UPSC Civil Services (IAS) and IFS Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 1013 Posts

The UPSC Notification 2026 has been officially released by the Union Public Service Commission. This year, the commission has announced a total of 1013 vacancies for the Civil Services Examination (IAS) and the Indian Forest Service (IFS). Aspiring candidates looking for a prestigious Sarkari Naukri in India can submit their applications starting from 4th February 2026.

The UPSC recruitment process is the gateway to India's most elite administrative services, including IAS, IPS, and IFS. Below, we provide an exhaustive guide on the UPSC 2026 notification, important dates, vacancy details, and the step-by-step application procedure.

UPSC 2026 Notification Details & Overview

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts this national-level examination annually. The 2026 recruitment drive aims to fill administrative positions across various central government departments.

Important Dates (UPSC 2026 Schedule)

To ensure you don't miss any deadlines, please refer to the official UPSC examination calendar for 2026 provided below:

Vacancy Details 2026

The 1013 vacancies are distributed between the Civil Services and Forest Services. Please note that vacancies for PwBD candidates are reserved as per government norms.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must ensure they meet the following eligibility requirements before filling out the application form.

Educational Qualification

• For Civil Services (IAS): A candidate must hold a Bachelor's Degree from any recognized university in any stream. Candidates appearing for their final year examinations are also eligible to apply for the Preliminary stage.

• For Indian Forest Service (IFS): A candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least one of the following subjects: Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics and Zoology, or a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Forestry, or Engineering.

Age Limit (As of 1st August 2026)

• Minimum Age: 21 Years

• Maximum Age: 32 Years

• The candidate must have been born not earlier than 2nd August 1994 and not later than 1st August 2005.

Age Relaxation:

• SC/ST: 5 Years

• OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 Years

• Defense Service Personnel: 3 Years

• PwBD: 10 Years

Selection Process

The UPSC recruitment follows a rigorous three-tier selection process:

1. Preliminary Examination: Two objective-type papers (General Studies and CSAT) serving as a qualifying screening test.

2. Mains Examination: A descriptive written exam consisting of 9 papers, including optional subjects.

3. Personality Test (Interview): A face-to-face interview with the UPSC board to assess the candidate's suitability for a career in public service.

Salary / Pay Scale

UPSC officers are placed in the Level 10 of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) pay matrix.

• Starting Basic Pay: ₹56,100 per month.

• Allowances: Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and various other perks like government accommodation and official vehicles.

Application Fee

The application fee can be paid online via SBI Net Banking or by using any Visa/Master/RuPay Credit/Debit Card.

• General / OBC / EWS: ₹100/-

• SC / ST / Female / PwBD: Exempted (Nil)

How to Apply for UPSC 2026 (Step-by-Step)

Follow these steps to successfully submit your UPSC application:

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to upsconline.nic.in.

2. OTR Registration: Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR). If you have registered previously, log in with your credentials.

3. Fill Application Part-I: Enter personal details, address, and educational qualifications.

4. Fill Application Part-II: Pay the application fee (if applicable) and select your preferred Exam Centre.

5. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and a valid Photo ID proof (Aadhar Card, Voter ID, etc.).

6. Declaration: Read the declaration carefully and click on the 'Submit' button.

7. Save Receipt: Download and print the application form for future reference.

Important Links

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC 2026?

The last date to submit the online application is 24th February 2026, until 6:00 PM.

2. How many attempts are allowed for the General Category?

Candidates from the General category are allowed 6 attempts until the age of 32.

3. Is there a change in the UPSC 2026 Exam Pattern?

As of the current notification, the pattern remains the same (Prelims, Mains, and Interview). Always refer to the official PDF for minor syllabus updates.

4. Can I apply for both IAS and IFS?

Yes, candidates can apply for both through a common Preliminary examination, provided they meet the specific educational eligibility for the Forest Service.

5. What is the date for UPSC Prelims 2026?

The Preliminary examination is scheduled to be held on 24th May 2026.