The UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Exam is a competitive examination organized by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit officers for forest management and environmental governance. This page provides detailed information about the exam pattern for 2026 along with the syllabus and preparation tips.
UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Exam Pattern 2026: Download: Exam Pattern
| Stage | Papers | Type | Total Marks | Duration | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prelims | GS Paper I + CSAT Paper II | Objective | 400 | 4 hours (2+2) | Qualifying |
| Mains | 6 Papers (2 Compulsory + 4 Optional) | Descriptive | 1400 | 3 hours each | Merit |
| Interview | Personality Test | Oral | 300 | – | Final Merit |

Syllabus
Preliminary Examination
- Paper I: General Studies – 200 marks, Objective MCQ, 2 hours
- Paper II: CSAT – 200 marks, Objective MCQ, 2 hours (Minimum 33% required)
Mains Examination
- Paper I: General English – 300 marks
- Paper II: General Knowledge – 300 marks
- Papers III to VI: Two optional subjects (2 papers each, 200 marks per paper)
Optional Subjects
- Agriculture
- Agricultural Engineering
- Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Forestry
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Physics
- Statistics
- Zoology
Preparation Tips
To prepare effectively for the UPSC IFoS Exam 2026, it is essential to thoroughly understand the exam pattern. Focus on strengthening your foundation for the Prelims, as it is common with IAS. Practice CSAT regularly to ensure you meet the minimum qualifying criteria. Choose your optional subjects wisely based on your background, and enhance your answer writing skills for the Mains. Stay updated with current affairs related to forestry and the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the total number of marks for the UPSC IFoS Exam?
The total marks for the UPSC IFoS Exam is 1700, which includes 1400 marks for Mains and 300 marks for the Interview.
2. What subjects are included in the Mains examination?
The Mains examination includes General English, General Knowledge, and two optional subjects.
3. How long is the duration of the Prelims examination?
The duration of the Prelims examination is 4 hours, divided into 2 hours for each paper.
4. Is there negative marking in the Prelims?
Yes, there is negative marking in the Prelims, with 1/3rd marks deducted for each incorrect answer.
5. What is the minimum qualifying mark for the CSAT paper?
The minimum qualifying mark for the CSAT paper is 33%.
मुख्य जानकारी हिंदी में
- UPSC IFoS परीक्षा 2026 के लिए आयोजित की जा रही है।
- परीक्षा में कुल 1700 अंक हैं।
- प्रारंभिक परीक्षा में 400 अंक हैं और यह केवल योग्यता के लिए है।
- मुख्य परीक्षा में 6 पेपर होते हैं, जिनमें से 2 अनिवार्य हैं।
- CSAT पेपर के लिए न्यूनतम 33% अंक आवश्यक हैं।
| UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFoS) Exam Pattern 2026: Download – Important Links | |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Click Here |