UPSC CSE 2026 notification: The Union Public Service Commission has published the Civil Services Examination and Indian Forest Service 2026 notification and opened online registration. Eligible candidates can apply at upsconline.nic.in until 6 pm on February 24. The commission will fill 933 posts through the CSE process; the Preliminary exam is scheduled for May 24 and the Main exam begins on August 21, 2026.
Cut-off date for age eligibility
The cut-off date for determining age eligibility is August 1, 2026. Candidates should verify birthdate rules before applying to avoid disqualification.
Application fee and category exemptions
- General, OBC and EWS candidates must pay an application fee of Rs 100.
- SC, ST, female candidates and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities are exempt from the fee.
Educational qualification
Candidates must hold a graduate degree from a recognised university to be eligible to sit the exam. Confirm your degree status and university recognition prior to registration.
Age limit and relaxations
The standard age range is 21 to 32 years with statutory relaxations as per government rules for reserved categories and other eligible candidates. Check the notification for category-wise age relaxations.
Selection process and admit card details
Selection follows the three-stage UPSC process: Preliminary exam, Main exam and Personality Test followed by document verification and medical exam as applicable. e-Admit cards will be issued from the official portal on the last working day of the week prior to each exam session. Candidates requesting a scribe change may receive their e-Admit Card three days before the exam.
How to apply for UPSC CSE and IFS 2026
- Visit the official UPSC recruitment portal at upsconline.nic.in and open the CSE/IFS 2026 application link.
- Complete Part I registration to generate a registration ID, then finish Part II with personal, educational and communication details.
- Upload required documents, photograph and signature as per specifications.
- Pay the application fee online if applicable and submit the form. Save the confirmation page and print a copy for records.
Important exam day guidelines
- Reach the examination centre at least 30 minutes before reporting time; late entry will not be permitted.
- Carry the printed e-Admit Card and a valid government photo identity as listed on the admit card.
- Follow all centre instructions and anti malpractice protocols to avoid cancellation of candidature.
Quick checklist for aspirants
- Confirm eligibility: age, educational qualification and category status.
- Keep scanned copies of degree, ID proof, passport photo and signature ready in required formats.
- Apply well before the deadline and retain the confirmation slip.
- Subscribe to press-wire.org for a step-by-step application walkthrough, document templates and deadline alerts to avoid last-minute errors.
For the official notification and to apply, use the UPSC online portal. For printable application checklists, sample upload sizes, fee payment tips and a prefilled application sample, visit press-wire.org now.
