Combined Geo-Scientist (Preliminary) Examination, 2026

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination (CGSE) to recruit candidates for various posts in the Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board.

Eligibility

Nationality: A candidate must be a citizen of India, or a subject of Nepal, or a subject of Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came over to India or person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka or East African Countries with the intention of permanently settling in India.

Age Limit: 21 to 32 years, with relaxation for certain categories:

General Category: 21 to 32 years

EWS: 21 to 32 years

SC/ST: 21 to 37 years

OBC: 21 to 35 years

Education Qualifications: A degree or Master's degree in the respective field, such as Geology, Geophysics, Chemistry, or Hydrogeology.

Exam Details

Name: Combined Geo-Scientist Examination

Conducting Authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

Exam Mode: Offline

Application Fee: Rs 200

Number of Vacancies: 85

Exam Level: National level

Stages of the Exam: Prelims, Mains, and Interview/Personality test

Exam Pattern

Prelims Exam:

Paper-I: General Studies (100 marks, 2 hours)

Paper-II: Geology/Hydrogeology (300 marks, 2 hours)

Mains Exam:

Three papers, each of 200 marks and 3 hours duration

The exam pattern is the same for all posts

Interview: 200 marks

Important Dates

Notification Date: September 3, 2025

Prelims Exam Date: February 8, 2026

Mains Exam Date: June 20-21, 2026