UPSC has released the CDS 2 2026 written result, easing an anxious week for defence aspirants. The roll-number merit list, issued on October 19, names 8,956 candidates shortlisted for SSB interviews. Successful candidates must now complete time-bound registration and documentation to secure their interview window and centre allocation.
Open the merit list PDF and use the Find function to search your roll quickly. Scan all academy sections—IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA—because a roll can appear in more than one list. If you spot anomalies or withheld mentions, note them and verify details before taking next steps.

UPSC CDS 2 2026 result: what’s out now
UPSC’s “What’s New” page now hosts the CDS 2 2026 written result as a roll-number list. No scores or cut-offs are released with this PDF; it only confirms SSB shortlisting. A separate name-wise list may follow, but selection decisions rely on the roll-number merit list published first.
SSB interview registration and centre choice: steps and documents
If Army (IMA or OTA) was your first preference, register on the Indian Army recruiting website within two weeks of the result to receive call-up details. Navy and Air Force candidates are contacted by their respective headquarters. Keep ready originals of age proof, degree, photo ID, and NCC “C” certificate, where applicable. Use the same email and mobile across portals.
IMA/INA/AFA/OTA selection flow after written result
Post-registration, candidates receive SSB intimation for two-stage testing, followed by medicals. Final allotment is merit-cum-preference across academies, subject to medical fitness and vacancies. Centre selection is enabled by the service headquarters; dates and venue unlock in batches, so monitor dashboards and email closely during the scheduling window.
Cut-off, marksheet and final merit: realistic timeline
UPSC releases answer keys, cut-offs, and marks only after SSB and the OTA final result. Mark-sheets usually go live within 15 days of the OTA final, remaining for 30 days. Last cycle’s CDS 2 saw answer keys and cut-offs posted in mid‑August, with marks of recommended candidates soon after. Expect a similar cadence.
Withheld or duplicate roll concerns: quick fixes
First, recheck all academy sections to rule out oversight. If your roll seems withheld, duplicated, or mismatched, capture screenshots and contact UPSC’s Facilitation Counter during working hours. Simultaneously, watch your service dashboard for status changes; backend reconciliations sometimes update without separate notifications.
| Issue | What to do now |
|---|---|
| Withheld tag | Call UPSC Facilitation; keep admit card, roll, and ID ready. |
| Duplicate roll appearance | Email screenshots; follow service HQ’s latest allotment. |
| SSB call not received | Confirm registration; monitor dashboard and inbox spam folders. |
Key takeaway for candidates: confirm your roll in the PDF, register promptly if Army was your first choice, and maintain documents for verification. The two‑week window from October 19 means completing Army registration by November 2, 2026. Track SSB scheduling actively and rely on official dashboards for status and updates.

