UPSC CSE Notification 2026: Check how to apply, last date, eligibility, fees, vacancies and more

The Union Public Service Commission on February 4, 2026, released the notification for the Civil Services Examination and the Indian Forest Service Examination 2026, initiating recruitment through a common preliminary examination for central government posts. Around 933 vacancies are expected to be filled through the Civil Services Examination.

The online application process began on February 4, 2026, on upsconline.nic.in, and will close on February 24, 2026, at 6.00 pm.

Vacancy details

Of the approximately 933 vacancies, 33 posts are reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities. This includes seven vacancies for candidates with blindness and low vision, 11 for those who are deaf and hard of hearing, eight for candidates with locomotor disabilities, and seven for candidates with multiple disabilities.

Exam schedule and key dates

The preliminary examination for both the Civil Services and Indian Forest Service examinations will be held on May 24, 2026. Candidates who qualify will appear for the main examination on August 21, 2026. The cut-off date for age eligibility is August 1, 2026.

Direct link to read the notice for Civil Services Examination 2026

How to apply online

Candidates must apply online through upsconline.nic.in. Before filling out the application form, applicants are advised to carefully read the general instructions, module-wise guidelines and document upload requirements. Candidates applying for the Civil Services Examination are required to submit accurate personal and academic details, along with supporting documents such as proof of date of birth and educational qualifications, using the Universal Registration Number, Common Application Form and the examination-specific module, which includes fee payment and choice of examination centre. Failure to provide the required information or documents with the Common Application Form will result in cancellation of candidature.

Application fee and eligibility criteria

Candidates from the General, OBC and EWS categories are required to pay an application fee of Rs 100 through online mode. Applicants belonging to the SC, ST and female categories are also required to pay an application fee of Rs 100, while persons with disabilities are exempted.

Applicants must hold a graduate degree from a recognised university. The age limit is 21 to 32 years, with age relaxation applicable as per government rules.

Selection process and admit card details

The selection process includes a preliminary examination, main examination, interview, document verification and medical examination. Eligible candidates will be issued an e-Admit Card on the last working day of the week preceding the examination.

Candidates opting to change their scribe up to seven days before the examination will receive the e-Admit Card three days prior to the examination. Admit cards will be available only on the official website.

Examination day guidelines

Candidates must report to the examination centre at least 30 minutes before the start of each session, as entry will be strictly regulated thereafter.