Both examinations are conducted annually and attract lakhs of aspirants from across the country due to their career stability, authority, attractive salary packages, and opportunities to serve the nation.
This article provides a complete combined guide covering vacancies, eligibility criteria, age limit, salary structure, selection process, exam pattern, application procedure, and preparation tips.
UPSC Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particular | Civil Services Examination (CSE) | Indian Forest Service (IFS) |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Authority | UPSC | UPSC |
| Total Vacancies | Approx. 933 | 80 |
| Qualification | Graduation | Bachelor’s with Science Subjects |
| Age Limit | 21–32 Years | 21–32 Years |
| Application Mode | Online | Online |
| Selection Stages | Prelims, Mains, Interview | Prelims, Mains, Interview, Medical |
| Apply Start Date | 04 February 2026 | 04 February 2026 |
| Last Date | 24 February 2026 | 24 February 2026 |
Vacancies Details
Civil Services Examination 2026
Approximately 933 posts across various Group A and Group B services including:
Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
Indian Police Service (IPS)
Indian Foreign Service (IFS – Foreign)
Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
Indian Audit & Accounts Service
DANICS / DANIPS
Other Central Services
Indian Forest Service Examination 2026
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| UR | 33 |
| OBC | 21 |
| SC | 12 |
| ST | 06 |
| EWS | 08 |
| Total | 80 |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
For Civil Services (CSE):
Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
For Indian Forest Service (IFS):
Bachelor’s Degree with at least one of the following subjects:
Botany
Zoology
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics
Agriculture
Forestry
Engineering
Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
Geology
Statistics
Age Limit (As on 01 August 2026)
Minimum Age: 21 Years
Maximum Age: 32 Years
Age Relaxation
SC/ST – 5 Years
OBC – 3 Years
PwBD – Up to 10 Years
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100 |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Women | Nil |
Selection Process
Civil Services Examination (CSE)
Preliminary Examination
Main Examination
Interview / Personality Test
Document Verification
Indian Forest Service (IFS)
Preliminary Examination (Same as CSE)
IFS Main Examination
Interview / Personality Test
Medical & Physical Test
Preliminary Examination Pattern (Common for Both)
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Studies | 200 | 2 Hours |
| Paper II | CSAT | 200 | 2 Hours |
Key Points:
Objective type questions
Negative marking: 1/3rd deduction
CSAT is qualifying (33%)
Marks not counted in final merit
UPSC CSE Main Examination Pattern
| Paper | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper A | Indian Language | 300 (Qualifying) |
| Paper B | English | 300 (Qualifying) |
| Paper I | Essay | 250 |
| Paper II | GS I | 250 |
| Paper III | GS II | 250 |
| Paper IV | GS III | 250 |
| Paper V | GS IV | 250 |
| Paper VI | Optional I | 250 |
| Paper VII | Optional II | 250 |
Written Total: 1750 Marks
Interview: 275 Marks
Grand Total: 2025 Marks
UPSC IFS Main Examination Pattern
| Paper | Marks |
|---|---|
| General English | 300 |
| General Knowledge | 300 |
| Optional Subject Paper I | 200 |
| Optional Subject Paper II | 200 |
| Optional Subject Paper III | 200 |
| Optional Subject Paper IV | 200 |
Interview: 300 Marks
Total Merit: 1400 Marks
Salary Structure & Benefits
Civil Services Officers (IAS/IPS/IFS)
Starting Salary: ₹56,100/month (Level 10)
DA, HRA, Travel Allowance
Government Accommodation
Official Vehicle
Medical Facilities
Pension Benefits
Indian Forest Service Officers
Starting Salary: ₹56,100/month
Field Allowances
Risk Allowance
Government Housing
Vehicle Facility
Forest Duty Perks
- Civil Service - Click Here
- IFS - Click Here
- Apply Now - Click Here
Why Choose UPSC Careers?
High Prestige & Social Respect
Job Security
Attractive Salary
Authority & Decision-Making Power
Nationwide & International Exposure
Opportunity to Serve Society
Pension & Lifetime Benefits
Best Books for UPSC Preparation
For Prelims
Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth
Spectrum Modern History
NCERT Books (6–12)
Environment by Shankar IAS
For Mains
Ethics – Lexicon
Indian Economy – Ramesh Singh
Newspaper – The Hindu / Indian Express
For IFS Optional
Forestry – Khanna & Anderia
Agriculture – Nem Raj Sunda
Mock Tests & Preparation Tips
Attempt weekly mock tests
Follow current affairs daily
Practice answer writing
Revise NCERT books
Join test series if possible
Focus on time management
How to Apply Online
Visit the official UPSC website
Complete One-Time Registration
Fill Common Application Form
Upload photo & signature
Pay fee (if applicable)
Submit before last date
Download confirmation copy
Final Words
The UPSC Civil Services and Indian Forest Service examinations are not just recruitment tests; they are career-defining opportunities that shape the administrative and environmental future of the nation. With structured preparation, consistent practice, and determination, aspirants can secure one of the most prestigious government roles in India. These positions offer not only financial stability but also immense responsibility, respect, and the chance to create meaningful change in society. Candidates should carefully review eligibility criteria, stay updated with notifications, and begin preparation early to maximize their chances of success.
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