The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will conduct the National Defence Academy & Naval Academy Examination (II), 2026 and the Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026 on the same day — 13 September 2026 (Sunday). Both exams are major opportunities for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces as officers.
As of late August 2026, the e-admit cards (hall tickets) have not yet been released. Based on the official pattern stated in UPSC notifications, eligible candidates will receive their e-Admit Cards on the last working day of the week preceding the examination. This typically places the expected release window in the first week of September 2026 (around 3–5 September 2026, or 8–10 days before the exam). Candidates are strongly advised to monitor the official website regularly.
This comprehensive guide covers the expected admit card release date, step-by-step download process, exam schedules, documents required, exam-day guidelines, and other essential details for both NDA II and CDS II 2026.
Important Dates for UPSC NDA II & CDS II 2026
| Event | NDA II 2026 | CDS II 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Notification Release | 20 May 2026 | 20 May 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 20 May 2026 | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 11 June 2026 (6:00 PM) | 11 June 2026 (6:00 PM) |
| Exam Date | 13 September 2026 (Sunday) | 13 September 2026 (Sunday) |
| Expected Admit Card Release | 1st week of September 2026 (tentative) | 1st week of September 2026 (tentative) |
| Written Exam Result (Expected) | October–November 2026 | October–November 2026 |
Note: Exact admit card release dates are not announced in advance. UPSC releases them online only; no hard copy is sent by post or email.
Vacancies Overview
- NDA & NA II 2026: Approximately 394 vacancies (Army, Navy, Air Force wings of NDA + Naval Academy 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme), including seats for both male and female candidates.
- CDS II 2026: Around 450+ vacancies across Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).
How to Download UPSC NDA II & CDS II 2026 Admit Card
follow these simple steps on the official UPSC portal:
Step 1. Visit the official UPSC website: https://www.upsc.gov.in or the online application portal https://upsconline.nic.in.
Step 2. On the homepage, click on the “Admit Cards” or “e-Admit Card” section.
Step 3. Select the relevant link:
- “National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (II), 2026” or
- “Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026”.
Step 4. Enter your Registration Number / Roll Number and Date of Birth (as filled in the application form).
Step 5. Complete the captcha verification and submit.
Step 6.Your e-Admit Card will appear on the screen. Download the PDF and take at least 2–3 clear printouts (preferably in colour or high-quality black & white).
Step 7. Carefully verify all details mentioned on the admit card.
Direct links (will become active only after release): Keep checking the official UPSC website under the Examinations / Admit Cards section.
Credentials required: Registration Number/Roll Number + Date of Birth. Keep your application form and email/SMS notifications handy.
Details Mentioned on the Admit Card
The e-Admit Card typically includes:
- Candidate’s name, roll number, photograph, and signature
- Father’s/Mother’s name
- Exam centre name, address, and code
- Date and shift-wise timings
- Subject codes
- Important instructions and reporting time
- Space for invigilator’s signature
Action required: Cross-check every detail immediately after downloading. In case of any discrepancy (name, photo, centre, etc.), contact the UPSC Facilitation Counter or write to the official email mentioned on the website without delay.
Exam Schedule & Timings (13 September 2026)
NDA II 2026 (Two papers):
- Mathematics (Paper I): 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- General Ability Test (GAT) (Paper II): 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
CDS II 2026 (Three papers; OTA candidates appear only for English + GK):
English: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
General Knowledge: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Elementary Mathematics: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Candidates must report to the centre well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card. Entry usually closes 30 minutes before the start of each session. Late entry is not permitted.
Documents to Carry on Exam Day
- Printed copy of the e-Admit Card (mandatory)
- One original valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving Licence, or PAN Card)
- Two recent passport-size photographs (same as uploaded in the application, in case required)
- Ballpoint pen (black/blue) as specified
Prohibited items: Mobile phones, smart watches, calculators, electronic gadgets, study material, bags, etc. Strict frisking and biometric/face authentication may be conducted.
Exam Day Guidelines & Important Instructions
- Reach the examination centre at least 60–90 minutes early.
- Read the “Important Instructions to Candidates” carefully (available with the admit card).
- No candidate will be allowed entry without the admit card and valid photo ID.
- Maintain discipline; any unfair means will lead to cancellation of candidature.
- Keep the admit card safely until the entire selection process (including SSB and medical) is over.
What to Do If You Face Issues
- Unable to download: Clear browser cache, try a different browser/device, or check after some time (high traffic is common on release day).
- Discrepancy in details: Immediately contact UPSC through the official facilitation counter or email provided on upsc.gov.in.
- Forgot registration number: Use the “Forgot Registration ID” option on the UPSC online portal or check your registered email/SMS.
Selection Process Reminder
Both exams follow a multi-stage process:
- Written Examination (objective type, OMR-based)
- SSB Interview (Intelligence & Personality Test)
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Negative marking applies (usually 1/3rd of the marks allotted to a question).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will the UPSC NDA II & CDS II 2026 admit cards be released?
Expected in the first week of September 2026 (last working day of the preceding week of 13 September).
Q2. Is the admit card released separately for NDA and CDS?
Yes. Download the correct one corresponding to the exam you applied for.
Q3. Can I get the admit card by post?
No. It is available only in e-Admit Card format for download from the official website.
Q4. What if my photograph is not clear on the admit card?
Contact UPSC immediately with supporting documents.
Q5. Official website for download?
https://www.upsc.gov.in or https://upsconline.nic.in
Final Tips for Candidates
Stay updated only through the official UPSC website. Avoid unofficial links or third-party sites promising early access. Prepare your stationery, ID proofs, and travel plan to the exam centre in advance. Use the remaining time for focused revision of Mathematics, English, GK, and current affairs.
All the best to every aspirant appearing for UPSC NDA II 2026 and CDS II 2026! Download your admit card as soon as it is released, double-check the details, and appear with confidence.
Stay tuned to the official UPSC portal for the latest updates on admit card, exam instructions, and results.
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