The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the Combined Defence Services (CDS) II 2025 notification. Candidates aspiring to serve in the Indian Armed Forces—Army, Navy, Air Force, and Officers Training Academy—can now apply through the online application form available from May 28, 2025 to June 17, 2025 (up to 06:00 PM).
This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information regarding eligibility, important dates, vacancy details, application process, fee structure, and frequently asked questions. Interested candidates are encouraged to read the full article before applying.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Overview of UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2025
- Important Dates
- Application Fees
- Age Limit Criteria
- Educational Qualification
- Post-wise Vacancy Details
- How to Apply Online
- Useful Links
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Introduction
The Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS) is one of the most prestigious exams conducted by UPSC for recruitment into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). The UPSC CDS II 2025 notification has been released and aims to fill approximately 453 posts.
Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria must complete their applications before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
2. Overview of UPSC CDS II Recruitment 2025
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services (CDS) II 2025 |
| Total Vacancies | 453 Posts (Tentative) |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Location | All India |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in/ & https://upsconline.nic.in/ |
| Notification Release Date | 28 May 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 17 June 2025 (06:00 PM) |
| Exam Date | 14 September 2025 |
| Result Declaration | To be notified |
3. Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 28 May 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 17 June 2025 (till 06:00 PM) |
| Last Date to Pay Fees | 17 June 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | August 2025 (Tentative) |
| Exam Date | 14 September 2025 |
| Result Declaration | Notified Soon |
4. Application Fees
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC | Rs. 200/- |
| SC / ST | Nil |
| Female Candidates | Nil |
Mode of Payment:
- Online through Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
5. Age Limit Criteria (as on 01 January 2026)
| Minimum Age | Maximum Age | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| 19 Years | 25 Years | Varies depending on academy type |
Note: Age relaxation is available as per UPSC rules. Candidates are advised to read the full notification for exact date ranges and cut-offs for each post.
6. Educational Qualification
| Post / Academy | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy | Graduate Degree from a recognized University |
| Indian Naval Academy | Degree in Engineering from a recognized University |
| Air Force Academy | Degree with Physics & Maths at 10+2 level OR B.E./B.Tech |
| Officers Training Academy | Graduate Degree from a recognized University |
Appearing candidates are also eligible to apply, provided they can produce proof of qualification during the document verification stage.
7. Vacancy Details (Tentative)
| Academy | Total Posts |
|---|---|
| Indian Military Academy (IMA) | 100 |
| Indian Naval Academy (INA) | 26 |
| Air Force Academy (AFA) | 32 |
| Officers Training Academy (OTA) | 295 |
| Total | 453 |
8. How to Apply Online for UPSC CDS II 2025
Applicants must carefully follow the steps mentioned below:
- Visit the official UPSC portal: https://upsconline.nic.in
- Navigate to the “Online Application for Various Examinations” section.
- Click on the link for CDS II 2025.
- Register yourself if you are a new user, or log in if already registered.
- Fill in all required fields like Name, DOB, Email ID, Address, Educational Details, etc.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and documents as required.
- Make the payment online (if applicable).
- Re-check all details and click “Submit”.
- Save and print the confirmation page for future use.
9. Useful Important Links
| Action | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online Form | Click Here |
| Candidate Login | Click Here |
| Download Notification | Click Here |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in |
| Join Telegram Channel | Telegram |
| Join WhatsApp Channel |
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CDS II 2025?
✅ The last date to apply is 17 June 2025 till 06:00 PM.
Q2. When will the UPSC CDS II 2025 exam be conducted?
✅ The exam will be held on 14 September 2025.
Q3. What is the number of vacancies announced in UPSC CDS II 2025?
✅ A total of 453 vacancies have been announced (tentative).
Q4. What is the application fee for the CDS 2025 exam?
✅ General/OBC: Rs. 200/-
✅ SC/ST/Female: No Fees
Q5. What is the required qualification for the CDS exam?
✅ Graduation in any discipline; for INA and AFA, specific stream criteria apply.
Q6. How can I access the syllabus for UPSC CDS II 2025?
✅ The syllabus is provided in the official notification available on the UPSC website.
Q7. Can final-year students apply for CDS II 2025?
✅ Yes, candidates appearing in their final year can apply.
Q8. Is there any negative marking in the CDS exam?
✅ Yes, 1/3rd mark will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
Final Words
The UPSC CDS II 2025 is a golden opportunity for individuals who wish to serve in the Indian Armed Forces. With a total of 453 vacancies, this recruitment opens the door to a prestigious and disciplined career. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.
For more updates regarding Admit Cards, Answer Keys, Results, and Future Notifications, keep visiting: Govdunia.com
Disclaimer: Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification before applying for any post.
