UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026 Notification Released

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially published the notification for the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026. Science postgraduates and engineering degree holders can now submit their applications for specialized roles under the Ministry of Mines and the Ministry of Jal Shakti. The application window is active and will close on September 22, 2026.

Important Dates

Keep track of the official schedule to ensure your application process goes smoothly.

Notification Release Date: September 4, 2026
Online Application Start Date: September 4, 2026
Last Date to Apply Online: September 22, 2026 (until 6:00 PM)
Application Correction Window: September 23 to September 29, 2026
Preliminary Examination Date: Tentatively scheduled for February 2027

Vacancy Details

The UPSC is recruiting for multiple Group 'A' posts through this examination. Candidates can apply for roles such as Geologist, Geophysicist, and Chemist within the Geological Survey of India (Ministry of Mines), as well as Scientist 'B' (Hydrogeology, Chemical, and Geophysics) within the Central Ground Water Board (Ministry of Jal Shakti). The exact breakdown of vacancies will be updated in the official gazette shortly.

Eligibility Criteria

Before you fill out the application, verify that you meet the educational and age requirements for your desired post.

Educational Qualification

For Geologist Posts: You must hold a Master's degree in Geological Science, Geology, Applied Geology, Geo-Exploration, or Marine Geology from a recognized university.
For Geophysicist Posts: You need an M.Sc. in Physics, Applied Physics, M.Sc. (Geophysics), or an Integrated M.Sc. (Exploration Geophysics).
For Chemist Posts: An M.Sc. in Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, or Analytical Chemistry is mandatory.

Age Limit

The minimum age requirement is 21 years, and the maximum age limit is set at 32 years as of January 1, 2026. Standard upper age limit relaxations apply for reserved categories (5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC, and up to 10 years for PwBD candidates).

How to Apply

Follow these exact steps to submit your application through the official UPSC portal.

Visit the official UPSC application website at upsconline.nic.in.
If you are a new user, complete your One Time Registration (OTR) profile.
Log in using your registered Email ID, Mobile Number, or OTR ID and password.
Navigate to the "Latest Notifications" tab and click on the application link for the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026.
Fill in the detailed application form (Part-I and Part-II).
Upload your scanned photograph, signature, and a valid photo ID card in the prescribed format.
Pay the application fee of Rs 200 via cash at any SBI branch, Net Banking, or Credit/Debit/UPI payments. Female, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates are exempt from paying the fee.
Submit the form and save the final confirmation page for your records.

Official Links

Main UPSC Website: upsc.gov.in
UPSC Online Application Portal: upsconline.nic.in

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the selection process for the Combined Geo-Scientist Exam?

The selection process involves three main stages: a Preliminary Examination (Computer Based Test), a Main Examination (Descriptive type), and an Interview/Personality Test.

Can final year students apply for the Geo-Scientist Examination?

Yes, candidates appearing in their final year degree exams are eligible to apply. However, they must produce proof of passing the required examination along with their Detailed Application Form (DAF) before the Main Examination.

Is negative marking applicable in the Preliminary Exam?

Yes, there is a penalty for wrong answers. One-third (0.33) of the marks assigned to a question will be deducted for every incorrect answer marked in the Preliminary Examination.