UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Registration Begins at upsconline.nic.in, Apply by June 9

UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Registration Begins at upsconline.nic.in, Apply Online Till June 9 marks an important update for defence job aspirants across the country. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially activated the online application window for Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2 and National Defence Academy (NDA) 2 examinations 2026. Candidates who are interested in joining the Indian Armed Forces can now submit their applications through the official UPSC online portal. The registration process will remain open till June 9, 2026, after which no applications will be accepted. The notification provides complete details regarding eligibility criteria, age limit, application fee, and selection procedure for both examinations, which are among the most prestigious defence entry routes in India.

UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Registration Process and Official Application Window

The UPSC has opened the application process for both CDS 2 and NDA 2 2026 in online mode only. Aspirants must complete the registration process through the official website and submit all required details before the deadline. The application process includes One Time Registration (OTR), filling personal and academic details, uploading documents, and paying the required fee. Candidates are advised to complete the application process early to avoid technical issues during the final days.

Key registration highlights:

• Application mode: Online only
• Official portal: upsconline.nic.in
• Exams covered: CDS 2 2026 and NDA 2 2026
• Last date to apply: June 9, 2026
• Selection stages: Written exam, SSB interview, medical test

UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Eligibility Criteria for Candidates

The eligibility criteria for CDS and NDA differ based on education level and age requirements. Candidates must carefully check the official notification before applying for the respective exam.

For NDA 2 2026:

• Educational qualification: Class 12 passed or appearing candidates
• Age limit: Typically 16.5 to 19.5 years
• Gender: Male and female candidates eligible

For CDS 2 2026:

• Educational qualification: Graduation required
• Age limit: Varies between 19 to 25 years depending on academy
• Applicable academies: IMA, INA, AFA, OTA

UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Application Fee Details

The application fee for UPSC CDS and NDA examinations is uniform for most categories, with exemptions for reserved categories. The payment can be made online using debit card, credit card, or net banking through the UPSC portal.

Fee structure includes:

• General/OBC candidates: INR 200
• SC/ST/Female candidates: Exempted from fee

UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Selection Process and Exam Pattern

The selection process for both CDS and NDA exams is conducted in multiple stages to ensure merit-based recruitment. For NDA, candidates selected after a written test appear for SSB interviews conducted by the armed forces. CDS selection follows a similar structure for officer training academies.

Selection stages include:

• Written Examination
• SSB Interview (Service Selection Board)
• Medical Examination
• Final merit list preparation

UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Important Instructions for Applicants

Applicants must follow important guidelines while filling the form to avoid rejection. Incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected by UPSC. Key instructions include:

• Use valid email ID and mobile number
• Upload clear scanned documents
• Verify details before final submission
• Keep printed copy of application form

UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Importance for Defence Aspirants

The CDS and NDA examinations are among the most sought-after defence recruitment exams in India, offering direct entry into officer-level positions in the Indian Armed Forces. Key benefits include:

• Opportunity to join Indian Army, Navy, Air Force
• Officer-level career with training academies
• High salary and career growth
• National service opportunity

UPSC CDS NDA 2 2026 Registration FAQs