CDS Application Form 2026: Dates, Steps to Apply, Registration Fee & Documents required

CDS Application Form 2026: The CDS Application Form is the first step for candidates aiming to join prestigious Indian Armed Forces academies, such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA). The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), conducts the CDS exam twice annually. As per the official notification released on May 20, the application process began on May 20, 2026, and will conclude on June 9, 2026. Candidates interested in applying for CDS II 2026 must complete the application process within the given timeline. The CDS 2 exam 2026 is scheduled to be held on September 13, 2026.

Eligible candidates can apply through the official UPSC website, upsconline.nic.in, by completing the registration form, filling in personal and academic details, selecting the desired academy, and uploading essential documents, including a recent photograph, signature, and valid ID proof. An application fee of INR 200 is applicable for general category candidates, while SC/ST candidates and female applicants are exempt from paying the fee. After submission, applicants should save a copy of the filled form and receipt for future reference. 

The CDS Exam attracts thousands of applicants each year, making it highly competitive. Candidates are tested on subjects like English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics, and successful candidates undergo further rigorous rounds before final selection. Last year, CDS 2 Registration began on May 28 and the last date to apply for the CDS 2 exam was June 17.

CDS Registration 2026 Dates 

The annual calendar released by UPSC outlines all essential dates for the CDS Exam 2026, helping candidates plan their preparation and application process. This schedule includes key registration dates, exam dates, and other deadlines for both CDS 1 and CDS 2. Candidates can refer to the table below for CDS 2 Registration Dates 2026, as well as other significant events leading up to the exam. 

CDS 2 Application Form 2026

The CDS 2 2026 application form released on May 20, 2026, along with the notification. The Union Public Service Commission will publish a detailed notification containing the details on the exam pattern, syllabus, eligibility, dates, and more. Students must thoroughly go through the notification in order to not miss out on any important information relevant for the exam.

CDS Application Form 2026: Steps to Apply

To apply for the CDS Exam 2026, candidates need to complete the online application process on the official UPSC website, upsc.gov.in. This application form is a critical step for those aiming to join esteemed institutions like the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA). Candidates should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and keep all necessary documents ready before beginning the application. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help candidates through the CDS Registration 2026:

• Go to upsc.gov.in, and navigate to the "Examination" section.
• Under the CDS Exam link, select "Apply Online" and complete the Part I registration by filling in personal details, educational background, and contact information. Candidates will also need to choose their preferred academy and exam centre.
• Upon submitting Part I details, a unique Registration ID and password will be generated, which candidates should save for future reference.
• Now, Log in using the Registration ID and password to access Part II of the application. Here, candidates need to upload a recent passport-sized photograph, signature, and valid ID proof as per UPSC guidelines.
• Next step includes paying the application fee. General and OBC category candidates must pay an application fee of INR 200, which can be paid online via credit/debit card or net banking. Female, SC, and ST candidates are exempt from this fee.
• After completing all steps, review the application form carefully, ensuring accuracy in all provided information. Submit the form and download the confirmation page for future reference.
• Candidates are advised to print a copy of the filled application form and payment receipt for their records.

CDS Application Fee 2026

UPSC has exempted female candidates along with SC and ST candidates from paying an application fee during CDS Registration 2026. Other candidates are required to pay INR 200/- to complete the application process.  

CDS Application Form 2026: Documents required 

To complete the CDS Application Form 2026, candidates must upload specific documents as part of the online application process. Candidates are advised to ensure that all documents meet the specified format and size requirements as outlined by UPSC to avoid issues during submission.

• Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: The photograph should be recent, clear, and in colour.
• Scanned Signature: The signature must be in ink, preferably black, and scanned in a clear, readable format.
• Valid Photo ID Proof: Accepted IDs include Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License.
• Educational Certificates: Details of educational qualifications, such as a graduation certificate, may be required for entering academic information.
• Caste Certificate (if applicable): SC/ST and OBC candidates must upload a caste certificate if they wish to claim category-based benefits.
• Disability Certificate (if applicable): Candidates applying under the disability category must provide a disability certificate from a recognized medical authority.