UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination — Eligibility, Syllabus & Exam Pattern
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination is a specialized examination conducted for recruitment to the forestry services of India. It is one of the All India Services, alongside the IAS and IPS. The role of an IFS officer is to ensure the scientific management of forests, protect and conserve wildlife, and address environmental concerns. The examination process involves three stages: a common Preliminary Examination with Civil Services aspirants, a separate Main Examination (written/descriptive) focused on science and forestry subjects, and a Personality Test (interview).
📌 Eligibility Criteria
Nationality
Must be a citizen of India for the Indian Forest Service.
Educational Qualification
Bachelor's degree from a recognized university with at least one of the following subjects:
- Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Statistics
- Zoology
OR Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Forestry, or Engineering.
☛ Final-year candidates awaiting results can apply for the Preliminary Exam but must provide proof of passing before the Main Exam.
Physical Standards
Minimum physical standards (height, chest girth, fitness) apply and will be verified during medical examination after the interview stage.
Age Limit
As of August 1 of the exam year:
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / EWS | 21 | 32 | - |
| OBC | 21 | 35 | 3 years |
| SC / ST | 21 | 37 | 5 years |
| PwBD | 21 | 42 | 10 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | 21 | 37 | 5 years |
☛ The main point is that the attempt is counted at the Preliminary Exam stage of UPSC, not at the Mains stage. It doesn't matter which Mains exam you qualify for or even if you qualify at all. For number of attempts see UPSC-CSE in this site
✍️Exam Syllabus & Pattern
Stage 1 — Preliminary Examination (Common with CSE)
Two objective-type papers — Paper I (General Studies) & Paper II (CSAT).
Paper I — General Studies
- Current Events of National & International importance
- History of India & Indian National Movement
- Indian & World Geography
- Indian Polity & Governance
- Economic & Social Development
- Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity & Climate Change
- General Science
Paper II — CSAT (Qualifying)
- Comprehension
- Interpersonal Skills
- Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability
- Decision-making & Problem-solving
- General Mental Ability
- Basic Numeracy & Data Interpretation
Stage 2 — IFS Main Examination (Written)
Six descriptive papers in total.
| Paper | Marks | Contents |
|---|---|---|
| Paper I — General English | 300 | Essay + comprehension; workmanlike use of English. |
| Paper II — General Knowledge | 300 | Current events, Indian polity, economy, geography, history, everyday scientific awareness. |
Papers III, IV, V, VI — Optional Subjects
Choose TWO optional subjects (each has Paper I & II, 200 marks each, total 800 marks):
- Agriculture
- Agricultural Engineering
- Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Forestry
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Physics
- Statistics
- Zoology
Stage 3 — Personality Test (Interview)
| Total Marks | 300 |
|---|---|
| Evaluation Areas |
|
👉 Note
- Final ranking = Main Examination marks + Interview marks.
- For full official syllabus & eligibility, refer to UPSC officially notification.
☞ Tip for Aspirants: Always refer to the latest official notification for syllabus and eligibility details as they may change year to year.