UPSC Exam Calendar for 2025-2026: A Comprehensive Guide
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam calendar for 2025-2026 is an essential resource for aspirants preparing for India's most prestigious government positions. It provides a timeline for key exams, enabling candidates to strategize their preparation effectively. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming UPSC exam schedule.
Overview of UPSC Exams
UPSC conducts various examinations to recruit candidates for administrative and other government services. Major exams include:
- Civil Services Examination (CSE): For IAS, IPS, IFS, and other allied services.
- Engineering Services Examination (ESE): For engineering positions in government departments.
- Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam: For entry into the Indian Armed Forces.
- National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam: For entry into the NDA and Naval Academy.
- Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Exam: For recruitment into forestry services.
- Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) Exam: For recruitment of Assistant Commandants.
Tentative UPSC Exam Calendar for 2025-2026
Below is a tentative schedule for major UPSC exams. Aspirants should refer to the official UPSC website for the most accurate and updated information.
Exam | Notification Release | Application Deadline | Prelims Date | Mains Date | Result Declaration |
Civil Services (CSE) | February 15, 2025 | March 15, 2025 | June 2, 2025 | September 15, 2025 | December 10, 2025 |
Indian Forest Service (IFoS) | February 15, 2025 | March 15, 2025 | June 2, 2025 (Combined) | November 10, 2025 | January 25, 2026 |
Engineering Services (ESE) | October 1, 2025 | October 31, 2025 | January 5, 2026 | April 20, 2026 | June 30, 2026 |
Combined Defence Services | April 10, 2025 | May 10, 2025 | July 20, 2025 | Not Applicable | September 5, 2025 |
NDA & NA | May 15, 2025 | June 15, 2025 | August 25, 2025 | Not Applicable | October 10, 2025 |
CAPF (Assistant Commandants) | March 1, 2025 | March 31, 2025 | May 15, 2025 | Not Applicable | July 30, 2025 |
How to Apply for UPSC Exams
- Visit the Official Website: Log in to upsc.gov.in for notifications and application forms.
- Complete Registration: First-time users must register through the One-Time Registration (OTR) portal.
- Choose Your Exam: Select the desired exam and proceed with the application process.
- Upload Documents: Ensure you upload a recent photograph, signature, and any other required documents.
- Pay the Application Fee: Complete the payment online to confirm your application.
- Download the Admit Card: Admit cards are released approximately three weeks before the exam date.
Tips for UPSC Exam Preparation
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the structure of Prelims, Mains, and the Interview stages.
- Follow the Syllabus: Study the official syllabus and focus on high-priority topics.
- Make a Study Schedule: Allocate dedicated time slots for General Studies, Optional Subjects, and Current Affairs.
- Read Newspapers and Magazines: Regularly read reputed newspapers like The Hindu and magazines such as Yojana and Kurukshetra.
- Solve Previous Papers: Practice past year question papers to understand the exam’s difficulty level and pattern.
- Take Mock Tests: Regularly assess your preparation through mock exams.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the eligibility for the UPSC Civil Services Examination?
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university and meet age criteria, which vary by category.
Q2: Can I apply for multiple UPSC exams in the same year?
Yes, candidates can apply for multiple exams if they meet the eligibility criteria for each.
Q3: Is there negative marking in UPSC Prelims?
Yes, there is negative marking for incorrect answers in the Prelims. Each wrong answer results in a deduction of one-third of the marks assigned to the question.
Q4: How many attempts are allowed for UPSC CSE?
The number of attempts varies:
- General Category: 6 attempts up to 32 years.
- OBC: 9 attempts up to 35 years.
- SC/ST: Unlimited attempts up to 37 years.
Q5: How long should I study daily for UPSC exams?
Most candidates dedicate 6-8 hours daily, but quality and consistency matter more than the number of hours.
Q6: Can I write UPSC Mains in a regional language?
Yes, candidates can write the Mains exam in any language included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Q7: What happens if I clear the Prelims but not the Mains?
You will need to reappear for the Prelims the following year, as clearing Prelims is valid only for the same year’s Mains.
Conclusion
The UPSC exam calendar for 2025-2026 offers a clear timeline for aspirants aiming to secure top government positions in India. With proper planning and consistent effort, you can excel in these challenging examinations. Start early, follow a structured plan, and stay motivated throughout your preparation journey.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Candidates are advised to refer to the official UPSC website for the most accurate and updated information regarding exam dates, eligibility, and requirements.
