UPSC Indian Forest Service Recruitment 2026 notification released. Check eligibility, age limit, salary, exam date, application process, and apply online before 24 February 2026.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination 2026. Candidates who want to build a prestigious career in environmental administration and forest management can now apply online.
The application process is completely online, and interested candidates must submit their forms before the deadline. The preliminary examination will be conducted on 24 May 2026. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
This recruitment is one of the most respected government career opportunities in India, offering excellent salary packages, job stability, and long-term growth.
Candidates are strongly advised to read the full eligibility criteria before applying to avoid rejection at later stages.
Govt Job at 16 Years? Know the Reality Before You Apply
UPSC IFS 2026 Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Indian Forest Service Examination 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | Union Public Service Commission |
| Total Vacancies | Approx. 80 Posts |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 February 2026 |
| Preliminary Exam Date | 24 May 2026 |
| Selection Process | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
| Job Location | Across India |
| Apply Now | Click Here |
The online application must be submitted through the UPSC portal only, as no other mode is accepted. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Important Dates
- Notification Release Date: 04 February 2026
- Application Start Date: 04 February 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM) Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
- Preliminary Exam: 24 May 2026 Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Candidates should apply early because exam centers are allotted on a first-apply-first basis. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Vacancy Details
The number of vacancies expected to be filled through the examination is approximately 80 posts, although this number may change depending on government requirements. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Category-wise Vacancy (Expected)
- UR: 33
- OBC: 21
- EWS: 8
- SC: 12
- ST: 6
Reservation is provided according to government norms.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility conditions because verification happens during later stages of the recruitment process.
Nationality
A candidate must be:
- A citizen of India, OR
- A subject of Nepal/Bhutan, OR
- A Tibetan refugee who settled in India before January 1, 1962, OR
- A person of Indian origin migrating from specified countries with the intention of permanent settlement. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Educational Qualification
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with at least one of the following subjects:
- Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Statistics
- Zoology
OR a degree in:
- Agriculture
- Forestry
- Engineering
from a recognized university. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Students appearing in their final qualifying exam are also eligible but must produce proof before the interview stage. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Age Limit (As on 1 August 2026)
- Minimum Age: 21 Years
- Maximum Age: 32 Years Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Age Relaxation
- SC/ST – 5 Years
- OBC – 3 Years
- Ex-servicemen – 5 Years
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities – Up to 10 Years Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
The date of birth recorded in the matriculation certificate will be considered final.
Number of Attempts
- General Category – 6 Attempts
- OBC – 9 Attempts
- SC/ST – Unlimited attempts within the age limit Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
An appearance in the preliminary exam counts as an attempt.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS (Male) | ₹100 |
| Female | No Fee |
| SC / ST | No Fee |
| PwBD | No Fee |
Payment can be made via net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Fee once paid is non-refundable.
Selection Process
The Indian Forest Service Examination consists of two major stages:
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
- Objective-type papers
- Acts as a screening test
Stage 2: Main Examination + Interview
- Written exam with multiple papers
- Personality test carrying 300 marks Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Final ranking is based on marks obtained in the Main Examination and Interview.
Exam Pattern
Preliminary Exam
- Two papers
- Objective type
- Total 400 marks Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
There is negative marking for incorrect answers.
Main Examination
The written exam includes:
- General English – 300 Marks
- General Knowledge – 300 Marks
- Optional Subjects (Two Subjects, Four Papers)
Each optional paper carries 200 marks. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Optional Subjects List
Candidates can choose from subjects such as:
- Agriculture
- Forestry
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Zoology
- Statistics
- Geology
Certain subject combinations are not allowed as per UPSC rules. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Salary of Indian Forest Service Officer
IFS officers receive attractive pay under the 7th Pay Commission.
Expected Salary Structure:
- Starting Salary: ₹56,100 per month
- With allowances, the monthly package can exceed ₹80,000 – ₹1,00,000.
Senior officers earn significantly more along with perks like:
- Government housing
- Official vehicle
- Medical benefits
- Pension
- Paid leaves
This makes IFS one of the most desirable careers in India.
Exam Centers
The preliminary exam will be conducted across multiple cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Raipur, and many more nationwide. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Candidates should apply early to secure their preferred center.
How to Apply for UPSC IFS Recruitment 2026
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official UPSC online portal.
- Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR).
- Fill out the Common Application Form.
- Upload required documents including photo and signature.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation.
Applications submitted without required documents may be rejected. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
👉 Candidates must apply online only; no offline applications are accepted. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Mobile phones and electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
- Candidates must reach the center at least 30 minutes before the exam. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
- Admit cards will be available online; they will not be sent by post. Notif-IFSP-26-Engl-040226
Failure to follow guidelines may lead to disqualification.
Why Choose Indian Forest Service?
IFS officers play a crucial role in:
- Wildlife conservation
- Environmental protection
- Forest management
- Climate policy
It is not just a job — it is a prestigious national service.
Official Notification PDF
Candidates should carefully read the official notification before applying:
👉Download Official Notification PDF
Conclusion
UPSC Indian Forest Service Recruitment 2026 offers a golden opportunity for graduates who want a respected and secure government career. With excellent salary, authority, and long-term benefits, this exam attracts thousands of aspirants every year.
Interested candidates should apply before 24 February 2026 and start preparing early to improve their chances of success.
Government jobs like IFS provide not only financial stability but also an opportunity to serve the nation and protect its natural resources.
FAQs
What is the last date to apply for UPSC IFS 2026?
24 February 2026.
How many vacancies are available?
Around 80 posts.
What is the age limit?
21 to 32 years with category relaxation.
Is there negative marking?
Yes, one-third marks are deducted for wrong answers.
Can final-year students apply?
Yes, but proof of qualification is required later.