UPSC CMS Eligibility Criteria 2026, Age Limit and Educational Qualification

UPSC CMS Eligibility Criteria 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination annually to recruit medical professionals for various central government health services. For candidates aspiring to appear in UPSC CMS 2026, understanding the UPSC CMS Eligibility Criteria 2026 is essential before applying. The eligibility requirements broadly cover nationality, age limit, and educational qualification, along with certain medical and administrative conditions. 

UPSC CMS Eligibility Criteria 2026 

Candidates applying for the UPSC Combined Medical Services Examination 2026 must satisfy all conditions prescribed by the Commission. These conditions ensure that only qualified and eligible medical graduates are considered for government medical services.

The eligibility criteria include:

• Nationality requirements

• Prescribed age limits and applicable relaxations

• Educational qualification in medicine

• Fulfilment of medical fitness standards

Failure to meet any of these conditions may lead to rejection of the application at any stage of the selection process.

Also Read - UPSC CMS Syllabus 2026

UPSC CMS 2026 Nationality Criteria

To apply for UPSC CMS 2026, candidates must meet specific nationality conditions. Most applicants are Indian citizens. However, certain other categories are also eligible to apply. They need a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India.

• Citizen of India.

• Subject of Nepal or Bhutan.

• Person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, Vietnam) intending permanent settlement in India.

UPSC CMS Age Limit 2026

Candidates must be within a defined age bracket to qualify for UPSC CMS 2026. The upper age limit varies slightly for different posts and categories. Age is calculated as of a specific date, usually mentioned in the official notification.

• Minimum Age: Not specified, but implied by educational qualification.

• Maximum Age: 32 years for most posts. For Central Health Service posts, the limit is 35 years.

Age Relaxations:

• SC/ST: +5 years

• OBC: +3 years

• Ex-Servicemen & ECOs/SSCOs (>=5 yrs): +5 years

• Defence Personnel Disabled in Operations: +3 years

• J&K Resident (1980-89) Domicile: +5 years

• Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD): +10 years

UPSC CMS Educational Qualification 2026

The UPSC CMS Educational Qualification 2026 requires specific academic credentials. Candidates must hold a medical degree from a recognized university. This ensures they possess the necessary medical knowledge and skills.

• Minimum Educational Qualification: Passed the final year written and practical examinations of the MBBS degree.

• Subject Requirements: MBBS degree from a university recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI).

• Minimum Marks/Percentage: Not specified by UPSC; passing the MBBS examination is sufficient.

• Appearing Candidates: Eligible to apply if they submit proof of passing within the assigned deadline.

• Internship: Candidates yet to complete their compulsory rotating internship can apply. They receive appointment only after internship completion.

Other Essential Requirements For UPSC CMS

Beyond academic and age criteria, candidates must meet additional standards. These ensure suitability for the demanding medical roles within government services. Adhering to these is mandatory.

• Physical/Medical Standards: Candidates undergo a medical examination after the interview. This checks vision, hearing, BMI, and medical history. They must meet prescribed physical standards.

• Work Experience: Not typically required for initial application.

• Language Proficiency: Not explicitly stated as a separate requirement; however, medical education in India usually implies English proficiency.

• Proof of Age: Matriculation or Secondary School Leaving Certificate or equivalent is accepted.