Dehradun UPSC CDS NDA Exams: Centres, Timings and Candidate Guide
Dehradun will host UPSC CDS, NDA and NA exams on 13 September 2026 across 54 centres, with timings, candidate numbers and preparation guidance.
Dehradun will host the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Combined Defence Services (CDS), National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) examinations on 13 September 2026. The exams will take place across 54 centres in the district.
A total of 21,798 candidates are expected to appear. This includes 8,001 candidates for the CDS examination and 13,797 candidates for the NDA and NA examination. With thousands of students reaching exam centres on the same day, candidates should plan their travel and reporting time with care.
Exam timings in Dehradun
The CDS examination will be held in three shifts. Candidates should check their admit cards for their assigned centre and paper details.
| Examination | Shift | Time |
|---|---|---|
| CDS | First shift | 9:00 am to 11:00 am |
| CDS | Second shift | 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm |
| CDS | Third shift | 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm |
| NDA and NA | First shift | 10:00 am to 12:30 pm |
| NDA and NA | Second shift | 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm |
District administration reviews arrangements
Additional District Magistrate K.K. Mishra held a meeting with sector magistrates and exam centre superintendents to review preparations. Officials were told to follow the UPSC guidelines and exam standards without any gap.
The administration has asked each centre to complete a physical inspection one day before the examination. This check will cover the basic arrangements needed for the smooth conduct of the test. Centre officials must also confirm the details and number of sealed boxes received from the authorities within the given time.
These steps form part of the district plan to conduct the examinations in a peaceful and orderly manner. Security, document handling and centre management will need close attention because several shifts will run through the day.
What candidates should check before leaving
- Download and read the UPSC admit card before exam day.
- Confirm the name and location of the assigned examination centre.
- Check the reporting time and shift mentioned on the admit card.
- Carry the required photo identity proof and other documents listed by UPSC.
- Keep the admit card safe and carry a clear printed copy if required.
- Plan the route in advance, especially if the centre is outside the main city area.
- Reach early to allow time for traffic, entry checks and finding the room.
Candidates appearing for more than one paper should pay close attention to the gap between shifts. The CDS exam has three papers in one day, while the NDA and NA exam has two shifts. A watch, water and a simple meal can help, but candidates should carry only items allowed under the UPSC instructions. Exam centres are not the right place for a last-minute bag of mystery gadgets.
Why the exam schedule matters
The different shift timings mean that roads near examination centres may remain busy from morning until evening. Candidates and their family members should avoid waiting near the gate after drop-off. This can help keep entry and exit areas clear.
Students should also avoid relying on a phone for directions at the last moment. Save the centre address, check the route and keep a backup plan. A small delay at home can become a large delay near a busy exam centre.
The CDS exam is held for entry into the Indian Armed Forces through officer-level training routes. The NDA and NA examination is held for admission to the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy. Since these are national-level competitive examinations, candidates must follow the instructions on their admit cards and the latest UPSC notice.
Centre superintendents and district officials will manage the test process according to the UPSC rules. Candidates should listen to the instructions given at the centre, keep their documents ready and avoid carrying any item that the examination notice does not permit.
