UPSC releases 2026 exam calendar, check details here

UPSC has released the 2026 exam calendar for various services including Civil Services and Indian Forest Service. Key dates are provided for NDA, NA, CDS, and other exams.

UPSC

UPSC

time

The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination will serve as a common entry point for both the Civil Services and Indian Forest Service aspirants. The Mains exams for these services have also been scheduled later in the year.

The examination calendar also includes timelines for the NDA & NA and CDS exams, which are conducted twice a year. Similarly, the Engineering Services and Combined Geo-Scientist exams have their own two-phase structures, with separate preliminary and main stages.

The calendar features other significant tests such as the Indian Economic Service/Indian Statistical Service (IES/ISS), Combined Medical Services (CMS), and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) Assistant Commandants exam.

The Limited Departmental Competitive Examinations (LDCE) for CISF AC (EXE), CBI (DSP), and Section Officers/Stenographers are also scheduled, offering opportunities for departmental candidates to progress in their careers.

  • CISF AC (EXE) LDCE: Notification – December 3, 2025; Exam – March 8, 2026

  • CBI (DSP) LDCE: Notification – December 24, 2025; Exam – February 28, 2026

  • Combined Geo-Scientist (Prelims): Notification – September 3, 2025; Exam – February 8, 2026

  • Engineering Services (Prelims): Notification – September 17, 2025; Exam – February 8, 2026

  • NDA & NA (I), CDS (I): Notification – December 10, 2025; Exam – April 12, 2026

  • Civil Services (Prelims), Indian Forest Service (Prelims): Notification – January 14, 2026; Exam – May 24, 2026

  • IES/ISS: Notification – February 11, 2026; Exam – June 19, 2026

  • Combined Geo-Scientist (Main): Exam – June 20, 2026

  • Engineering Services (Main): Exam – June 21, 2026

  • CAPF (ACs): Notification – February 18, 2026; Exam – July 19, 2026

  • Combined Medical Services (CMS): Notification – March 11, 2026; Exam – August 2, 2026

  • Civil Services (Main): Exam – August 21, 2026

  • NDA & NA (II), CDS (II): Notification – May 20, 2026; Exam – September 13, 2026

  • Indian Forest Service (Main): Exam – November 22, 2026

  • S.O./Steno (GD-B/GD-I) LDCE: Notification – September 16, 2026; Exam – December 12, 2026

UPSC has advised candidates to keep checking its official website regularly for any changes, as the dates are subject to alteration depending on administrative and logistical circumstances.

This structured release helps aspirants plan their preparation well in advance, ensuring clarity and better time management throughout the year.

Next story