Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially issued its Examination Calendar 2026, giving prospects important dates for different competitive exams. The calendar presents schedules for the Civil Services Examination (CSE), National Defence Academy (NDA), Combined Defence Services (CDS), Indian Forest Service (IFS), and others.
Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026
UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination is on May 24, 2026, and the Main Examination is on August 21, 2026. The CSE official notification comes out on January 14, 2026, and the window for applying remains open till February 3, 2026.
National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exams
The NDA and CDS examinations are held twice in the year 2026:
- NDA & CDS (I): April 12, 2026
- NDA & CDS (II): September 13, 2026
Notifications for these tests will be issued on December 10, 2025, and the deadline for applications will be December 30, 2025.
Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination
The IFS Preliminary Examination will be held along with the CSE Prelims on May 24, 2026. Shortlisted candidates will move to the IFS Main Examination, which will start on November 22, 2026.
Other Important Examinations
- Combined Geo-Scientist (Preliminary) Examination: February 8, 2026
- Engineering Services (Preliminary) Examination: February 8, 2026
- Indian Economic Service/Indian Statistical Service Examination: June 19, 2026
- Central Armed Police Forces (ACs) Examination: July 19, 2026
- Combined Medical Services Examination: August 2, 2026
Significance of the UPSC Examination Calendar
The publication of the UPSC Examination Calendar long before the commencement of the examinations acts as a strategic document for aspirants, giving them sufficient time to organize and prepare for their respective exams. It also helps candidates monitor deadlines for applications as well as examination dates, thus adopting a systematic approach to their preparation.
UPSC: How do aspirants use the examination calendar to prepare most effectively?
Candidates are recommended to synchronize their study timelines with the examination dates available in the UPSC calendar. With the knowledge of the timeline, applicants can plan enough time for every phase of the examination process, ranging from initial preparation to main examination preparedness and interview preparation. Periodic reference to the UPSC calendar is also useful in keeping abreast of any modifications or notices associated with the examinations.
The UPSC Examination Calendar 2026 is an exhaustive calendar for hopefuls wishing to appear for multiple competitive exams. Candidates are advised to remain vigilant for official announcements and schedule their preparation accordingly to have better chances of making it through.
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