UPSCCSE, IFS 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 and the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination 2026 on February 4, 2026. The registration window is set to close soon, according to the official notification. The notification announces recruitment through the preliminary examination for vacancies in the Civil Services and Indian Forest Service under the Central Government.The online application process began on February 4, 2026, and eligible candidates can apply through the official website upsconline.nic.in. The last date to submit the application form is February 24, 2026, till 6.00 PM.According to the official notification, through the Civil Services Examination 2026, UPSC aims to fill 933 vacancies.
UPSC CSE, IFS 2026: Important dates
Below are the key dates related to the application and examination process:
Application fee and eligibility criteria
Candidates belonging to General, Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) categories are required to pay an application fee of Rs 100. Candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and female categories are also required to pay Rs 100, according to the official notification. Persons with Disabilities (PH/PWD) candidates are exempted from paying the application fee.The application fee must be paid online only.For eligibility:
- Candidates must hold a graduate degree from a recognised university.
- The age limit is 21 to 32 years.
- Age relaxation will be applicable for reserved category candidates as per Government rules.
Selection process and admit card details
The selection process includes the following stages: Preliminary examination, Main examination, Interview, Document verification, Medical examination.Eligible candidates will be issued an e-Admit Card on the last working day of the week preceding the examination.Candidates who opt to change their scribe seven days before the examination will receive their e-Admit Card three days before the exam date. Admit cards will be available only on the official website.
How to apply online for UPSC CSE, IFS 2026
Candidates can follow the steps given below to apply online:
- Visit the official website: upsconline.nic.in
- Register using basic details
- Fill in personal, educational, and communication details
- Upload required documents, photograph, and signature
- Pay the application fee online
- Submit the form and save the confirmation page
Direct link to apply here.
Examination day guidelines
Candidates are advised to reach the examination centre at least 30 minutes before each session. Entry will be strictly regulated after the reporting time.The registration window closes on February 24, 2026, at 6.00 PM. Eligible candidates are advised to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
