age Limit | Marital Status |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 19 – 24 Years | Unmarried |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 19 - 22 Years | Unmarried |
| Air Force Academy | 19 - 23 Years | <25 years unmarried or >25 years both married and unmarried. |
| Officers’ Training Academy (SSC Women Non-Technical) | 19 - 25 Years | Unmarried females, issueless widows, and issueless divorcees. |
| Officers’ Training Academy (SSC Course for Men) | 19 - 25 Years | Unmarried |
Academic Requirements
Educational standards vary based on the chosen branch. Ensure your qualifications align with the following:
| Academy | Education Qualification |
|---|---|
| IMA and OTA | Bachelor’s Degree from a recognised university |
| INA | Bachelors in Engineering from a recognised University |
| AFA | Graduation with Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level or B.E./B.Tech degree. |
Selection Process and Next Steps
The selection process consists of a rigorous written examination, followed by the Service Selection Board (SSB) interview. Note that document verification occurs only after the personality test. Male divorcee applicants are not considered unmarried and remain ineligible. Remember: marriage is strictly prohibited during the entire training period. After verifying your eligibility and successfully registering, monitor the UPSC portal for admit card release dates and begin your physical fitness and aptitude training immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Recommended Reads
- WBPSC ICDS Form Fill Up 2026: Apply Online for 16,000 Vacancies
- UPSC CDS 2 2026 Notification Out for 451 Vacancies: Exam Date & Details
- UPSC CDS 2 Exam Date 2026: Schedule, Shift Timings & Admit Card Guide
- UPSC CDS 2 2026: Application Deadline Extended to June 11 – Apply Now
- UPSC CDS 2026: Complete Exam Pattern, Syllabus, and Preparation Guide
- UPSC CDS 1 Result 2026: Expected Date, Merit List, and Selection Process
Age & Eligibility Calculator for Exams
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