UPSC CDS 2 Exam 2026 is tomorrow; how will the country's biggest defence exam be conducted amidst the BRICS Summit?
UPSC CDS 2 Exam 2026: The Union Public Service Commission's Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam 2026 is scheduled for tomorrow, September 13. Lakhs of defence aspirants across the country are gearing up to take this exam, aiming to fulfill their dream of becoming officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Traffic restrictions are in place in Delhi due to VIP movements associated with the BRICS Summit 2026. Consequently, reaching the UPSC CDS 2 exam centers on time poses a major challenge for candidates.
Amidst the ongoing BRICS Summit 2026 in the capital, a plea made by a defence aspirant has yielded results. Acknowledging the candidates' difficulties, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced that metro services across all lines will commence at 6:00 AM on Sunday, September 13. This move will save time for thousands of candidates, allowing them to reach their exam centers well in advance without stress. Here are the essential rules and the schedule for the UPSC CDS 2 exam.
UPSC CDS 2 Exam 2026: Key Rules and Delhi Metro Update
Tomorrow, September 13, 2026 (Sunday), UPSC CDS 2 aspirants will appear for the exam at various centers across the country. However, reaching the centers located in Delhi will not be easy due to the BRICS Summit 2026. Therefore, the Delhi Metro has decided to provide a special facility for the candidates.
Delhi Metro's Early Service to Provide Relief
For candidates scheduled for the morning shift of the UPSC CDS 2 exam, reaching the center on time is a significant challenge. The situation is particularly difficult this time due to traffic restrictions imposed in Delhi for the BRICS Summit. Following an issue raised by an alert aspirant, the Delhi Police and DMRC coordinated to ensure that metro services on all lines begin at 6:00 AM on Sunday, September 13. Candidates can plan their routes accordingly and avail themselves of this facility.
**Exam Timing and Shift Rules**
UPSC is conducting this exam in offline pen-and-paper mode at 84 centers across the country. The exam will be held in three shifts (morning, afternoon, and evening). According to the rules, the exam center gates are closed exactly 30 minutes before the start of each session. Therefore, please arrive at the center at least 1 hour and 15 minutes before the reporting time. This will ensure that frisking, face authentication, and other necessary formalities can be completed on time.
**UPSC CDS 2 Exam Shifts** | **Subject** | **Exam Time** | **Reporting Time** | **Exam Duration**
First Shift | English | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | 8:30 AM | 2 Hours
Second Shift | General Knowledge | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM | 12:00 PM | 2 Hours
Third Shift | Elementary Mathematics | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | 3:30 PM | 2 Hours
**UPSC CDS 2 Exam Guidelines**
A printout of the e-admit card is mandatory to enter the UPSC CDS 2 exam hall. Additionally, you must carry an original photo ID proof (such as a PAN card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License). Use only a black ballpoint pen when filling out the answer sheet (OMR sheet). Circles marked with a pen of any other color will not be evaluated.
**What is prohibited inside the exam center?**
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has implemented strict rules to prevent cheating during the exam. Carrying mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, earphones, calculators, tablets, any electronic gadgets, books, notes, slips of paper, or cameras inside the exam hall is strictly banned. If a candidate is caught with any of these items, their candidature will be immediately cancelled. Carry only the necessary stationery and documents with you.
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