New Delhi: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced that the registration for the 2026 Civil Services Examination (Prelims) and Indian Forest Service (IFS) exam will close on February 24, 2026. The registration process began on February 4, 2026, and candidates who have not yet applied are advised to complete their registration before the deadline, as late applications will not be accepted.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC 2026 Exams
Candidates aspiring to appear for the UPSC Civil Services and IFS exams must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Educational Qualification: A graduate degree from a recognized university.
- Age Limit: Between 21 and 32 years. Age relaxation is provided for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per Government rules.
Candidates are advised to carefully verify their eligibility before submitting applications to avoid disqualification.
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Selection Process Overview
The selection for UPSC 2026 exams is multi-stage and includes:
- Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
- Main Examination (Written)
- Interview / Personality Test
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Only candidates who successfully qualify each stage will move on to the next phase of the selection process.
Admit Card Details
The admit cards will be released on the last working day of the week preceding the exam. Candidates must take a printout of the admit card, as entry into the examination hall will not be permitted without it.
Application Fee
The application fee structure for UPSC 2026 exams is as follows:
- General, OBC, and EWS categories: Rs 100
- Persons with Disabilities (PH/PWD): Exempted from the fee
Candidates should ensure that the fee is paid online before submission to successfully complete the application process.
How to Apply Online for UPSC CSE and IFS 2026
Candidates can follow these steps to apply online:
- Visit the official UPSC website: upsconline.nic.in
- Register using basic personal details on the homepage
- Fill in educational, personal, and communication information
- Upload required documents, photograph, and signature
- Pay the application fee online and submit the form
- Download the confirmation page for future reference
Candidates are encouraged to regularly check the official UPSC website for updates, notifications, and important announcements related to the exam.
