Union Public Service Commission CDS II Answer Key 2026 Out - Download Provisional Key and Raise Objections at upsc.gov.in

UPSC CDS II Answer Key 2026 Overview

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the provisional answer key for the Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026. Aspirants who appeared for the written examination held on 13 September 2026 can now verify their responses, cross-check answer booklets, and calculate their estimated scores.

Candidates looking for broader career opportunities can also review active openings such as the UPSC Recruitment 2026 Notification Out for 212 Specialist, Assistant Professor and Law Posts recruitment details for administrative and specialized officer roles.

Eligibility and Age Criteria for CDS II 2026

The Combined Defence Services examination recruits eligible candidates into prestigious military academies under Group A officer cadres. Meeting the strict educational and age parameters is mandatory for final selection.

• Indian Military Academy (IMA) & Officers Training Academy (OTA): Graduation from a recognized university.
• Indian Naval Academy (INA): Engineering degree from a recognized university/institution.
• Air Force Academy: Graduation with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E./B.Tech) degree.
• Age Limits: 20 to 24 years depending on the specific academy choice, aligned with the official advertisement criteria.

Exam Structure and Marking Scheme

The written examination comprised objective-type questions divided across specific papers based on the candidate's academy preferences. Understanding the structure helps candidates accurately analyze the provisional answer key.

• English Paper: 100 Marks (Testing comprehensive language skills).
• General Knowledge Paper: 100 Marks (Covering current events, history, science, and general awareness).
• Elementary Mathematics: 100 Marks (Applicable for IMA, INA, and AFA aspirants).

Selection Stages

The recruitment process for the Combined Defence Services involves a multi-tier evaluation designed to test mental acuity, leadership potential, and physical fitness.

• Stage 1: Written Examination (Conducted across designated centres nationwide).
• Stage 2: SSB Interview (Intelligence and Personality Test administered by the Services Selection Board).
• Stage 3: Medical Examination (Comprehensive fitness assessment for military service).

How to Download the CDS 2 Provisional Answer Key 2026

Candidates can access and download the official answer key documents by adhering to these simple online steps:

• Step 1: Visit the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in.
• Step 2: Go to the 'What's New' section or open the 'Examinations' tab on the homepage.
• Step 3: Click on the link for the Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026 Provisional Answer Key.
• Step 4: Download the PDF files corresponding to your respective paper (English, GK, or Mathematics) and booklet series (A, B, C, or D).
• Step 5: Compare your recorded answers with the official keys to estimate your score.

Procedure to Raise Objections

Aspirants who find discrepancies in the provisional keys can challenge them through official channels before the designated deadline.

• Log in to the Question Paper Representation Portal (QPRep) available at upsconline.nic.in using your Roll Number and Date of Birth.
• Submit documentary proof or standard textbook references supporting your challenge.
• Ensure all representations are submitted online before 20 September 2026 at 6:00 PM. Email or postal submissions are not accepted.

Candidate Advisory & Important Warnings

Important Links & Official Resources

• Direct Link to Download CDS 2 Answer Key 2026: Access Provisional Answer Key PDF
• UPSC Official Portal: Visit upsc.gov.in