The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the UPSC Annual Exam Calendar 2026 on 15 May 2025. The calendar is now available on the official website and includes exam dates, notification release dates, and duration for various exams such as CSE, NDA, CDS, Engineering Services, and more. Candidates waiting for this calendar can now start preparing based on the schedule provided.
Overview
The UPSC Annual Calendar is a yearly release that outlines the schedule of all the major recruitment exams conducted by the Commission. It helps aspirants plan and prepare for the exams well in advance. The 2026 calendar includes details for over 25 different exams, offering candidates clarity on when each stage of the process will take place.
CSE Exam
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 is scheduled in two phases:
- Preliminary Exam: 24 May 2026 (Sunday)
- Main Exam: 18 September 2026 (Friday), lasting 5 days
Candidates should prepare accordingly and mark these key dates in their calendars.
Post-wise Calendar
The calendar includes detailed information about all exams conducted by UPSC. Here’s a quick look at some of the major exams with their dates:
| Exam Name | Notification Date | Last Date | Exam Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSE (Prelims) | 11 Feb 2026 | 3 Mar 2026 | 24 May 2026 | 1 Day |
| CSE (Mains) | — | — | 18 Sep 2026 | 5 Days |
| NDA & NA (I) | 30 Dec 2025 | 20 Jan 2026 | 12 Apr 2026 | 1 Day |
| NDA & NA (II) | 20 May 2026 | 9 Jun 2026 | 6 Sep 2026 | 1 Day |
| CDS (I) | 30 Dec 2025 | 20 Jan 2026 | 12 Apr 2026 | 1 Day |
| CDS (II) | 20 May 2026 | 9 Jun 2026 | 6 Sep 2026 | 1 Day |
| Engineering Services (Prelims) | 17 Sep 2025 | 7 Oct 2025 | 8 Feb 2026 | 1 Day |
| Engineering Services (Mains) | — | — | 28 Jun 2026 | 1 Day |
| Indian Forest Service (Prelims) | 11 Feb 2026 | 3 Mar 2026 | 24 May 2026 | 1 Day |
| Indian Forest Service (Mains) | — | — | 21 Nov 2026 | 10 Days |
| CAPF (ACs) | 18 Feb 2026 | 10 Mar 2026 | 9 Aug 2026 | 1 Day |
| Combined Medical Services | 18 Mar 2026 | 7 Apr 2026 | 23 Aug 2026 | 1 Day |
The complete list also includes examinations like IES/ISS, CISF AC(EXE) LDCE, S.O./Steno, Geo-Scientist, and multiple dates reserved for UPSC recruitment tests.
Download
Candidates can download the UPSC Calendar 2026 PDF using the following methods:
- Visit the UPSC website at https://www.upsc.gov.in
- Navigate to the “Examinations” tab and select “Calendar”
- Click on the “UPSC Annual Exam Calendar 2026” link
- The calendar will open in PDF format
- Download and save it for future reference
Alternatively, a direct download link has been shared in the article for ease of access.
Steps to Download
- Go to the official UPSC website: https://www.upsc.gov.in
- Click on the “Examinations” tab in the top menu
- Select “Calendar” from the dropdown
- Find and click “UPSC Annual Exam Calendar 2026”
- Download the PDF to your device
- Review all exam schedules and deadlines
This annual calendar is a critical resource for all UPSC aspirants. It not only gives you key dates but also helps you structure your preparation with ample time for revision and practice. Make sure to cross-check dates occasionally on the UPSC website in case of updates or changes.
FAQs
When is UPSC CSE Prelims 2026?
It will be held on 24 May 2026.
When will UPSC CSE Mains start?
The mains will start on 18 September 2026.
How to download UPSC calendar PDF?
Visit upsc.gov.in and check the calendar section.
Is NDA exam date included in calendar?
Yes, NDA I is on 12 April and NDA II on 6 September.
What is the date for CDS Exam II?
CDS II will be held on 6 September 2026.
