UPSC 2026 UPDATES: UPSC Prelims Dates Announced, Check Vacancies and other Details

The Union Public Services Commission (UPSC) released the notification for Prelims 2026 exam on February 4, 2026. According to the notification, the UPSC Prelims 2026 exam is scheduled to take place on May 24th, 2026. A total of 933 vacancies have been released for the upcoming 2026 session. 

Important Dates:

How to Apply? 

• Go to the official website of UPSC, i.e., www.upsc.gov.in.

• Go to “Active Examinations” tab and then click on “Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2026” and then click “Apply Online”

• Register by entering your personal details like name, DOB, educational qualifications, contact details, photo, etc. 

• After registration, you will be directed to the “Fee Payment” page. Pay the required fees

• Upload your photograph and signature and accept the declaration. 

• Submit the form and save the application form for future references. 

Category-Wise Break-up UPSC Prelims 2026 Vacancies:

The following table provides a category-wise break-up of the vacancies for the UPSC Prelims 2026:

Conclusion:

With just days left for the UPSC Prelims 2026 exam, switch from a “hard-working” to a “smart-working” mode by focusing on high-yield topics. 

Double down on your UPSC Prelims preparation with the best UPSC Prelims reference books exclusively available by Disha Publications. 

For insights into smart preparation strategies for last-minute revision, read the following blog:

Revision Hacks for UPSC Preparation – How to ace last-minute revision like toppers

FAQs  

Q1. When will the UPSC Prelims 2026 be conducted?
Ans. The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026 is scheduled for 24 May 2026 (Sunday). It is the first stage of the UPSC Civil Services Examination, screening candidates for the Mains and Interview rounds.

Q2. How many vacancies are announced for UPSC Civil Services 2026?
Ans. The Union Public Service Commission has announced around 933 vacancies for the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026. These vacancies include prestigious services like the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service, and Indian Foreign Service.

Q3. What are the stages of the UPSC Civil Services Examination?
Ans. The UPSC Civil Services Examination is conducted in three stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Personality Test (Interview). Candidates must clear each stage to secure a final rank and service allocation.

Q4. When will the UPSC Mains 2026 examination begin?
Ans. The UPSC Main Examination 2026 is expected to begin on 21 August 2026. Only candidates who qualify in the UPSC preliminary examination will be eligible to appear for this descriptive written exam.

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