The Union Public Service Commission has officially announced the UPSC Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination 2026, creating a major opportunity for medical graduates aiming to build a career in government healthcare services. Moreover, with more than 1300 vacancies across central departments and railways, this recruitment drive offers a stable and respected path for MBBS professionals seeking public sector roles.
UPSC CMS 2026 Recruitment Overview and Key Highlights
The Union Public Service Commission conducts the Combined Medical Services Examination every year to recruit qualified doctors for government medical services. Moreover, the 2026 notification has been released under Advertisement No. 09/2026-CMS. Additionally, the recruitment includes multiple medical officer posts in different central government departments.
Key Highlights:
• Conducting Authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
• Exam Name: Combined Medical Services Examination 2026
• Advertisement Number: 09/2026-CMS
• Total Vacancies: 1358 Posts
• Application Mode: Online
UPSC CMS 2026 Important Dates and Application Schedule
Meanwhile, candidates must carefully follow the official schedule announced by the commission. Therefore, applying early is strongly recommended to avoid last-minute issues and secure preferred exam centers.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 11 March 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 31 March 2026 (up to 06 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 31 March 2026 |
| UPSC CMS Exam Date | 02 August 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Before the Examination |
Consequently, candidates should complete the registration and payment process before the deadline to avoid disqualification.
UPSC CMS 2026 Application Fee Details
However, the commission provides fee exemptions for several categories of candidates. Additionally, female applicants and reserved category candidates do not need to pay the application fee.
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹200 |
| SC / ST / PH | ₹0 (Fee Exempted) |
| All Female Candidates | ₹0 (Fee Exempted) |
| Payment Mode | Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, E-Challan |
Payment Options:
• Debit Card
• Credit Card
• Net Banking
• E-Challan
UPSC CMS 2026 Vacancy Distribution Across Departments
Meanwhile, the recruitment offers opportunities in multiple government healthcare departments. Moreover, the majority of positions are available under the Central Health Service and Indian Railways medical divisions.
| Post Name | Number of Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Medical Officer Grade – Central Health Service | 864 Posts |
| Assistant Division Medical Officer – Railway | 450 Posts |
| General Duty Medical Officer Grade II – NDMS | 14 Posts |
| General Duty Medical Officer – Delhi Municipal Council | 30 Posts |
Departments Included:
• Central Health Service
• Indian Railways Medical Services
• New Delhi Municipal Council Medical Services
• Delhi Municipal Council Health Department
UPSC CMS 2026 Eligibility Criteria for MBBS Candidates
To apply for this examination, candidates must have completed an MBBS degree from any recognized university in India. Moreover, candidates who are currently appearing in the final year of the MBBS examination are also eligible to apply.
Eligibility Highlights:
• Candidates must possess an MBBS degree from a recognized university.
• Final year MBBS students can also apply.
• Internship requirements must be fulfilled before final appointment.
• Candidates should check the official notification for detailed eligibility rules.
UPSC CMS 2026 Age Limit and Relaxation Policy
However, applicants must meet the age criteria specified in the official notification. Additionally, reserved categories receive age relaxation according to government recruitment rules.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Age Limit | 32 Years |
| Date of Birth Requirement | Not earlier than 02 August 1994 |
| Age Relaxation | As per UPSC CMS 2026 Recruitment Rules |
Age Relaxation Benefits:
• SC / ST candidates receive relaxation as per government norms.
• OBC candidates are eligible for additional age relaxation.
• Persons with disabilities (PwD) receive special relaxation benefits.
How to Apply Online for UPSC CMS 2026 Examination
The application process is completely online. Therefore, candidates must complete the registration and form submission through the official UPSC portal.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
• Complete the One Time Registration (OTR) on the UPSC website.
• Fill the online application form between 11 March 2026 and 31 March 2026.
• Upload a live photograph during the application process.
• Select the preferred examination center early because seats are limited.
• Pay the application fee through the available payment methods.
• Review the form carefully before final submission.
• Download and print the final submitted application form for future reference.
Consequently, candidates who complete the process early avoid technical problems and ensure their application is successfully submitted.
FAQs
What is UPSC CMS 2026 recruitment?
UPSC Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination 2026 is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit medical officers in central government departments and railways.
How many vacancies are available in UPSC CMS 2026?
The UPSC CMS 2026 recruitment offers 1358 vacancies for various medical officer posts across central health services and Indian Railways.
What is the last date to apply for UPSC CMS 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 31 March 2026 up to 6:00 PM.
What is the eligibility for UPSC CMS 2026?
Candidates must have an MBBS degree from a recognized university. Final-year MBBS students are also eligible to apply.
What is the age limit for UPSC CMS 2026 exam?
The maximum age limit is 32 years, with age relaxation available for reserved categories as per government rules.
