UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS) Exam 2026 – 80 Posts, Online Apply
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination 2026 to recruit eligible candidates for prestigious forest and environmental services across India. Interested candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can apply online through the official UPSC website before the deadline.
The Indian Forest Service is one of the most respected government careers, offering excellent salary, job security, and the opportunity to work in wildlife conservation and forest management.
Latest Update
UPSC has announced the Indian Forest Service Exam 2026 with approximately 80 vacancies. Candidates are advised to review the official notification and apply online at the earliest.
📊 Recruitment Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission |
| Exam Name | Indian Forest Service Exam 2026 |
| Posts | 80 |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Age Limit | 21–32 Years |
| Selection Process | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | https://www.upsc.gov.in |
📊 Vacancy Details
UPSC aims to fill approximately 80 posts through the Indian Forest Service Examination 2026.
📅 Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | February 2026 |
| Starting Date to Apply | 4th February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24th February 2026, 6 PM |
| Prelims Exam | May/June 2026 |
💰 Application Fee
General/OBC: ₹100
SC/ST/PwBD/Female: Exempted
🎓 Educational Qualification
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with at least one of the following subjects:
Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
Botany
Chemistry
Geology
Mathematics
Physics
Statistics
Zoology
Agriculture
Forestry
Engineering
inal-year students may also apply, provided they submit proof of passing before the Main examination.
✅ UPSC IFS Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
Nationality: Indian
Qualification: Graduate with relevant science subjects
- Age Limit: 21–32 years
Age relaxation applies as per government norms.
Who Should Apply?
Graduates from science or engineering backgrounds
Candidates interested in wildlife and environmental protection
Aspirants seeking prestigious central government jobs
Individuals looking for stable careers with high growth
🎂 Age Limit (as on 01-08-2026)
Minimum Age: 21 Years
Maximum Age: 32 Years
Age Relaxation:
OBC: 3 Years
SC/ST: 5 Years
PwBD: 10 Years
🎯 Attempt Limit
General: 6 attempts
OBC: 9 attempts
SC/ST: Unlimited (within age limit
🏛️ Services Offered Through IFS
Selected candidates will be appointed as Indian Forest Service Officers, responsible for:
Forest conservation
Wildlife protection
Environmental management
Implementation of government policies
💰 Salary Structure
Selected candidates will receive salary as per the 7th Pay Commission.
Starting Salary: ₹56,100/month
Senior Level: Up to ₹2,25,000/month
Additional Benefits:
✔️ Government accommodation
✔️ Travel allowances
✔️ Medical facilities
✔️ Pension benefits
✔️ Job security
🎁 Job Benefits
✔️ Prestigious Group A service
✔️ Opportunity to work in nature and wildlife sectors
✔️ Strong career growth
✔️ Work-life balance
✔️ Social respect
🧪 Selection Process
The selection will be conducted in three stages:
1️⃣ Preliminary Examination (conducted along with Civil Services Prelims)
2️⃣ Main Examination (written)
3️⃣ Personality Test / Interview
📊 UPSC IFS Prelims Exam Pattern 2026
Paper 1: General Studies – 200 Marks
Paper 2: CSAT – 200 Marks
Both papers are objective type.
Negative marking applicable.
👉 Only qualified candidates can appear for the Main exam.
📊 UPSC IFS Mains Exam Pattern
Written examination with multiple papers
Includes General English, General Knowledge, and optional subjects
Followed by Interview
📚 Preparation Resources
Candidates preparing for UPSC IFS can use the following resources:
NCERT Books
Previous Year Question Papers
Mock Tests
Standard reference books
📄 Documents Required
Candidates should keep the following documents ready before applying:
Recent passport-size photograph
Signature
Graduation certificate
Valid ID proof
Category certificate (if applicable)
📝 How to Apply for UPSC IFS Exam 2026
Follow these steps:
Visit the official UPSC website 👉 https://www.upsc.gov.in
Click on Apply Online.
Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR).
Fill out the application form carefully.
Upload required documents.
Pay the application fee (if applicable).
Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
Important Instructions for Applicants
✔️ Apply before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
✔️ Double-check all details before submission.
✔️ Keep documents ready in the required format.
✔️ Start preparation early due to high competition.
Important Web-Links of UPSC Forest Service Exam
| Online Application Form | Click Here |
| Recommended Books | Click Here |
| Advertisement Details | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
❓ FAQs – UPSC Indian Forest Service 2026
Q1. How many vacancies are available in UPSC IFS 2026?
👉 Around 80 posts are expected.
Q2. What qualification is required for the IFS exam?
👉 A Bachelor’s degree with science-related subjects is required.
Q3. What is the age limit for UPSC IFS?
👉 Candidates must be between 21 and 32 years.
Q4. What is the selection process?
👉 Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
Q5. Is the IFS exam conducted every year?
👉 Yes, UPSC conducts the Indian Forest Service Examination annually.
Conclusion
The UPSC Indian Forest Service Exam 2026 is an excellent opportunity for candidates passionate about environmental conservation and government service. With 80 expected vacancies, aspirants should review the eligibility criteria and complete the application process before the last date.
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