UPSC CDS 2 Exam 2026 Starts: Check Examination Details, Timings and Guidelines Here

The UPSC CDS 2 Exam 2026 is underway today, September 13, 2026, for candidates appearing in the Combined Defence Services Examination (II). The CDS 2 Shift 1 English Exam 2026 has started at 9 AM and is currently ongoing. Candidates can check the latest CDS 2 exam live updates, paper analysis, question paper, difficulty level and student reactions here.

The Combined Defence Services Examination 2026 is being conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA) and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). Candidates appearing for the CDS 2 Exam Today should follow all instructions mentioned on their e-Admit Card and complete the examination formalities as prescribed

UPSC CDS 2 Exam Date 2026

The CDS 2 exam date 2026 is September 13, 2026. The written examination will be conducted in offline pen-and-paper mode at designated examination centres.

The CDS 2 written exam 2026 will be conducted in three shifts. The English paper will be held from 9 AM to 11 AM, General Knowledge from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and Elementary Mathematics from 4 PM to 6 PM. Candidates should check the reporting instructions given on their individual admit cards before reaching the examination centre.

CDS 2 Exam 2026: Key Details

The following table covers the major details candidates should know before appearing for the UPSC CDS 2 examination 2026.

The CDS 2 examination will assess candidates through objective-type questions. Negative marking is applicable for incorrect answers, making accuracy particularly important during the written test.

CDS 2 Exam Timings 2026

The CDS 2 exam timings 2026 vary according to the paper. Candidates appearing for IMA, INA and AFA have three papers, while OTA candidates appear for English and General Knowledge.

Candidates should reach the CDS 2 exam centre 2026 according to the reporting and entry instructions mentioned on their admit card. They should avoid waiting until the last minute to reach the venue.

CDS 2 Exam Pattern 2026

The CDS 2 exam pattern 2026 differs for IMA, INA, AFA and OTA. Candidates appearing for IMA, INA and AFA have to attempt English, General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics, while OTA candidates have only English and General Knowledge. Candidates can check the detailed CDS Exam Pattern 2026 for the paper-wise structure, marking scheme and duration.

For IMA, INA and AFA, each paper carries 100 marks, making the total written examination 300 marks. For OTA, the two papers carry 100 marks each, making the written examination 200 marks. Each paper has a duration of two hours. The question papers are objective in nature. General Knowledge and Elementary Mathematics are available in Hindi and English, while the English paper is conducted in English.

CDS 2 Exam 2026: Marking Scheme

The CDS 2 marking scheme 2026 includes negative marking for incorrect answers. One-third of the marks assigned to a question is deducted for every wrong response. There is no penalty for questions left unanswered. Candidates should therefore avoid making random guesses and focus on maintaining accuracy throughout the CDS 2 written examination.

CDS 2 Eligibility and Academy Details

The CDS 2 2026 examination provides entry to IMA, INA, AFA and OTA, subject to the eligibility conditions held by UPSC.

Candidates can check the detailed CDS Eligibility Criteria 2026 for academy-wise age limits, educational qualifications and other requirements.

For CDS 2, the broad age requirements are 19–24 years for IMA and INA, 20–24 years for AFA and 19–25 years for OTA, subject to the conditions specified in the UPSC notification.

CDS 2 Exam Day Guidelines 2026

Candidates appearing for the CDS 2 exam on September 13 should carry a printed copy of their e-Admit Card along with the required photo identity proof.

A black ballpoint pen should be carried for marking answers on the OMR sheet. Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, cameras, pagers and other prohibited electronic items are not allowed inside the examination venue. Candidates should also carefully follow the instructions given by the invigilator and ensure that they do not carry any restricted item into the examination hall.

CDS 2 Selection Process 2026

The CDS 2 selection process 2026 begins with the written examination. Candidates who qualify the written test are shortlisted for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, subject to the applicable academy and eligibility requirements.

The SSB stage assesses candidates on personality, intelligence, communication, leadership and other officer-like qualities. Candidates who qualify the required stages are considered further according to the applicable medical, merit and vacancy conditions.

CDS 2 Exam 2026 FAQs