UPSC Calendar 2025-2026: Key Dates and Preparations
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released its examination schedule for the year UPSC Calendar 2026, bringing a new wave of excitement and anticipation. This comprehensive guide breaks down the key dates, helping aspirants plan their preparations effectively. Let's dive into the details while keeping an eye on important details.
Official Link : https://upsc.gov.in/content/annual-calendar-2026
Understanding the UPSC Examination Schedule
UNION PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION PROGRAMME OF EXAMINATIONS/RECRUITMENT TESTS (RTs) -2026 | |||||
Sl. No. | Name of Examination | Date of Notification | Last Date for receipt of
Applications | Date of commencement of Exam | Duration of Exam |
| 1. | Reserved for UPSC RT/ Examination | 10.01.2026 (Saturday) | 2 Days | ||
| 2. | Reserved for UPSC Examination | 17.01.2026 (Saturday) | 2 Days | ||
| 3. | Combined Geo-Scientist (Preliminary) Examination, 2026 | 03.09.2025 | 23.09.2025 | 08.02.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY |
| 4. | Engineering Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2026 | 17.09.2025 | 07.10.2025 | 08.02.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY |
| 5. | CBI (DSP) LDCE | 24.12.2025 | 13.01.2026 | 28.02.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAY |
| 6. | CISF AC(EXE) LDCE-2026 | 03.12.2025 | 23.12.2025 | 08.03.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY |
| 7. | N.D.A. & N.A. Examination (I), 2026 | 10.12.2025 | 30.12.2025 | 12.04.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY |
| 8. | C.D.S. Examination (I), 2026 | ||||
| 9. | Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2026 | 14.01.2026 | 03.02.2026 | 24.05.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY |
| 10. | Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Examination, 2026 through CS(P) Examination 2026 | ||||
| 11. | Reserved for UPSC RT/ Examination | 06.06.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS | ||
| 12. | I.E.S./I.S.S. Examination, 2026 | 11.02.2026 | 03.03.2026 | 19.06.2026 (Friday) | 3 DAYS |
| 13. | Combined Geo-Scientist (Main) Examination, 2026 | 20.06.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS | ||
| 14. | Engineering Services (Main) Examination, 2026 | 21.06.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY | ||
| 15. | Reserved for UPSC RT/ Examination | 04.07.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS | ||
| 16. | Central Armed Police Forces (ACs) Examination, 2026 | 18.02.2026 | 10.03.2026 | 19.07.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY |
| 17. | Combined Medical Services Examination, 2026 | 11.03.2026 | 31.03.2026 | 02.08.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY |
| 18. | Reserved for UPSC Examination | 08.08.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS | ||
| 19. | Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2026 | 21.08.2026 (Friday) | 5 DAYS | ||
| 20. | N.D.A. & N.A. Examination (II), 2026 | 20.05.2026 | 09.06.2026 | 13.09.2026 (Sunday) | 1 DAY |
| 21. | C.D.S. Examination (II), 2026 | ||||
| 22. | Reserved for UPSC RT/ Examination | 26.09.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS | ||
| 23. | Reserved for UPSC RT/ Examination | 10.10.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS | ||
| 24. | Reserved for UPSC RT/ Examination | 31.10.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS | ||
| 25. | Indian Forest Service (Main) Examination, 2026 | 22.11.2026 (Sunday) | 7 DAYS | ||
| 26. | S.O./Steno (GD-B/GD-I) LDCE | 16.09.2026 | 06.10.2026 | 12.12.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS |
| 27. | Reserved for UPSC RT/ Examination | 19.12.2026 (Saturday) | 2 DAYS | ||
| Note: The dates of notification, commencement and duration of Examinations/ RTs are liable to alteration, if the circumstances so warrant. | |||||
Planning is crucial for any UPSC aspirant. Whether you're gearing up for the Combined Geo-Scientist, Engineering Services, or the Civil Services exams, knowing the dates can make all the difference in your study routine.
Key Milestones: UPSC Preliminary Exams
Preliminary exams set the stage for your UPSC journey. Here’s a quick look at the preliminary exams scheduled for 2026:
- Combined Geo-Scientist (08.02.2026)
- Engineering Services (08.02.2026)
Note: These exams will require different skill sets and preparation methods, so tailor your approach accordingly.
The First Quarter: Setting the Pace
Start your year with focus, as January and February have significant notifications. The first quarter of 2026 brings a series of exams:
- CBI (DSP) LDCE (28.02.2026)
- CISF AC(EXE) LDCE (08.03.2026)
- N.D.A. & N.A. Examination (I) (12.04.2026)
Prepping for the Civil Services and Indian Forest Service Exams
Marked on every aspirant's calendar, the Civil Services Preliminary Examination is revered as one of the toughest. Keep these dates in mind:
- Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination: 24.05.2026
- Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) through CS(P) Examination: 26.05.2026
Navigating through Mid-Year Exams
As the year progresses, focus on mid-year exams like:
- I.E.S./I.S.S. Examination on 19.06.2026
- Combined Geo-Scientist (Main) Examination on 20.06.2026
- Engineering Services (Main) Examination on 21.06.2026
These exams not only test your knowledge but also your endurance and ability to focus under pressure.
Embrace the Challenge: Late-Year UPSC Exams
The latter part of the year continues to challenge aspirants with demanding exams such as:
- Central Armed Police Forces (ACs) Examination on 19.07.2026
- Combined Medical Services Examination on 02.08.2026
Deep Dive: Civil Services Main Examination
Touted as a game-changer, the Civil Services Main Examination in August spans five days of intense testing (21.08.2026 - 25.08.2026). Aspirants must prioritize their studies and ensure they cover the extensive syllabus thoroughly.
Charting the Course: Planning for N.D.A. & N.A. Examination (II)
The N.D.A. & N.A. Examination (II) on 13.09.2026 is another milestone that demands rigorous preparation. If you're aiming for the National Defence Academy, familiarizing yourself with the syllabus and pattern will provide an edge.
Preparing for C.D.S. Examination (II)
The Combined Defence Services Examination (II) concludes the major exams for the year, testing aspirants' caliber and endurance.
Conclusion: The UPSC 2025-2026 Journey
In conclusion, the UPSC calendar for 2025-2026 is both rigorous and rewarding. Detailed planning and relentless preparation can transform this journey into a successful career milestone. Remember, your dedication and commitment will play crucial roles in this journey. Best of luck as you prepare to embark on this challenging yet empowering path.
Examination Dates at a Glance
For quick reference, here’s a table summarizing the key examination dates:
Latest Comments