The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released its Annual Examination Calendar for 2026, giving candidates much‑needed clarity and ample preparation time. The calendar lists notification dates, application deadlines, and exam dates for prestigious exams like Civil Services (IAS/IPS/IFS), NDA, CDS, IFS, Engineering Services, CAPF, CMS, and more.
UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 – Key Dates & Overview
| Examination | Notification Date | Last Date to Apply | Exam Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Services (Prelims) | 14 Jan 2026 | 3 Feb 2026 | 24 May 2026 (Sun) |
| Civil Services (Mains) | — | — | 21 Aug 2026 (Fri–Five days) |
| Indian Forest Service (through CSE Prelims) | 14 Jan 2026 | 3 Feb 2026 | 24 May 2026 (Sun) |
| NDA I & CDS I | 10 Dec 2025 | 30 Dec 2025 | 12 Apr 2026 (Sun) |
| NDA II & CDS II | 20 May 2026 | 9 Jun 2026 | 13 Sep 2026 (Sun) |
| Engineering Services (Prelims) | 17 Sep 2025 | 7 Oct 2025 | 8 Feb 2026 (Sun) |
| Geo‑Scientist (Prelims) | 3 Sep 2025 | 23 Sep 2025 | 8 Feb 2026 (Sun) |
| CAPF AC (Exe) | 18 Feb 2026 | 10 Mar 2026 | 19 Jul 2026 (Sun) |
| CMS | 11 Mar 2026 | 31 Mar 2026 | 2 Aug 2026 (Sun) |
| IES/ISS (Prelims) | 11 Feb 2026 | 3 Mar 2026 | 19 Jun 2026 (Fri) |
| LDCE & Reserved RTs** | – | – | Multiple slots ±2026 dates |
Note: “Reserved for UPSC RT/Examination” indicates tentative dates kept in the calendar for flexibility.
How to Download UPSC Exam Calendar PDF
- Visit upsc.gov.in.
- Navigate to Examinations → Calendar.
- Click on “Annual Calendar 2026”.
- View/download the PDF containing detailed exam schedules.
This ensures you always refer to the official version and any updates.
Importance of UPSC Exam Calendar 2026
- Strategic Planning – Allows aspirants to align their daily/weekly preparation with key milestones like notification, form submission, and exam days.
- No Missed Deadlines – Crucial for timely application to avoid late fees or missing out altogether.
- Prioritizing Preparation – Enables balanced study schedules—starting from prelims prep, then focusing on mains/interview stages.
Understanding the Civil Services Timeline
Preliminary Stage
- Objective-type screening test with GS Paper I & CSAT Paper II.
- Date: 24 May 2026
- Application: 14 Jan – 3 Feb 2026
- Sets the stage for Mains; CSAT is qualifying with a minimum passing mark.
Main Stage
- Nine papers: two qualifying + seven merit-based + interview.
- Date: Begins 21 Aug 2026; spans five days.
Interview/Personality Test
- Conducted post-Mains, typically late 2026 or early 2027.
- Culminates the selection journey via a final merit list.
Other Major UPSC Exams in 2026
⬩ NDA & CDS
- NDA I & CDS I: 12 Apr 2026
- NDA II & CDS II: 13 Sep 2026
- Ideal for aspirants aiming for defence/administrative services.
⬩ Engineering & Geo‑Scientist Prelims
- Held simultaneously on 8 Feb 2026.
- Helps ESE & Geo‑Scientist hopefuls focus prep early.
⬩ CAPF & CMS
- CAPF AC (Exe): 19 Jul 2026
- CMS: 2 Aug 2026
- Targets candidates seeking constabulary or medical service roles.
Refer to the key dates table for more schedules.
Tips to Prepare Using the Calendar
- Start Early
- Civil Services aspirants: Begin GS revision 12–15 months before 24 May 2026.
- Engineering aspirants: Ready for 8 Feb 2026 by June–July 2025.
- Monthly Breakdowns
- Prelims to Mains: 3-month gap (May–Aug) for deeper study and optional subjects.
- Simulated Practice
- Regular mock tests aligned with exam frequency.
- Document Readiness
- Keep qualifications, Caste/EWS/PWD certificates handy by Jan 2026.
- Stay Updated
- Monitor official UPSC website for possible adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When is the notification for UPSC CSE 2026 released?
A: 14 January 2026.
Q2: What’s the Prelims exam date?
A: 24 May 2026 (Sunday)
Q3: When does Mains begin?
A: 21 August 2026 (Five days)
Q4: Can dates change?
A: Yes. UPSC reserves right to modify dates. Always cross‑verify on official site .
Q5: When are NDA & CDS exams?
A: 12 April 2026 (I) & 13 Sep 2026 (II)
Conclusion
The UPSC Exam Calendar 2026, released on 15 May 2025, empowers aspirants with early clarity. From Prelims to Mains and specialized exams like NDA, CDS, Engineering Services, CAPF, and CMS, this calendar supports disciplined planning and optimal preparation.
- Download the PDF from the UPSC official site.
- Note all deadlines in your planner.
- Design your roadmap around key dates—mock tests, revision, and rest.
- Stay flexible—expect minor shifts and track updates.