UPSC IES ISS Vacancy 2026: Application Process, Eligibility, and Selection Details

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the Indian Statistical Service (ISS) and Indian Economic Service (IES) examination. If you want to build a career in these prestigious services, now is the time to act. The online application process started on February 11, 2026, and interested candidates can apply through the official UPSC website until March 3, 2026.

This is a significant opportunity for those looking to serve the nation through economic policy and statistical analysis. Let me walk you through everything you need to know about this recruitment.

Total Number of Vacancies

UPSC has announced a total of 44 vacancies across both services. The breakdown is simple:

• Indian Economic Service (IES): 16 posts
• Indian Statistical Service (ISS): 28 posts

These positions are distributed according to reservation norms as per government guidelines.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria Explained

Age Limit

Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years of age. If you belong to a reserved category, you will get age relaxation as per government rules. This gives younger professionals a fair chance to enter these services without rushing through their education.

Educational Qualifications

The educational requirements differ based on which service you are applying for.

For Indian Economic Service (IES), you need a postgraduate degree in Economics, Applied Economics, or Business Economics from a recognized institution in India. Your specialization matters here because the role involves economic policy formulation and analysis.

For Indian Statistical Service (ISS), you need either a graduate or postgraduate degree in Statistics, Mathematical Statistics, or Applied Statistics. This service focuses on data analysis and statistical research that guides national policy.

Make sure your degree is from a recognized university. Distance learning degrees may have specific conditions, so check the detailed notification if that applies to you.

Selection Process: What to Expect

The selection happens in two stages, and both carry significant weight.

First comes the written examination, which is worth 1000 marks. This is the main hurdle and tests your subject knowledge in depth. The exam papers will cover your core subject along with general studies and language skills.

If you clear the written exam, you move to the interview round, which carries 200 marks. The interview panel assesses your personality, communication skills, and suitability for the service. They look for candidates who can think critically and handle responsibility.

Your final ranking depends on your combined performance in both stages. So you cannot afford to take either stage lightly.

How to Apply: Step by Step Guide

The application process is entirely online. Here is how you can complete it without any confusion.

Step 1: Visit the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in. Make sure you are on the genuine website to avoid fake portals.

Step 2: On the homepage, look for the link that says 'UPSC IES/ISS Exam 2026 Registration' and click on it.

Step 3: You will be directed to the application portal. Fill in all required details carefully. Double check your personal information, educational qualifications, and contact details.

Step 4: Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per the specifications mentioned. Wrong file formats or sizes can lead to rejection.

Step 5: Pay the application fee through the available online payment options. Keep the payment receipt safe.

Step 6: Submit your application form after reviewing all entries one final time.

Step 7: Download and print the completed application form for your records. You may need this during later stages of the recruitment process.

Important Dates to Remember

The application window opened on February 11, 2026. You have until March 3, 2026, to submit your application. Do not wait until the last day because technical issues can occur. Server loads increase near deadlines, and you do not want to miss this opportunity due to website slowdowns.

Application Fee

While the specific fee details are mentioned in the official notification, male candidates from general and OBC categories typically need to pay the standard UPSC examination fee. Female candidates and candidates from SC/ST/PwD categories usually get fee exemptions or concessions. Check the notification for exact amounts.

Why These Services Matter

Both IES and ISS are Group A Central Services. Officers in these services play crucial roles in shaping India's economic and statistical landscape.

IES officers work in various ministries and departments, providing economic expertise for policy decisions. They analyze economic trends, prepare reports, and advise on fiscal matters.

ISS officers handle statistical data collection, analysis, and research. Their work forms the foundation for evidence-based policymaking across government departments.

These are not just jobs. They are careers that let you contribute to national development while enjoying job security, good pay, and respect.

Preparation Tips Worth Following

Start with the syllabus. Know exactly what topics you need to cover for the written exam. Previous year question papers give you a clear picture of the exam pattern and difficulty level.

Build a study schedule that covers all subjects systematically. Economics and Statistics are vast fields, so random reading will not help. You need structured preparation.

Practice answer writing. In descriptive exams, how you present your knowledge matters as much as what you know. Work on writing clear, concise answers within time limits.

For the interview, stay updated on current economic issues, government policies, and statistical applications in various sectors. Read newspapers and economic journals regularly.

If you are working or studying, balance your preparation accordingly. Consistency beats intensity in competitive exam preparation.

What Happens After Selection

Once you clear both stages and get selected, you will receive training at the designated training academy. The training equips you with the practical skills needed for your role.

After training, you get posted to various government departments based on your rank and preference. Your career growth depends on your performance, with opportunities for promotions and higher responsibilities over time.

The work culture in these services is professional, and you get to work with some of the brightest minds in economic and statistical fields.

This recruitment is your gateway to a stable, rewarding career in public service. The application deadline is March 3, 2026, so gather your documents, check your eligibility, and apply before time runs out. Visit the UPSC official website for the complete notification and detailed information about the examination pattern and syllabus.