UPSC opens CDS II and NDA II 2026 application process; eligible candidates can apply online now
UPSC Starts CDS II and NDA II 2026 Registration Process
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially opened the online application process for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination II, 2026 and the National Defence Academy & Naval Academy (NDA/NA) Examination II, 2026.
Eligible candidates interested in joining the Indian Armed Forces can now submit applications through the official UPSC online portal.
The registration process started on May 20, 2026 and will remain open till June 9, 2026 at 6 PM.
Main Official Application Portal
UPSC CDS II & NDA II 2026 Apply Online
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | May 20, 2026 |
| Application Start Date | May 20, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 9, 2026 (6 PM) |
| Written Examination Date | September 13, 2026 |
Candidates are advised to complete the application process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Vacancy Details
| Examination | Approximate Vacancies |
|---|---|
| CDS II 2026 | 451 Posts |
| NDA & NA II 2026 | 394 Posts |
The recruitment process will provide opportunities across Army, Navy, Air Force and Officers Training Academy programmes.
Eligibility Criteria
| Exam | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|
| NDA II 2026 | Class 12 pass or appearing candidates |
| CDS II 2026 | Graduation degree from recognised university |
Detailed age limits, physical standards and service-specific eligibility conditions are available in the official notification.
Application Fee Details
| Examination | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| CDS II 2026 | ₹200 |
| NDA II 2026 | ₹100 |
| Female / SC / ST Candidates | Fee Exempted (as applicable) |
Application fees can be paid through online payment methods available on the UPSC portal.
How to Apply Online
| Step | Process |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Visit the UPSC online application portal |
| Step 2 | Complete One Time Registration (OTR) if not already registered |
| Step 3 | Login using registered credentials |
| Step 4 | Select CDS II or NDA II examination |
| Step 5 | Fill details, upload documents and submit application |
Candidates should keep educational documents, identity proof, photograph and signature files ready before applying.
Selection Process
| Stage | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Written Examination | Initial screening |
| SSB Interview | Personality and aptitude assessment |
| Medical Examination | Fitness verification |
| Final Merit List | Selection confirmation |
Candidates must qualify all stages successfully for final selection.
UPSC OTR System Mandatory for Applications
UPSC has made One Time Registration (OTR) mandatory for candidates applying through the online portal.
Once registered, applicants can use the same OTR profile for future UPSC examinations without repeatedly entering personal details.
Honestly, CDS and NDA remain among the most popular defence examinations because they offer direct pathways into officer-level careers in the Indian Armed Forces.
Candidates Advised to Read Notification Carefully
Applicants should carefully read the official notification before submitting forms to understand eligibility conditions, examination patterns, medical standards and service-specific requirements.
For now, eligible candidates can apply online for UPSC CDS II and NDA II 2026 through the official UPSC portal before June 9, 2026.
Written by
Palak PatelEducation writer Palak Patel covers the latest education news, board exam updates, results, and career opportunities.