Key Dates for the UPSC CMS Examination
It’s important to keep track of the significant dates related to the examination and application process. The online application for the CMS started on 11 March 2026 and closed on 31 March 2026. Candidates were able to download their admit cards from 24 July 2026, leading up to the exam on 2 August 2026. After the exam, the provisional answer key was released on 5 August 2026, and a representation window for objections will be open for a specified duration.
| Event | Date |
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| Online Application Start Date | 11 March 2026 |
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| Online Application Last Date | 31 March 2026 |
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| Last Date for Fee Payment | 31 March 2026 |
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| Admit Card Released | 24 July 2026 |
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| Exam Date | 2 August 2026 |
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| Provisional Answer Key | 5 August 2026 |
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| Objection/Representation Window | Opens 3rd day from exam date, closes 6:00 PM on the 7th day from exam date |
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Details of the Exam Papers
The Combined Medical Services Examination consists of two papers, each containing 120 questions, with a total of 250 marks available for each paper. Paper I focuses on General Medicine and Paediatrics, while Paper II covers Surgery, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine. The timings for the two papers are set to accommodate all candidates effectively.
| Marks | Paper | Timing | Subjects | Questions |
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| 250 | Paper I | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | General Medicine & Paediatrics | 120 |
| 250 | Paper II | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Surgery (40), Gynaecology & Obstetrics (40), Preventive & Social Medicine (40) | 120 |
Vacancy Distribution for Medical Officers
The total vacancies for the CMS recruitment are distributed across various posts, primarily for Medical Officers in different capacities. Each category of post has a specific number of openings, ensuring that the recruitment process addresses the demands of healthcare services across the country.
| Post Name | Number of Posts |
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| Medical Officer (General Duty Medical Officer Sub-Cadre), Central Health Service | 864 |
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| Assistant Divisional Medical Officer (ADMO), Railways | 450 |
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| General Duty Medical Officer Grade II, NDMC | 14 |
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| General Duty Medical Officer, various Delhi Municipal Council posts | 30 |
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| Total | 1358 |
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