The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026 notification. This is a golden opportunity for candidates with backgrounds in Geology, Geophysics, Chemistry, and Hydrogeology to secure prestigious Group ‘A’ posts under the Government of India.
The application process is now open through the UPSC online portal, and interested candidates must complete their applications before 23rd September 2025. With vacancies spread across various departments, this recruitment offers excellent career growth, job security, and lucrative salary packages.
In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the UPSC Geo Scientist Recruitment 2026, including vacancy details, eligibility, important dates, exam pattern, application process, and preparation tips.
🔑 Key Highlights of UPSC Geo Scientist Exam 2026
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Recruiting Body: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
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Exam Name: Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026
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Vacancies: 85+ (various posts)
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Application Deadline: 23rd September 2025
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Prelims Exam Date: 8th February 2026
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Mains Exam Date: 20th & 21st June 2026
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Mode of Application: Online
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Selection Process: Prelims → Mains → Interview
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Job Location: Across India
📌 UPSC Geo Scientist 2026 Vacancy Details
The UPSC has released a detailed vacancy breakup for the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026. Candidates must apply according to their educational qualification.
| Post | Vacancy | Age Limit (as on 01-01-2026) | Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geologist, Group A | 39 | 21–32 years | Master’s degree in Geological Science / Geology / Applied Geology / Mineral Exploration / Marine Geology / Petroleum Geosciences / Earth Science etc. |
| Geophysicist, Group A | 2 | 21–32 years | M.Sc. in Physics, Applied Physics, Geophysics, Exploration Geophysics, Applied Geophysics, Marine Geophysics |
| Chemist, Group A | 15 | 21–32 years | M.Sc. in Chemistry / Applied Chemistry / Analytical Chemistry |
| Scientist ‘B’ | 8 | 21–32 years | Master’s degree in Geology / Applied Geology / Hydrogeology |
| Assistant Hydrogeologist | 18 | 21–32 years | Master’s in Geology / Applied Geology / Marine Geology / Hydrogeology |
| Assistant Chemist | 2 | 21–32 years | M.Sc. / Integrated M.Sc. in Chemistry / Applied Chemistry / Physical / Organic / Inorganic / Analytical / Hydro-Chemistry / Industrial Chemistry |
| Assistant Geophysicist | 1 | 21–32 years | M.Sc. in Physics, Applied Physics, Geophysics, Exploration Geophysics, Applied Geophysics, Marine Geophysics |
👉 Candidates must check the official notification for detailed educational requirements and category-wise reservations.
📅 Important Dates for UPSC Geo Scientist Exam 2026
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Application Start Date: Already Open
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Last Date to Apply Online: 23rd September 2025
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Preliminary Examination: 8th February 2026
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Main Examination: 20th & 21st June 2026
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Interview / Personality Test: To be announced after Mains
⚖️ Selection Process – Step by Step
The recruitment will be conducted through three stages:
1️⃣ Stage-I: Preliminary Examination
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Objective-type exam with two papers.
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Marks obtained in Prelims will count towards final merit.
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Exam Pattern:
| Stream | Paper | Subject | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geologist & Scientist B (Hydrogeology) | Paper-I | General Studies | 2 hrs | 100 |
| Paper-II | Geology/Hydrogeology | 2 hrs | 300 | |
| Geophysicist & Scientist B (Geophysics) | Paper-I | General Studies | 2 hrs | 100 |
| Paper-II | Geophysics | 2 hrs | 300 | |
| Chemist & Scientist B (Chemical) | Paper-I | General Studies | 2 hrs | 100 |
| Paper-II | Chemistry | 2 hrs | 300 |
Total Marks: 400
2️⃣ Stage-II: Main Examination (Descriptive)
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Three papers for each stream.
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Total Marks: 600
| Stream | Papers | Subjects | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geologist Group A | Paper-I, II, III | Geology | 3 hrs each | 200 each |
| Geophysicist Group A | Paper-I, II, III | Geophysics | 3 hrs each | 200 each |
| Chemist Group A | Paper-I, II, III | Chemistry | 3 hrs each | 200 each |
| Hydrogeology | Paper-I & II: Geology; Paper-III: Hydrogeology | 3 hrs each | 200 each |
3️⃣ Stage-III: Personality Test / Interview
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Marks: 200
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Focuses on subject knowledge, communication skills, and overall suitability.
💰 Application Fee
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General/OBC Candidates: ₹200/-
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Female/SC/ST/PwBD Candidates: Exempted
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Mode of Payment: Online (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking)
📝 How to Apply for UPSC Geo Scientist Exam 2026
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Visit the official UPSC website.
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Click on “Apply Online for Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026.”
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Register yourself with basic details.
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Fill in the application form carefully with educational & personal details.
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Upload scanned photograph and signature.
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Pay the application fee (if applicable).
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Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
📘 Preparation Tips for UPSC Geo Scientist 2026
Cracking the UPSC Geo-Scientist exam requires smart strategy and consistent practice. Here are some tips:
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Understand the Syllabus: Go through the official syllabus for Prelims & Mains thoroughly.
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Focus on Core Subjects: Geology, Geophysics, Chemistry, and Hydrogeology must be studied in detail.
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Practice Previous Papers: Solve last 10 years’ UPSC Geo-Scientist papers.
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General Studies Matters: Don’t ignore GS paper—it carries significant weightage.
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Time Management: Practice writing answers for Mains to improve speed and clarity.
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Mock Tests: Regularly attempt online mock tests for better accuracy.
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Interview Prep: Improve communication and develop a strong understanding of subject applications in real life.
🌟 Why Choose UPSC Geo Scientist Career?
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Prestigious Govt Job: Get recruited under the Central Government with permanent job security.
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High Salary & Perks: Salary as per 7th CPC pay scale, with allowances like HRA, DA, TA.
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Growth Opportunities: Promotions and career advancement in central departments.
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Nation Building Role: Contribute to exploration, hydro studies, chemical research, and energy security.
📌 Quick Links
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📑 [Official Notification – Click Here]
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🖊️ [Apply Online – Click Here]
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📲 [Join Telegram Channel – Click Here]
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🌐 [More Govt Jobs – Click Here]
✅ Final Words
The UPSC Geo Scientist Recruitment 2026 is a once-in-a-year golden opportunity for candidates aiming to build a career in Geology, Chemistry, Physics, and Hydrogeology. With 85+ vacancies, lucrative pay, and a respected government position, this exam attracts thousands of aspirants across India.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t delay—apply before 23rd September 2025 and start your preparation today. Remember, consistency, strong subject knowledge, and confidence are the keys to success in this competitive exam.
👉 Are you ready to become India’s next Geo Scientist Officer? Apply now and take your first step towards a rewarding government career! 🚀
