IFoS Notification 2026 PDF Out – Date, Vacancy, Apply Online

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) officially released the Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Notification 2026 on February 4, 2026, inviting applications for one of India’s most prestigious environmental administrative roles. While the Civil Services and IFoS share a common Preliminary Examination scheduled for May 24, 2026, the IFoS stands out with its specialized educational requirements in science and engineering and a distinct Mains format. Aspirants can download the official PDF from the UPSC website to review the specific eligibility criteria and the tentative vacancy count, which traditionally complements the 933 seats announced for the Civil Services. The deadline for online registration is February 24, 2026, making it essential for candidates to complete their One Time Registration (OTR) and application promptly to secure their preferred exam centre.

IFoS Notification 2026 Out

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) officially released the Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Notification 2026on February 4, 2026, alongside the Civil Services announcement. This year’s recruitment cycle offers a dedicated path for science and engineering graduates to enter the elite forest bureaucracy, with the online application window closing on February 24, 2026. Candidates must successfully clear the common Preliminary Exam on May 24, 2026, to qualify for the IFoS Mains, which features a distinct descriptive pattern focused on scientific rigor. With a competitive vacancy count and specialised eligibility criteria, the 2026 notification serves as the essential blueprint for aspirants aiming to protect India’s ecological heritage.

IFoS Notification 2026 Overview

Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Examination 2026 is a national-level recruitment exam conducted by UPSC. It selects Group A Forest Service Officers who work in forest conservation, wildlife protection, and environmental management. The selection process includes Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Selected candidates receive professional training at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA), Dehradun.

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IFoS Notification Download Links

IFoS Notification 2026 PDF is an important document for all candidates. It provides official details related to the UPSC exam authentication process, eligibility rules, syllabus, exam pattern, and application instructions. Candidates can download IFoS Notification 2026 PDF online from the UPSC website or below

IFoS Important Dates 2026

Understanding the IFoS Important Dates 2026 is vital for timely application and preparation. The Union Public Service Commission announces these dates to help candidates plan their exam journey. Missing any deadline can impact your candidature. Stay updated with the official schedule to ensure you meet all requirements.

IFoS Notification 2026 Vacancy

The Union Public Service Commission has announced 150 vacancies for the Indian Forest Service (IFoS) as part of the consolidated 2026 notification. While the IFoS vacancies are separate from the 933 posts allotted to the Civil Services (CSE), both recruitments share a common Preliminary Examination on May 24, 2026. This year’s intake follows the recent trend of strong recruitment in the environmental sector, with specific reservations maintained for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PwBD categories. Aspiring forest officers must ensure they meet the rigorous technical eligibility criteria, as these seats are highly sought after by those with backgrounds in science, engineering, and forestry.

IFoS Eligibility Criteria 2026

Candidates must meet the UPSC IFoS Eligibility Criteria 2026 to apply for the examination. These criteria ensure only qualified individuals compete for the Indian Forest Service. Fulfillment of all conditions is mandatory.

Nationality

Candidate must be a citizen of India. Subjects of Nepal or Bhutan may also apply. Tibetan refugees and Persons of Indian origin are eligible under specific conditions with an eligibility certificate.

Age Limit

Candidates must be between 21 and 32 years old as of August 1, 2026. Age relaxation applies to certain categories as per government rules.

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Educational Qualification

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in at least one of the following subjects: Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, or Zoology. Alternatively, a degree in Agriculture, Forestry, or Engineering from a recognized university is accepted.

IFoS Application Process 2026

The Indian Forest Service application process 2026 is fully online.. Candidates should follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful application.

Steps to Apply Online:

• Visit the official website – upsc.gov.in.
• Click “Apply Online” for UPSC IFoS Exam 2026.
• Complete the One Time Registration (OTR) if not already registered.
• Fill in all required personal and academic details in the application form.
• Upload scanned documents, including photograph and signature, as specified.
• Pay the application fee through the available online payment options.
• Review the filled form for any errors and submit it.
• Print the confirmation page for your records and future reference.

Application Fee

The application fee varies by category. Review the official notification for exact amounts and payment methods.

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IFoS Selection Process 2026

The Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Selection Process 2026 involves distinct stages. Candidates must successfully clear each stage to be considered for final selection.

1. Preliminary Examination: This is a qualifying stage. It comprises two objective-type papers.
2. Mains Examination: This stage has six descriptive papers. Scores from the Mains Exam count towards the final merit list.
3. Interview (Personality Test): Candidates who clear Mains proceed to an interview. This assesses overall suitability for the service.
4. Document Verification: All submitted documents are verified for authenticity and compliance with eligibility criteria.

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