The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026, offering excellent career opportunities for qualified science postgraduates across India. This prestigious examination opens doors to Group ‘A’ and Group ‘B’ positions in premier national organisations like Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board.
The UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist exam provides a golden opportunity for Master’s degree holders in Geology, Geophysics, Chemistry, and Hydrogeology to join prestigious government services and contribute to mineral exploration, groundwater studies, and scientific research.
UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination Overview
Position
Category-I: Geological Survey of India, Ministry of Mines
- Geologist, Group A: 39 posts
- Geophysicist, Group A: 02 posts
- Chemist, Group A: 15 posts
Category-II: Central Ground Water Board, Ministry of Jal Shakti
- Scientist ‘B’ (Hydrogeology), Group A: 05 posts
- Scientist ‘B’ (Chemical), Group A: [as per notification]
- Scientist ‘B’ (Geophysics), Group A: [as per notification]
- Assistant Hydrogeologist, Group B: 18 posts
- Assistant Chemist, Group B: 02 posts
- Assistant Geophysicist, Group B: 01 post
Total Vacancies
Total Posts Available: 82+ positions across multiple categories
- Group A Posts: 61+ positions
- Group B Posts: 21 positions
- Highest vacancies: Geologist (39 posts) and Assistant Hydrogeologist (18 posts)
Note: Some posts are reserved for PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) candidates as per Government rules and reservation policy.
Salary Range
Salary Structure as per 7th Central Pay Commission:
- Group A Posts: Pay Level-10 (Rs. 56,100 – Rs. 1,77,500)
- Group B Posts: Pay Level-7 (Rs. 44,900 – Rs. 1,42,400)
Additional Benefits:
- Dearness Allowance (DA) as per Government rates
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Medical facilities and other central government allowances
- Provident Fund and pension benefits
Location
All India posting depending on the department’s requirement across:
- Geological Survey of India offices nationwide
- Central Ground Water Board regional centres
- Field stations and exploration sites
- Major cities and remote locations as per service requirement
UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination Details
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name: | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Notification No.: | Official Notification Number: No. 4/1/2025 E.I(B) |
| Application Date: | 03/09/2025 |
| Application Last Date: | 23/09/2025 |
| Total Post: | Total Posts Available: 82+ positions across multiple categories
Note: Some posts are reserved for PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) candidates as per Government rules and reservation policy. |
| Fees | Application Fee Structure:
Payment Methods:
|
| Official Website | www.upsc.gov.in |
Important Dates
Application Start: 03/09/2025
Application Deadline: 23/09/2025
Exam Date: {exam-date}
Result Declaration: Not specified
Job Description
Selected candidates will work as Geo-Scientists, Chemists, Hydrogeologists, and Geophysicists in national organisations with following responsibilities:
- Mineral exploration and geological mapping
- Groundwater studies and assessment
- Scientific research in earth sciences
- Geochemical and geophysical analysis
- Environmental impact assessment studies
- Policy implementation in mining and water resources
- Technical report preparation and data analysis
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification:
- Essential Educational Qualification:
- Master’s degree in Geology/Applied Geology for Geologist posts
- Master’s degree in Geo-Physics for Geophysicist posts
- Master’s degree in Chemistry for Chemist posts
- Master’s degree in relevant disciplines for Hydrogeology posts
-
Additional Requirements:
- Degree from recognised Indian university
- Equivalent qualifications from recognised foreign universities (with Government approval) are also accepted
- No minimum percentage specified in notification
Age Limit:
- Age Limit (as on 1st January 2026):
- General Category: 21 to 32 years
- SC/ST candidates: 21 to 37 years (5 years relaxation)
- OBC candidates: 21 to 35 years (3 years relaxation)
- PwBD candidates: 21 to 42 years (10 years relaxation)
- SC/ST + PwBD: 21 to 47 years (15 years relaxation)
Selection Process of UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination
The selection process consists of three stages:
- Stage I: Preliminary Examination (Objective Type) – Qualifying stage
- Stage II: Main Examination (Descriptive Papers) – Marks counted for merit
- Stage III: Personality Test/Interview – Final selection
Final Merit List: Based on marks obtained in Main Exam + Interview combined.
How to Apply
Step-by-step Application Process:
- Step 1: Visit https://upsconline.nic.in
- Step 2: Register using Universal Registration Number (URN)
- Step 3: Fill Common Application Form (CAF) with accurate details
- Step 4: Upload scanned photo, signature, and ID proof
- Step 5: Pay application fee via SBI/Debit Card/Credit Card/UPI/Net Banking
- Step 6: Submit the completed form
- Step 7: Save and print the application copy for future reference
Important: Complete application before 6:00 PM on 23rd September 2025.
Required Documents List
Documents needed during online application:
- Recent passport-size photograph (JPG format)
- Signature in JPG format
- Photo ID proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID/PAN/Passport/Driving Licence)
Documents for verification (post-selection):
- Educational certificates (Graduation/Post-Graduation mark sheets)
- Category certificate (if applicable – SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
- Disability certificate (for PwBD candidates)
- Age proof certificate
- Experience certificates (if any)
- Character and conduct certificate
Detailed Syllabus
Preliminary Exam Syllabus:
- Paper I: General Studies (Current affairs, History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science)
- Paper II: Subject-specific (Geology/Geophysics/Chemistry/Hydrogeology)
Main Exam Syllabus includes:
- Geology: Petrology, Mineralogy, Structural Geology, Economic Geology
- Geophysics: Seismology, Exploration Geophysics, Applied Geophysics
- Chemistry: Physical, Inorganic, Organic, and Analytical Chemistry
- Hydrogeology: Groundwater distribution, Hydrogeochemistry, Water resources
- Common Topics: Remote sensing, GIS, Environmental geology, Mineral deposits
Exam Pattern
Preliminary Examination:
- Two objective-type papers
- Paper I: General Studies
- Paper II: Subject-specific
- Negative marking applies (1/3rd mark deduction for wrong answers)
Main Examination:
- Descriptive-type papers
- Subject-wise papers as per post applied
- Marks counted for final merit
Interview/Personality Test:
- Final stage for qualified Main exam candidates
- Tests personality, communication skills, and subject knowledge
📋 Important Updates
- Admit Card Expected: Not specified
- Application Form Available Now
- Results Expected: Not specified
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the last date to apply for UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2026?
A: 23rd September 2025, till 6:00 PM.
Q2: What is the application fee for this examination?
A: ₹200 for General/OBC/EWS candidates. SC/ST/Female/PwBD candidates are exempted from fee payment.
Q3: What is the age limit for applying?
A: 21 to 32 years for general category (as on 1st January 2026). Age relaxations apply as per government rules.
Q4: How many stages are there in the selection process?
A: The exam is conducted in three stages – Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Interview/Personality Test.
Q5: Where can I apply for this examination?
A: Applications can be submitted online at https://upsconline.nic.in
Q6: What is the total number of vacancies available?
A: 82+ posts are available across Group A and Group B categories in various specialisations.
Q7: What is the qualification required for applying?
A: Master’s degree in relevant subjects like Geology, Geophysics, Chemistry, or related disciplines from recognised university.
Q8: Is there negative marking in the examination?
A: Yes, negative marking applies in the preliminary examination (objective type papers).
Conclusion:
The UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination 2026 offers a golden opportunity for science postgraduates to join prestigious government services with attractive salary packages and job security. With 82+ vacancies across multiple specialisations, this examination provides excellent career prospects in earth sciences.
Candidates are strongly advised to apply early through the official portal and prepare systematically following all official guidelines. The application deadline of 23rd September 2025 should be kept in mind to avoid last-minute rush.
Success in this examination requires dedicated preparation, thorough understanding of subjects, and staying updated with current developments in earth sciences and government policies.
Source: www.upsc.gov.in
Disclaimer: This information is provided only for informational purposes. Applicants are advised to visit the official website and carefully read the notification before applying.
