CDS II 2026 Notification Released: 451 Vacancies Across IMA, INA, AFA and OTA

UPSC CDS 2 2026 Notification has been released. This is a big news for those students who are interested in joining Indian Army, Navy or Air Force as an officer. CDS is an acronym for Combined Defence Services. It is one of the most sought after defence exams in India. 

A total of 451 vacancies have been announced in four academies of the CDS II 2026 – Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). This is the opportunity for you to wear a uniform and serve the nation, if that's what you've always wanted to do.

CDS II 2026 Vacancy Details

The following table indicates the number of seats available in each academy:

OTA has the most number of vacancies 287. It is also, the only academy, where female candidates are allowed to apply as Short Service Commission (SSC) entry.

CDS Eligibility 2026 – Who Can Apply?

It is essential to carefully review the CDS eligibility 2026 before preparing for the CDS exam. Without being eligible, your application will be rejected.

In layman's terms, you should have a graduate degree, be an Indian citizen and be within the age limits. Your graduation subject is to be Physics and Mathematics at degree level for INA and AFA.

How to Apply for CDS II 2026

All applications are made online. The candidate has to fill up the online application form available in the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in. The application window usually stays open for about 3 weeks after the notification is released. There is an application fee of Rs. 200. SC/ST candidates and women are exempted from fee. 

Be sure to include a legible photo and signature. Be careful to double-check all information before submission as it is hard to change once submitted.

CDS Exam Pattern

The CDS written test consists of three papers in English, General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics for IMA, INA and AFA. They are 2 hours in length and 100 marks each. Only two papers (English and General Knowledge) are offered for OTA. Negative marking of 1/3 mark for every wrong answer, do not guess blindly.

Best CDS Books and CDS Exam Preparation Book

Selecting the right books is really crucial. A lot of students use incorrect study material. These are the best books to use:

Tips for Preparation

Begin at the beginning. When preparing for the first time, do not go straight to difficult questions. Read your NCERT books for Maths and GK first. Next, work on the advanced CDS books. 

Reading is not as important as practice. Solve questions from a previous year paper book of CDS maths for 1 hour daily. In English read a newspaper every day and learn grammar rules. Use CDS GS PYQ book and update current affairs weekly for General Studies. 

Take 5-6 full mock tests prior to the exam. This will help you to learn how to manage your time better and get used to the negative marking scheme.

Recommended CDS Books and Study Materials

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