UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS) Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 80 Vacancies

Are you passionate about nature and looking for a prestigious career in the civil services? The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the Indian Forest Service Examination (IFSE), 2026. This is a golden opportunity for graduates in science and engineering to join one of India’s most elite services.

Quick Job Overview

• Organization: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

• Exam Name: Indian Forest Service Examination, 2026

• Total Vacancies: Approximately 80

• Application Mode: Online only

• Selection Process: Prelims (via Civil Services Prelims), Mains, and Interview

  Important Dates to Remember

To ensure your application is successful, mark these critical dates in your calendar:

• Notification Date: February 4, 2026

• Last Date to Apply: February 24, 2026 (until 6:00 PM

• Preliminary Exam Date: May 24, 2026

Category-Wise Vacancy Breakup

While the number of vacancies is subject to change, the current expected distribution is as follows:

• Unreserved (UR): 33

• Other Backward Classes (OBC): 21

• Scheduled Caste (SC): 12

• Economically Weaker Section (EWS): 08

• Scheduled Tribe (ST): 06

Note: 5 vacancies are reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD).

Are You Eligible?

Before applying, ensure you meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Qualification

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least one of these subjects:

• Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, or Zoology.

• Alternatively, a degree in Agriculture, Forestry, or Engineering from a recognized university.

2. Age Limit (as of August 1, 2026)

• Minimum Age: 21 years

• Maximum Age: 32 years (must be born between August 2, 1994, and August 1, 2005).

• Age Relaxation: Standard government relaxations apply for SC/ST (5 years), OBC (3 years), and PwBD (up to 10 years) .

3. Number of Attempts

• General/EWS: 6 attempts

• OBC: 9 attempts

• SC/ST: No restriction (within age limits)

  Application Fee

• General/OBC/EWS Male Candidates: ₹100

• Female/SC/ST/PwBD Candidates: Exempted (Fee-Free)

How to Apply for UPSC IFS 2026

1. Visit the official UPSC application portal: upsconline.nic.in.

2. Complete your Universal Registration Number (URN) profile if you haven’t already.

3. Fill out the Common Application Form (CAF).

4. Capture and upload a live photograph and signature as per specifications.

5. Pay the fee (if applicable) and select your preferred exam center.

6. Submit and print your application for future reference.

Selection Process

The IFSE involves three distinct stages:

1. Stage I (Preliminary): Objective type screening test (shared with Civil Services).

2. Stage II (Main): Written examination.

3. Stage III (Personality Test): Final interview for shortlisted candidates.

Important Links