The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Preliminary Examination 2026. Aspirants aiming to join the Indian Forest Service can now apply online through the official portal: upsconline.nic.in. The last date for submission is February 24, 2026, and candidates are encouraged to complete their application well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC IFS 2026
To apply for the IFS Preliminary Exam, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree from a recognised university or institution in India.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be between 21 and 32 years as of August 1, 2026. Age relaxations are applicable for reserved categories as per government rules.
Vacancies, Application Fee, and How to Apply
- Number of Vacancies: UPSC aims to fill around 180 IFS posts, distributed as:
- General: 33
- OBC: 21
- SC: 12
- ST: 6
- EWS: 8
(Note: Latest sources suggest vacancies may be closer to 80; always verify the official notification.)
- Application Fee: ₹100 for unreserved category candidates. SC/ST, PwBD, and female candidates are exempted.
How to Apply:
- Visit upsconline.nic.in.
- Register on the homepage.
- Complete the application form and pay the fee (if applicable).
- Submit the form and print a copy for reference.
Candidates are advised to read the official instructions carefully and apply early to avoid technical issues.
