UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 Released: Key Dates and Details for Civil Services, IFS, and Other Exams
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the annual exam calendar for the year 2026. This highly anticipated schedule includes crucial dates for various competitive examinations, including the Civil Services (CSE), Indian Forest Service (IFS), Engineering Services (ESE), and other key recruitment exams. Aspiring candidates can now plan their preparation accordingly, as the dates provide a clear roadmap for the upcoming year.
UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 Released: Key Dates and Details for Civil Services, IFS, and Other Exams
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the annual exam calendar for the year 2026. This highly anticipated schedule includes crucial dates for various competitive examinations, including the Civil Services (CSE), Indian Forest Service (IFS), Engineering Services (ESE), and other key recruitment exams. Aspiring candidates can now plan their preparation accordingly, as the dates provide a clear roadmap for the upcoming year.
Major Exam Highlights for 2026:
- UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) and Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Exams:
Both exams are scheduled for May 24, 2026, with the official notification set to be released on December 10, 2025. The application window for these exams will be open until February 3, 2026.
- Combined Geo-Scientist (Preliminary) Examination:
The preliminary stage of this exam will be conducted on February 8, 2026, with its notification releasing on September 3, 2025. The last date to apply is September 23, 2025.
- Engineering Services (Preliminary) Examination:
Scheduled for February 8, 2026, this exam will open its application window from September 17, 2025, to October 7, 2025.
- National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (I):
The first phase of the NDA & NA exams will be held on April 14, 2026, with applications accepted until February 3, 2026.
- Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I):
The first phase is also scheduled for April 14, 2026, with the same application deadline as NDA & NA.
- Central Armed Police Forces (ACs) Examination:
This exam will be conducted on February 18, 2026, with applications accepted until March 10, 2026.
- Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination:
Scheduled for March 11, 2026, with the application deadline set for March 31, 2026.
- Indian Economic Service (IES) and Indian Statistical Service (ISS) Examination:
This specialized exam will be held on February 11, 2026, with applications accepted until March 3, 2026.
- National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination (II):
The second phase will be conducted on May 20, 2026, with applications accepted until June 9, 2026.
Important Notes for Aspirants:
The UPSC has noted that the dates mentioned in the calendar are subject to change based on administrative requirements or unforeseen circumstances. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official UPSC website (upsc.gov.in) for the latest updates and notifications regarding these exams.
With this comprehensive schedule now available, aspirants are encouraged to start their preparation early, keeping the deadlines in mind to avoid last-minute rushes. Stay focused, stay prepared, and stay ahead in your UPSC journey.
For more details, visit the official UPSC website or follow the latest updates on educational news portals.