The UPSC has launched a new application portal for online form submission for NDA-NA and CDS-2 examinations. The OTR system has been discontinued.
UPSC: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has implemented a significant change for the convenience of candidates. A new online application portal has been launched for applying to UPSC recruitment examinations. Candidates can now apply for examinations such as NDA-NA (National Defence Academy and Naval Academy) and CDS-2 (Combined Defence Services) through this portal. This new portal went live on May 28, 2025. Let's understand this news in detail.
What is the new portal and what changes have been made?
The UPSC's new online application portal is launched to simplify the application process for candidates. This portal is divided into four sections:
- Account Creation
- Universal Registration
- Common Application Form
- Examination Section
The information in the first three sections (Account Creation, Universal Registration, and Common Application Form) will be the same for all examinations and can be filled by candidates at any time. The fourth section, the Examination Section, allows candidates to view examination notices, apply for examinations, and check their application status. Applications for examinations can only be submitted after the notification is released.
This will provide significant relief to candidates as they will not need to repeatedly enter the same information. They can prepare in advance by uploading their information and documents, eliminating the need for last-minute rush.
Application Process for NDA-NA and CDS-2
Applications for the NDA-NA (II) 2025 and CDS (II) 2025 examinations can be submitted through the new UPSC portal. The notifications for both examinations were released on May 28, 2025, and the last date for application is June 17, 2025. Candidates are advised to complete their applications and document submissions before the deadline.
What about the old One Time Registration (OTR) system?
The UPSC has clarified that the old One Time Registration (OTR) system is no longer applicable. All candidates must now apply afresh and upload their documents on the new portal.
Aadhaar Card for Easier Identification
The UPSC advises candidates to use their Aadhaar card as an identification document. This will simplify the verification and authentication of identity and other documents. This record will then serve as a permanent and common basis for all examinations.
Who can apply for NDA-NA and CDS?
Eligibility for NDA-NA:
- The candidate must have passed the 12th class (Intermediate) examination from a recognized board/institution.
- For the Naval Academy (NA/10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme), Physics and Mathematics must be compulsory subjects in the 12th standard.
Eligibility for CDS:
- The candidate must possess a Bachelor's or Engineering degree from a recognized university or institution.
- Additionally, the candidate must fall within the specified age limit.
- Detailed eligibility information is provided in the UPSC notification, which candidates should carefully read.
How to Apply?
- First, visit the new UPSC portal at https://upsconline.nic.in.
- Create an account and complete the Universal Registration.
- Upload your personal information and documents in the Common Application Form.
- Apply for the examination through the link provided in the examination notification.
- After completing the application, take a printout and keep it safe.
Why is the new portal important?
The UPSC's new application portal is a significant improvement for candidates. It has made the application process more transparent and user-friendly. The hassle of repeatedly filling the same information has been eliminated. Candidates can save their details once and save time.
Don't Forget the Deadline
The last date for applying for NDA-NA (II) 2025 and CDS (II) 2025 is June 17, 2025. Candidates are advised not to wait until the last minute and complete the application process as soon as possible.
