UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 Out: Complete Schedule & Important Dates

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially published the Annual Examination Calendar for the year 2026, providing aspirants with a detailed schedule for key recruitment exams.

This calendar covers 27 major examinations including the prestigious Civil Services Exam (CSE), Indian Forest Service (IFS), National Defence Academy (NDA), Combined Defence Services (CDS), Engineering Services Exam (ESE), and the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination.

Important Dates to Note:

Civil Services Examination (CSE):

Preliminary exam is slated for May 24, 2026.

Main exam begins on August 21, 2026.

Official notification will be out on January 14, 2026, with the last date to apply on February 3, 2026.

Indian Forest Service (IFS):

Main examination scheduled for November 22, 2026.

Notification releases in December 2025, with the application deadline in January 2026.

National Defence Academy (NDA):

NDA I exam to be held on April 12, 2026.

NDA II exam scheduled for September 13, 2026.

Combined Defence Services (CDS):

CDS I will take place on April 12, 2026.

CDS II is planned for September 13, 2026.

Engineering Services Examination (ESE):

Prelims on February 8, 2026, and Mains on June 21, 2026.

Combined Geo-Scientist Exam:

Preliminary exam on February 8, 2026.

Main exam set for June 20, 2026.

The release of this calendar allows candidates to plan their preparation well in advance. Aspirants should regularly visit the official UPSC website (upsc.gov.in) for the latest updates, detailed notifications, and changes to the schedule.

This structured timeline aims to streamline the recruitment process and provide transparency to candidates gearing up for competitive exams throughout 2026.

Conclusion:

The release of the UPSC Annual Examination Calendar 2026 marks a significant step in helping aspirants organize their preparation and stay informed about key examination dates. With clear schedules for multiple prestigious exams, candidates can now strategize effectively and ensure timely application submissions. Staying updated through the official UPSC website is essential to avoid missing any important notifications or changes. This proactive approach will empower candidates to navigate the competitive exam season with confidence and clarity.