UPSC Indian Forest Service Recruitment 2026 Out for 80 Posts Apply Online

UPSC IFS 2026 Overview

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Indian Forest Service Examination to recruit officers for managing India's forests, wildlife, and environmental resources. For 2026, approximately 80 vacancies are available for eligible aspirants seeking a stable central government job. Applications are invited through the Civil Services (Preliminary) Exam route, with the process starting from February 4, 2026, and closing on February 24, 2026. Candidates must meet age and qualification criteria to apply. This exam tests knowledge in relevant subjects for roles in conservation and administration.

UPSC IFS Important Dates

• Notification Release Date: 4 February 2026
• Online Application Starts: 4 February 2026
• Last Date to Apply: 24 February 2026
• Last Date Fee Payment: 24 February 2026
• Exam Date Prelims: 24 May 2026
• Exam Date Prelims: 21 August 2026 Onwards
• Result Date: Check back soon on the official website.
• Candidates are advised to confirm from the official website.

UPSC IFS Application Fee

• General / OBC / EWS: Rs. 100/-
• SC / ST / PH:  Rs. 0/-
• Pay your fee online: debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI, whatever works for you.

UPSC IFS Vacancy Details

• Total vacancies: 80.

UPSC IFS Salary 2026

UPSC IFS Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor's degree with at least one subject from Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, Zoology; or Bachelor's in Agriculture, Forestry, or Engineering from a recognized university.
• Age Limit: 21 to 32 years as on 01/08/2026.
• Mandatory Requirement: Must meet physical standards as per notification.
• Age Relaxation: SC/ST - 5 years; OBC - 3 years; PwBD - 10 years; other categories as per rules.
• Any other official conditions: Maximum attempts: General - 6; OBC - 9; SC/ST - unlimited (within age limit).

UPSC IFS Selection Process 

1. Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination (Objective Type)
2. Indian Forest Service (Main) Examination (Written)
3. Final: Interview/Personality Test, followed by Medical and Physical Fitness Test

How to apply for the UPSC IFS

1. Visit the official UPSC application portal at upsconline.nic.in.
2. Complete One Time Registration (OTR) if not already registered.
3. Log in using your OTR ID, email, or mobile number.
4. Go to the Latest Notifications tab and select Indian Forest Service Examination 2026.
5. Fill the application form with personal, educational, and other details.
6. Upload scanned photo, signature, and required documents.
7. Pay the application fee online and submit the form, then download the confirmation page.