The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the schedule for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (II) 2026. The written test is scheduled for Sunday, 13 September 2026, with the papers conducted in three shifts on the same day. Eligible candidates are expected to download their e-admit cards from the UPSC website before the exam.

The outlets report that the schedule includes paper-wise timings in Indian Standard Time (IST). According to the published timetable, English is scheduled for 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, General Knowledge from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and Elementary Mathematics from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Times of India also notes that candidates receive specific instructions on using the OMR sheet and the presence of negative marking.

NDTV adds operational details from the official notification, stating that entry to the examination venue closes 30 minutes before the examination begins. Across sources, candidates are advised to check the official UPSC website for complete shift/reporting information and to follow instructions listed on the admit card regarding reporting time and permitted items.