The UPSC Combined Medical Services (CMS) Exam 2026 is one of the most sought-after government medical exams in India. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this exam recruits medical officers for various departments such as the Central Health Service (CHS), Railways, Municipal Corporations, and other government bodies. Unlike state medical services exams, UPSC CMS opens doors to all-India opportunities and prestigious medical posts at the central level.
If you are planning to appear for UPSC CMS 2026, it is crucial to know the official exam dates, notification schedule, application window, and important timelines. Correct awareness of these helps you structure your study plan, manage revision cycles, and complete the application process without last-minute hassles. Here’s a complete guide to UPSC CMS 2026 dates and what aspirants should expect.
UPSC CMS 2026 Official Exam Date
According to the UPSC exam calendar released for the year 2026, the UPSC CMS 2026 exam will be held on Sunday, 2nd August 2026. This date is scheduled for the written test, which consists of two papers conducted on the same day. Both papers assess a wide range of medical subjects and clinical knowledge essential for roles like Medical Officer and Assistant Divisional Medical Officer.
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The written exam is usually conducted in two sessions:
- Paper-1: General Medicine and Paediatrics
- Paper-2: Surgery, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine
This consolidated format tests candidate proficiency across various disciplines in a structured manner.
Notification and Application Schedule
For UPSC CMS 2026, the official notification and application process kicks off on 11th March 2026. UPSC will release the official notification on its website, which contains essential details such as eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, and the total number of vacancies for the year.
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The application window is also open from 11th March 2026 and remains active until 31st March 2026. Candidates must complete their registration and submit the UPSC CMS application form within this period to be eligible for the exam. Any application submitted after the deadline is not accepted under any circumstances.
Admit Card and Exam Preparation Dates
While the exact UPSC CMS 2026 admit card release date has not been announced yet, it is typically issued a few weeks before the exam. As the exam date is set for early August, candidates should expect admit cards to be available around late July 2026. UPSC issues admit cards via its official portal, and candidates need to download it using their registration credentials once it is released.
Having the correct exam date and admit card in hand is essential not only for entering the exam hall but also for verifying your exam centre details, reporting time, and printing important instructions directly from the document.
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Why UPSC CMS is Important for Medical Graduates
UPSC CMS is distinct from various state government medical service tests because it offers central government medical positions. Successful candidates are appointed in various government departments and receive stable salaries, allowances, and other government benefits.
Moreover, UPSC CMS provides a career path that combines clinical practice with administrative exposure. Many candidates prefer this exam over state medical services because the scope of work and mobility is broader at the central level.
How to Prepare After Knowing the Exam Date
Knowing the exact exam date helps you plan your UPSC CMS preparation effectively. Here are some recommended steps after the official date is announced:
- Create a Subject-wise Timetable: Break down the syllabus into smaller sections and allocate regular slots for each subject.
- Refer to Past Question Papers: Past year questions help identify important topics, recurring themes, and question trends.
- Revise Regularly: With the exam in August, ensure multiple revision cycles—first for understanding concepts, then for application.
- Take Mock Tests: Practice mock papers under timed conditions to simulate the real exam environment. Accelerate revision based on performance.
- Focus on High-Weightage Topics: Subjects like Preventive & Social Medicine often carry significant marks. Prioritizing them can boost your overall score.
Note that the exam pattern and syllabus remain consistent with previous years, but always check the official notification when it is released for any updates.
Eligibility Criteria Overview
To sit for UPSC CMS 2026, candidates must have completed their MBBS degree from a recognized university. They must also possess the required internship completion certificate by the date specified in the notification. Apart from educational qualifications, candidates must meet nationality requirements defined by UPSC, including Indian nationality or specific conditions for Nepalese and Bhutanese citizens.
Age limits and attempts are also governed by UPSC rules, so aspirants should check the full eligibility section of the official notification before applying.
Conclusion: Mark Your Calendar
For aspirants preparing for UPSC Combined Medical Services 2026, it is vital to mark your calendars with the following key dates:
- Notification Release: 11th March 2026
- Application Last Date: 31st March 2026
- UPSC CMS Exam Date: 2nd August 2026
These dates give you a clear roadmap to structure your preparation. Staying informed about official announcements and timelines will help you avoid confusion and focus fully on your studies. Always rely on the UPSC’s official website for final confirmations and updates as the exam approaches.

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