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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has extended the last date for submitting applications for the NDA-NA (National Defence Academy and Naval Academy) and CDS 2 (Combined Defence Services) Examinations. Candidates who missed the initial deadline now have another opportunity to apply. The new deadline to submit the online application is June 20, 2025, until 11:59 PM.
This update brings relief to thousands of aspirants who were unable to complete their applications earlier. Both examinations are among the most prestigious recruitment exams conducted by UPSC for entry into India’s defense services. NDA-NA exam allows admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA and Indian Naval Academy, while CDS 2 is for those aspiring to join the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers’ Training Academy.
Who Can Apply?
For NDA-NA II, male and female candidates who have passed or are appearing in Class 12 or equivalent examination can apply. For the CDS 2 exam, candidates must hold a graduate degree from a recognized university. Specific educational qualifications vary depending on the course and academy applied for.
Candidates must also meet physical and medical standards set by UPSC. It’s advised to carefully read the official notification for detailed eligibility criteria.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can submit their applications online through the official UPSC website https://upsconline.nic.in. No offline applications are accepted. It is important to fill in the correct details and upload required documents like photograph, signature, and valid ID proof.
Aspirants are encouraged not to wait until the last moment to apply, as the website may face heavy traffic closer to the deadline. Once the application is submitted successfully, candidates should take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.
Exam Date and Pattern
The NDA-NA II and CDS 2 examinations are scheduled to be conducted later this year. Both exams consist of written tests followed by SSB interviews for candidates who qualify. The written tests assess candidates’ aptitude in subjects like General Knowledge, English, and Mathematics.
Final Note
This extension is a valuable opportunity for those who missed the first deadline. Candidates should make use of this extended window to ensure their participation in these highly competitive and honorable examinations. Serving in the Indian Armed Forces is a dream for many, and this exam is a key step in that journey.
What Are NDA and CDS Exams?
The NDA and CDS exams are among the most competitive and prestigious national-level entrance exams conducted by UPSC for recruitment into the Indian Armed Forces.
- NDA-NA Exam: Offers admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Naval Academy. Candidates are selected for pre-commission training after clearing the exam and SSB interview.
- CDS Exam: Provides entry into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Air Force Academy (AFA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).
Both exams are conducted twice a year and serve as gateways for young individuals aspiring to serve the nation in a uniformed role.
