Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released its official Programme of Examinations and Recruitment Tests (RTs) for the year 2026. From Civil Services to NDA, CDS, Engineering Services, and Medical Services—every major exam is listed with clear dates and details.
UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 – Key Highlights
| 🧾 Exam Name | 🗓️ Notification Date | 🏁 Exam Date | ⏳ Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reserved for UPSC RT/Examination | — | 10 Jan 2026 | 2 Days |
| Reserved for UPSC Examination | — | 17 Jan 2026 | 2 Days |
| Combined Geo-Scientist (Prelims) | 03 Sep 2025 | 08 Feb 2026 | 1 Day |
| Engineering Services (Prelims) | 17 Sep 2025 | 28 Feb 2026 | 1 Day |
| CBI (DSP) LDCE | 24 Dec 2025 | 13 Jan 2026 | 2 Days |
| CISF AC (EXE) LDCE | 03 Dec 2025 | 08 Mar 2026 | 1 Day |
| NDA & NA (I) | 10 Dec 2025 | 12 Apr 2026 | 1 Day |
| CDS (I) | 10 Dec 2025 | 12 Apr 2026 | 1 Day |
| Civil Services (Prelims) | 14 Jan 2026 | 24 May 2026 | 1 Day |
| Indian Forest Service (Prelims) through CS(P) Exam | — | 24 May 2026 | 1 Day |
| Reserved for UPSC RT/Examination | — | 06 Jun 2026 | 2 Days |
| IES/ISS Exam | 11 Feb 2026 | 20 Jun 2026 | 3 Days |
| Combined Geo-Scientist (Main) | — | 21 Jun 2026 | 2 Days |
| Engineering Services (Main) | — | 28 Jun 2026 | 1 Day |
| Reserved for UPSC RT/Examination | — | 04 Jul 2026 | 2 Days |
| CAPF (Assistant Commandants) | 18 Feb 2026 | 19 Jul 2026 | 1 Day |
| Combined Medical Services | 11 Mar 2026 | 02 Aug 2026 | 1 Day |
| Reserved for UPSC Examination | — | 08 Aug 2026 | 2 Days |
| Civil Services (Main) | 20 May 2026 | 13 Sep 2026 | 5 Days |
| NDA & NA (II) | 20 May 2026 | 26 Sep 2026 | 1 Day |
| CDS (II) | 20 May 2026 | 26 Sep 2026 | 1 Day |
| Reserved for UPSC RT/Examination | — | 10 Oct 2026 | 2 Days |
| Reserved for UPSC RT/Examination | — | 31 Oct 2026 | 2 Days |
| Indian Forest Service (Main) | — | 22 Nov 2026 | 7 Days |
| S.O./Steno (Grade B/Grade I) LDCE | 16 Sep 2026 | 12 Dec 2026 | 2 Days |
| Reserved for UPSC RT/Examination | — | 19 Dec 2026 | 2 Days |
Note: All exam dates, notifications, and durations are subject to change depending on national or administrative circumstances.
What Exams Does This Calendar Cover?
This UPSC schedule includes a mix of preliminary, main, and limited departmental exams such as:
- Civil Services (IAS, IPS, IFS, etc.)
- Engineering Services (ESE)
- Indian Economic/Statistical Services
- Combined Medical Services (CMS)
- Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF AC)
- National Defence Academy (NDA)
- Combined Defence Services (CDS)
- Indian Forest Service (IFS)
- Limited Departmental Exams like CISF AC (EXE), S.O./Steno, CBI (DSP)
Why Is This UPSC Exam Calendar Important?
This calendar helps you:
- Plan your year-long preparation with exact dates
- Time your mock tests and revisions
- Track when to fill forms and download admit cards
- Avoid last-minute surprises with overlapping exam dates
FAQs
Q1: Is this UPSC calendar final?
The dates are official, but UPSC may change them if required. Always verify on upsc.gov.in.
Q2: When will Civil Services 2026 Prelims be held?
24 May 2026 (Sunday). Notification will be out on 14 Jan 2026.
Q3: Can I appear for more than one UPSC exam in a year?
Yes. Many aspirants apply for multiple exams like CDS, NDA, CAPF, Civil Services, etc., if they meet the eligibility.
Q4: How to stay updated with changes?
Regularly check the official website: https://upsc.gov.in and enable notifications on official UPSC apps.
Q5: What is the best time to start UPSC preparation?
Start at least 10–12 months before your targeted prelims exam. For 2026, begin serious prep from mid-2025.
