The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has once again opened the doors of opportunity for aspirants across India with the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026 notification. If you dream of a secure government career in the field of geology, chemistry, and related sciences, this is the chance you cannot afford to miss! The online application process has officially begun, and candidates must act fast as the last date to apply is September 23, 2025.
In this detailed guide, we will walk you through every aspect of the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026, including eligibility, exam pattern, selection process, fee structure, and application procedure. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to maximize your chances of cracking this highly competitive exam.
🔑 Why Choose UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026?
The UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination is one of the most respected recruitment drives for candidates aspiring to work in specialized scientific roles. Through this exam, UPSC selects deserving candidates for prestigious Group ‘A’ posts in government departments like the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB).
Some of the reasons why aspirants flock to this exam every year are:
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Prestigious Career: Secure a top-tier central government job.
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Attractive Salary & Benefits: Get paid under the 7th Pay Commission along with allowances.
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Nationwide Recognition: Work in highly reputed organizations.
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Challenging Roles: Contribute directly to research, survey, and policy in earth sciences.
📅 Important Dates for UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026
Candidates must keep track of the deadlines to avoid last-minute rush:
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Notification Release Date: September 8, 2025
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Online Application Start Date: September 8, 2025
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Last Date to Apply Online: September 23, 2025
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Preliminary Examination Date: Expected in February 2026
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Mains Examination Date: Likely in June 2026
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Interview/Personality Test: Later in 2026 (exact dates to be announced)
📌 Posts and Services under UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Exam
Through this recruitment, candidates are appointed to Group A Gazetted posts in the following categories:
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Geological Survey of India (GSI), Ministry of Mines
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Geologist Group ‘A’
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Geophysicist Group ‘A’
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Chemist Group ‘A’
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Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Ministry of Water Resources
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Scientist ‘B’ (Hydrogeology) Group ‘A’
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Scientist ‘B’ (Chemical) Group ‘A’
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Scientist ‘B’ (Geophysics) Group ‘A’
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These roles involve specialized scientific expertise, research, and field-based responsibilities.
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility standards.
1. Nationality
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Must be a citizen of India, or
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A subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or
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Tibetan refugee (arrived in India before 1st January 1962), or
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Person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries.
2. Age Limit (as on 1st January 2026)
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Minimum: 21 years
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Maximum: 32 years
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Relaxations:
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SC/ST: 5 years
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OBC: 3 years
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PwBD: 10 years
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3. Educational Qualifications
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Geologists Group ‘A’ – Master’s degree in Geological Science/Geology/Applied Geology/Geo-Exploration/Mineral Exploration.
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Geophysicist Group ‘A’ – M.Sc. in Physics/Applied Physics/Geophysics/Marine Geophysics.
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Chemist Group ‘A’ – M.Sc. in Chemistry/Applied Chemistry/Analytical Chemistry.
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Scientist ‘B’ (Hydrogeology) – Master’s degree in Geology/Applied Geology/Hydrogeology.
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Scientist ‘B’ (Geophysics) – M.Sc. in Physics/Applied Physics/Geophysics.
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Scientist ‘B’ (Chemical) – M.Sc. in Chemistry/Applied Chemistry.
📝 Exam Pattern of UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination
The exam is conducted in three stages:
Stage I: Preliminary Exam (Objective Type)
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Two Papers (Paper I & II)
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Duration: 2 hours each
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Mode: Online (Computer-Based Test)
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Negative marking for wrong answers.
Stage II: Main Exam (Descriptive Type)
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Three Papers for each category of posts.
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Duration: 3 hours each.
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Subjects vary based on specialization.
Stage III: Personality Test/Interview
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Carried out for shortlisted candidates.
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Maximum Marks: 200
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Focuses on personality, communication, and subject knowledge.
💰 Application Fee
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General / OBC / EWS: ₹200
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Female / SC / ST / PwBD: Exempted from fee
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Payment Modes: Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card, UPI, or cash deposit at SBI branches.
📑 How to Apply Online for UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2026
Candidates can follow these steps:
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Visit the official UPSC website – www.upsc.gov.in.
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Click on “Apply Online” under the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026 section.
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Register by providing basic details (Part-I Registration).
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Fill in educational, communication, and other required details (Part-II Registration).
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Upload scanned copies of passport-size photo, signature, and ID proof.
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Pay the application fee online/offline as per eligibility.
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Download and save a copy of the application form for future reference.
⚡ Pro Tips to Crack UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026
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Understand the Syllabus: Focus on your core subject (Geology, Chemistry, Physics).
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Practice Mock Tests: Regular practice of previous year papers will boost confidence.
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Stay Updated: Keep an eye on UPSC’s latest notifications.
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Balance Preparation: Give equal importance to both prelims and mains.
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Work on Writing Skills: For descriptive mains papers, practice structured and concise answers.
📌 Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Opportunity
With only limited vacancies released every year, the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination is a golden chance for science postgraduates. The job not only offers financial stability but also the prestige of working in national-level organizations that directly impact India’s development in geology and water resources.
Missing the deadline could mean waiting for another year!
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