UPSC 2026 Exam Calendar: All Important Dates

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released its annual calendar for the year 2026. This calendar is crucial for lakhs of aspirants planning to take the various national-level examinations conducted by the commission.

📅 Highlights of UPSC 2026 Calendar

Here are the tentative dates for the most prestigious exams:

1. Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2026

• Date of Notification: January 28, 2026
• Last Date for Applications: February 17, 2026
• Date of Examination: May 24, 2026 (Sunday)

2. National Defence Academy (NDA) & Naval Academy (NA) Exam (I)

• Date of Notification: December 17, 2025
• Date of Examination: April 19, 2026

3. Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam (I)

• Date of Examination: April 19, 2026

4. Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Exam, 2026

• Date of Examination: May 24, 2026

💡 Preparation Strategy for 2026 Aspirants

1. Start Current Affairs Now: UPSC preparation requires at least 12-15 months of consistent current affairs tracking.
2. Master the NCERTs: Foundation is key. Ensure you have clear concepts from Class 6 to 12.
3. Optional Subject Selection: By mid-2025, you should have decided on your optional subject for the Mains.
4. Answer Writing Practice: Don't wait for the Prelims to pass. Start writing at least one answer every week.

Stay updated with ResultHub for detailed subject-wise strategies and free notes!