Published: February 10, 2026
The Union Public Service Commission has opened applications for the Indian Forest Service Examination 2026, offering opportunities for approximately 80 officer positions. Aspiring candidates can submit their online applications starting February 4, 2026, through the commission’s official portal.
Quick Overview
The examination serves as a gateway to prestigious forest service careers, with the application window remaining open until February 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Candidates meeting the educational criteria can apply through the designated online platform at upsc.gov.in.
Position Distribution by Category
| Category | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Unreserved | 33 |
| Other Backward Classes | 21 |
| Scheduled Caste | 12 |
| Scheduled Tribe | 06 |
| Economically Weaker Section | 08 |
| Total Posts | 80 |
Educational Requirements
Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree featuring at least one of these subjects:
- Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
- Agriculture
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Engineering
- Forestry
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Statistics
- Zoology
Age Criteria
Reference Date: August 1, 2026
AGE ELIGIBILITY CALCULATOR : CLICK HERE
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 21 years |
| Maximum Age | 32 years |
| SC/ST Relaxation | 5 years |
| OBC Relaxation | 3 years |
| PwBD Relaxation | Up to 10 years |
Application Fee Structure
| Candidate Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General/OBC/EWS | ₹100 |
| SC/ST/PwBD/Women | No Fee |
Selection Methodology
The recruitment process comprises multiple stages:
- Preliminary Examination – Common with Civil Services Exam 2026
- Main Written Examination – Indian Forest Service specific
- Personality Test – Interview round
- Medical & Physical Fitness – Final assessment
Preliminary Exam Structure (Combined with CSE)
| Paper | Subject Area | Maximum Marks | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Studies | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper II | CSAT (Qualifying) | 200 | 2 hours |
Important Notes:
- Paper II requires minimum 33% to qualify
- Wrong answers carry 1/3rd negative marking
- Preliminary scores don’t count toward final selection
Main Examination Pattern
| Paper Name | Marks |
|---|---|
| General English | 300 |
| General Knowledge | 300 |
| Optional Subject – I | 200 |
| Optional Subject – II | 200 |
| Optional Subject – III | 200 |
| Optional Subject – IV | 200 |
Final Assessment
- Personality Test: 300 marks
- Total Merit Calculation: 1,400 marks
Key Dates Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | February 4, 2026 |
| Application Opening | February 4, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | February 24, 2026 (6:00 PM) |
| Preliminary Exam | May 24, 2026 |
How to Submit Your Application
Follow these steps to apply:
- Navigate to upsconline.nic.in
- Complete one-time registration to obtain URN
- Fill the Common Application Form (CAF)
- Select “Indian Forest Service Examination”
- Upload required documents (photograph, signature)
- Submit applicable fee
- Submit before the February 24 deadline
Important Links
- Online Application Portal: upsconline.nic.in/exam-apply
- Official Notification: upsc.gov.in/sites/default/files/Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226.pdf
- Official Website: www.upsc.gov.in
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the application window close? Applications must be submitted by February 24, 2026, before 6:00 PM through the UPSC online portal.
How many vacancies are being offered? The commission has announced approximately 80 positions across various reservation categories.
Is this exam separate from the Civil Services? Candidates must clear the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026, which acts as the screening test for entry into the IFS Main Examination.
What degrees qualify for this examination? A bachelor’s degree containing at least one specified subject including Forestry, Agriculture, Engineering, or related natural sciences is required.
What is the permissible age range? Candidates must be between 21 and 32 years as of August 1, 2026, with relaxations available for reserved categories.
How many attempts are permitted? General/EWS candidates receive 6 attempts, OBC candidates get 9 attempts, while SC/ST candidates face no attempt limit within the age boundary.
What is the fee structure? General, OBC, and EWS candidates pay ₹100, while SC/ST/PwBD/Women applicants are exempt from fees.
When will the preliminary exam occur? The Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026, serving as the IFS screening test, is scheduled for May 24, 2026.
What does the selection process involve? The process includes the Preliminary Exam, IFS Main Written Examination, Personality Test, and Medical/Physical Fitness assessment.
Where should candidates apply? Eligible individuals can apply exclusively online via upsconline.nic.in.
This recruitment represents a significant opportunity for qualified individuals to serve in India’s forest administration. Interested candidates should ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and submit their applications well before the deadline.