Aspirants preparing for the upcoming defense examinations can find all essential information regarding the UPSC CDS 2 2026 cycle right here. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this offline test offers an incredible opportunity to join prestigious branches including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) across a total of 451 vacancies.
CDS 2 Hall Ticket: Highlights
Before moving forward with the download procedures and exam timings, review the core highlights of the examination:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission |
| CDS 2 Admit Card 2026 | Expected by August End |
| Expected Release Date | Last Week of August 2026 |
| CDS 2 Exam Date 2026 | 13 September 2026 |
| Exam Mode | Offline |
| Total Vacancies | 451 |
| Admit Card Mode | Online |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
How to Download CDS 2 Admit Card 2026?
To obtain your hall ticket smoothly once it is published, follow these instructions step by step:
- Visit the official UPSC website.
- Go to the Examinations section.
- Click on the e-Admit Card option.
- Select Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026.
- Click on the CDS 2 Admit Card download link.
- Enter the required login details.
- Submit the details.
- The CDS 2 Hall Ticket 2026 will appear on the screen.
- Download the admit card.
- Take a printout and keep it safe for the examination day.
Details Mentioned on CDS 2 Hall Ticket 2026
Once you download your hall ticket, carefully check all printed elements for accuracy:
- Candidate’s name
- Roll number
- Registration number
- Photograph
- Signature
- Date of birth
- Examination date
- Examination centre
- Reporting time
- Paper details
- Examination instructions
If any discrepancy is found, candidates should immediately reach out to the authorities for rectification.
CDS 2 Exam Schedule & Timings
The written assessment will take place in an offline format on 13 September 2026 (Sunday). Review the breakdown of paper codes, dates, and times:
| Date | Indian Standard Time | Subject | Subject Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13.09.2026 (Sunday) | 09:00 AM to 11:00 AM | English | 11 |
| 13.09.2026 (Sunday) | 12:30 PM to 02:30 PM | General Knowledge | 12 |
| 13.09.2026 (Sunday) | 04:00 PM to 06:00 PM | Elementary Mathematics | 13 |
Documents Required for CDS 2 Exam 2026
On the day of the test, candidates must carry verified identification and credentials alongside their hall pass:
- CDS 2 Admit Card 2026
- Valid Photo ID Proof
- Photocopy of the Valid Photo ID Proof
- Passport-size Photographs
CDS 2 2026 Selection Process
Securing a position through this recruitment drive requires clearing successive evaluation stages:
- Written Examination
- SSB Interview/Personality Test
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List