The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced that the notification for the UPSC IAS Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 and the Indian Forest Service Examination (IFoS) 2026 has been postponed. The notification was expected to be released today, January 14, 2026. However, it will now be released at a later date due to administrative reasons. This means students planning to apply for these important government exams will need to wait for the new announcement from UPSC.
The Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of India's toughest exams. It helps select officers for top government services like the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS). The Indian Forest Service Examination (IFoS) selects officers for the management of forests and wildlife. Both exams are conducted by the UPSC, the central body responsible for recruiting candidates to various government services in India.
Why Was the Notification Postponed?
UPSC stated that the postponement is due to "administrative reasons." This means there might be internal processes or official approvals that need more time. The commission has not given a new date yet for when the notification will come out. Students who were preparing for the application process should keep this change in mind.
What to Expect Next
UPSC will announce the new schedule for the IAS and IFoS 2026 notifications soon. Candidates must regularly check the official UPSC website, upsc.gov.in, for the latest updates. Once the new notification is released, it will contain all the necessary details about the exams.
Information in the New Notification:
- Total number of job openings (vacancies).
- Rules for who can apply (eligibility criteria). This includes details about age limits and educational qualifications.
- The subjects for the exam (syllabus).
- How the exam will be conducted (exam pattern).
Any changes to the exam details mentioned in the notification will need approval from the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
How to Apply for UPSC IAS 2026 (Once Dates are Announced)
After the new notification is released, the online application forms will become available. Students will be able to apply through the official website, upsconline.nic.in. The earlier planned last date for application was February 3, 2026, but this date is no longer valid due to the postponement.
Steps to Fill the Application Form:
- Many of your personal details might be filled automatically if you have registered before.
- You will need to pay the application fee. You can do this online using SBI Net Banking, debit card, or credit card. An offline option to pay by cash through an SBI bank challan will also be available.
- Candidates must upload clear scanned copies of their photograph, signature, and a photo ID card.
- You will choose your preferred exam center and confirm your fee payment details. If you are exempt from paying fees, this step will be different for you.
- Read all the instructions carefully. After understanding them, click on the 'I Agree' button to accept the declaration.
- A special registration number will be created for you and shown on the screen.
- It is important to write down this registration number or take a printout of the page for your records.
Students are advised to stay calm and continue their preparation. The UPSC will release the new dates and all details on its official website. Keep checking upsc.gov.in for accurate and timely information.
