UPSC Examination Calendar 2026: Check Details and Schedule
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) released its official examination calendar for 2026 on May 15, 2025. This schedule provides critical dates for various competitive examinations, including the Civil Services Examination (CSE), Indian Forest Service (IFS), National Defence Academy (NDA), Combined Defence Services (CDS), Engineering Services Examination (ESE), and others. Below is a systematic breakdown of the calendar, download instructions, and additional information for aspirants.
1. UPSC Exam Calendar 2026: Key Dates
The following table outlines the major UPSC examinations for 2026, including notification release dates, application deadlines, examination dates, and durations.
| Examination Name | Notification Date | Last Date to Apply | Exam Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Combined Geo-Scientist (Preliminary) Exam | 3 Sep 2025 | 23 Sep 2025 | 8 Feb 2026 | 1 Day |
| Engineering Services (Preliminary) Exam | 17 Sep 2025 | 7 Oct 2025 | 8 Feb 2026 | 1 Day |
| NDA & NA Exam (I) | 10 Dec 2025 | 30 Dec 2025 | 12 Apr 2026 | 1 Day |
| CDS Exam (I) | 10 Dec 2025 | 30 Dec 2025 | 12 Apr 2026 | 1 Day |
| Civil Services (Preliminary) Exam | 14 Jan 2026 | 3 Feb 2026 | 24 May 2026 | 1 Day |
| Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Exam | 14 Jan 2026 | 3 Feb 2026 | 24 May 2026 | 1 Day |
| IES/ISS Exam | 11 Feb 2026 | 3 Mar 2026 | 19 Jun 2026 | 3 Days |
| Combined Medical Services Exam | 11 Mar 2026 | 31 Mar 2026 | 2 Aug 2026 | 1 Day |
| NDA & NA Exam (II) | 20 May 2026 | 9 Jun 2026 | 13 Sep 2026 | 1 Day |
| CDS Exam (II) | 20 May 2026 | 9 Jun 2026 | 13 Sep 2026 | 1 Day |
| Civil Services (Main) Exam | — | — | 21 Aug 2026 | 5 Days |
| Indian Forest Service (Main) Exam | — | — | 22 Nov 2026 | 7 Days |
| CAPF (Assistant Commandants) Exam | 18 Feb 2026 | 10 Mar 2026 | 19 Jul 2026 | 1 Day |
Note: The Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Examination is conducted through the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination.
2. How to Download the UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 PDF
Candidates can access the official UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 PDF by following these steps:
- Visit the Official UPSC Website: Go to https://www.upsc.gov.in.
- Navigate to Examinations: Click on the “Examinations” tab on the homepage.
- Access the Calendar: Select the “Calendar” option.
- Download the PDF: Click on the “Annual Calendar 2026” link to download the PDF.
Direct Download Link: UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 PDF (Note: Replace with the exact link when available).
3. Important Links
- Official UPSC Website: https://www.upsc.gov.in
- UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 PDF: Download Here (Note: Replace with the exact link when available)
- SK Result Article on UPSC Exam Calendar 2026: Read More
4. Additional Information for Aspirants
- Examination Details: For comprehensive information on syllabi, eligibility criteria, and preparation strategies, refer to the official UPSC notifications for each examination.
- Preparation Tips: Candidates can access resources and guidance through the SK Result article linked above or other reliable platforms.
- Updates and Modifications: The dates provided are subject to change. Aspirants should regularly check the official UPSC website for any updates to the examination schedule.
5. Key Notes
- The Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Exam is integrated with the Civil Services (Preliminary) Exam.
- Candidates should plan their preparation based on the official schedule and verify dates periodically for any changes.
- For further queries, contact UPSC through their official website or helpline.
This structured calendar enables aspirants to strategize their preparation effectively for the 2026 UPSC examinations.