UPSC Notification 2026 Released, Civil Services Exam Dates, Eligibility, Application Process

UPSC Notification 2026: The UPSC Notification 2026 is one of the most awaited announcements for students who dream of serving the nation through top government positions like IAS, IPS, IFS, and IRS. The Union Public Service Commission conducts the Civil Services Examination every year to recruit officers for Group A and Group B services under the Government of India. This examination is known for its high standards, transparent process, and national-level competition.

UPSC Notification 2026

As per the official schedule, the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026 application process will begin on 04 February 2026 and end on 24 February 2026. Candidates from across India can apply online through the official UPSC portals.

UPSC Notification 2026 Overview

Examination Details	Information
Exam Conducting Body	Union Public Service Commission
Examination Name	Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026
Posts	Group A & Group B Services
Popular Services	IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS
Application Start Date	04 February 2026
Application End Date	24 February 2026 (till 18:00)
Exam Level	National
Exam Frequency	Annual
Exam Stages	Prelims, Mains, Interview
Exam Language	English and Hindi
Official Websites	https://www.upsc.gov.in, https://upsconline.nic.in

What Is UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026

The Civil Services Examination is a national-level competitive exam conducted to select candidates for various administrative positions in the central government. Officers selected through this exam play an important role in policy making, law enforcement, administration, and public service delivery.

UPSC CSE 2026 will be conducted in three stages, and candidates must clear each stage to move forward. The entire process usually takes more than one year from notification to final result.

UPSC CSE 2026 Important Dates

The notification and application schedule is crucial for all aspirants. Key dates include:

• Notification Release: February 2026
• Online Application Start: 04 February 2026
• Online Application Last Date: 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM)
• Prelims Exam: To be announced
• Mains Exam: To be announced
• Interview and Final Result: As per UPSC schedule

Candidates should regularly visit the official website for updates.

UPSC CSE 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, candidates must carefully check eligibility conditions.

Educational Qualification:

• Candidate must hold a graduate degree from a recognized university
• Final-year students can also apply, subject to conditions

Age Limit:

• Minimum age: 21 years
• Maximum age: 32 years for General category
• Age relaxation is available for reserved categories as per government rules

Nationality:

• IAS and IPS: Indian citizen only
• Other services: As per UPSC nationality rules

UPSC CSE 2026 Application Process

The application process for UPSC Notification 2026 is fully online and consists of two parts.

Steps to apply online:

• Visit the official website https://upsconline.nic.in
• Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
• Fill Part I application with personal and educational details
• Fill Part II application including exam center and payment
• Upload photograph and signature
• Submit the application and take a printout

Candidates must ensure all details are correct before final submission.

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UPSC CSE 2026 Application Fee

The application fee details are as follows:

• General and OBC candidates: ₹100
• SC, ST, PwBD, and Female candidates: No fee

Fee can be paid online or offline as per UPSC instructions.

UPSC CSE 2026 Selection Process

The selection process consists of three stages.

Preliminary Examination:

• Objective type questions
• Two papers: General Studies and CSAT
• Used for screening only

Main Examination:

• Descriptive type papers
• Tests in-depth knowledge and writing skills

Interview or Personality Test:

• Conducted by UPSC board
• Evaluates personality, communication, and leadership qualities

Final merit list is prepared based on Mains and Interview marks.

UPSC CSE 2026 Exam Pattern Highlights

Key exam pattern points include:

• Prelims is qualifying in nature
• CSAT paper is qualifying with minimum marks
• Mains consists of essay, GS papers, and optional subjects
• Interview carries significant weight in final selection

Candidates should prepare according to the latest syllabus.

Services Offered Through UPSC CSE

Some major services include:

• Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
• Indian Police Service (IPS)
• Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
• Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
• Other Central Services Group A and B

Each service offers a prestigious career with responsibility and respect.

Important Preparation Tips for UPSC 2026

To prepare effectively, candidates should:

• Understand the syllabus clearly
• Follow a fixed study schedule
• Read newspapers daily
• Practice answer writing regularly
• Revise topics multiple times
• Refer to standard books only

Consistency and discipline are key to success.

FAQs on UPSC Notification 2026

The UPSC Notification 2026 marks the beginning of another important journey for civil services aspirants across India. With a clear application schedule, defined eligibility rules, and a structured selection process, the Civil Services Examination remains the most respected competitive exam in the country. Aspirants should start preparation early, apply carefully, and stay updated through official UPSC websites to avoid missing any important information.