The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially opened the online registration window for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Services (CDS) II 2026 examinations. Aspiring candidates can now submit their applications through the official UPSC website, upsc.gov.in. The deadline for submitting applications is March 15, 2025.
Vacancy Details
For the NDA II 2026 exam, a total of 400 vacancies have been announced. Of these, 370 vacancies are for the Army, 20 for the Navy, and 10 for the Air Force. The CDS II 2026 exam offers 442 vacancies across various academies: 200 for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), 32 for the Indian Naval Academy (INA), 32 for the Air Force Academy (AFA), and 178 for the Officers Training Academy (OTA). Combined, the two exams provide over 840 opportunities for young candidates seeking a career in the armed forces.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for the NDA exam must be unmarried male or female (for certain branches) and aged between 16.5 and 19.5 years. For CDS, the age limit varies by academy: 19 to 24 years for IMA, 19 to 22 years for INA, 20 to 24 years for AFA, and 19 to 25 years for OTA. Educational qualifications differ: NDA requires 10+2 or equivalent for Army and 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics for Navy and Air Force; CDS requires a bachelor's degree for most academies, with specific subject requirements for AFA and INA.
Examination Pattern
The NDA II 2026 exam will consist of a written test (Mathematics and General Ability Test) followed by an interview by the Services Selection Board (SSB). The CDS II 2026 exam includes a written test with papers on English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (for IMA, INA, AFA) or only English and General Knowledge (for OTA), followed by SSB interview. Both exams are highly competitive, and candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online at upsc.gov.in. The application process involves registration, filling personal and educational details, uploading documents, and paying the application fee. For NDA, the fee is Rs. 100 for general candidates, while SC/ST and female candidates are exempt. For CDS, the fee is Rs. 200 for general candidates, with exemptions for SC/ST and female candidates. Admit cards will be available for download before the exam date.
UPSC has urged candidates to read the official notification carefully before applying and to ensure they meet all eligibility criteria. The exams are scheduled to be held in September 2025, with exact dates to be announced on the UPSC website. With over 840 vacancies, this is a significant opportunity for those aspiring to serve the nation through the armed forces.
