UPSC CMS 2026 Exam Pattern is divided into 2 stages as a computer-based test and a personality test. The computer-based test, which happens online, is divided into 2 papers: UPSC CMS 2026 Paper 1 and Paper 2. The combined total of these papers is 500 marks. Personality test, on the other hand, is evaluated out of 100 marks, which makes the total final merit list to be calculated out of 600. Candidates qualifying the computer-based test will be shortlisted for the interview round of UPSC CMS 2026.
UPSC CMS Paper 1 consists of 2 subjects.Candidates can refer the table below:
The combined total of these 2 sections is 250, and candidates get a duration of 2 hours to complete the exam. Check the table below for the detailed UPSC CMS paper 1 exam pattern:
| Particulars | General Medicine | Paediatrics |
|---|---|---|
| Number of questions | 96 | 24 |
| Duration | 2 hours | |
| Total Marks | 250 | |
Note: ⅓ marks will be deducted for every wrong answer.
UPSC CMS 2026 Paper 2 has a total of 3 subjects. They are as follows:
The combined total of these subjects is 250 marks, where candidates have a duration of 2 hours to complete. Candidates can check the table below for the detailed UPSC CMS Paper 2 Exam Pattern 2026:
| Particulars | Surgery | Gynaecology & Obstetrics | Preventive & Social Medicine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of questions | 40 | 40 | 40 |
| Duration | 2 hours | ||
| Total Marks | 250 | ||
Note: ⅓ marks will be deducted for every wrong answer.
Candidates qualifying the written test will be shortlisted for UPSC CMS 2026 Interview round. This interview stage of UPSC CMS 2026 is evaluated on a total of 100 marks, where candidates will face a panel of senior experts. This does not happen as a technical viva, but rather tests the following personality traits of the candidates:
UPSC CMS final marks are evaluated as a combined total of the written exam round and the interview. Candidates qualifying UPSC CMS Interview 2026 will be recommended for document verification and medical examination. Any discrepancy in the documents will lead to the cancellation of the candidature. Medical examination includes checking the physical standards of UPSC CMS 2026, such as vision and hearing tests, BMI, medical history checking, etc. Candidates passing all the rounds will be appointed to various posts for UPSC CMS 2026.
Ques: Is there negative marking for UPSC CMS 2026?
Ans: Yes, negative marking exists for both the Papers of UPSC CMS 2026. ⅓ marks will be deducted for every wrong answer.
Ques: Does UPSC CMS 2026 have Prelims and Mains rounds?
Ans: No, UPSC CMS 2026 Exam is conducted in two stages: a computer-based test and further, a personality test. There is no classification as prelims and mains exams.
Ques: Do Paper 1 and Paper 2 Exams for UPSC CMS happen on the same day?
Ans: Yes, the Paper 1 and Paper 2 sections of UPSC CMS happen on the same day. Both are sections of a single computer-based test. This happens on Aug 2, 2026, in case of the 2026 session.
Ques: Should candidates prepare on the technical side for UPSC CMS interview?
Ans: No, a technical viva model interview does not happen for UPSC CMS. It includes questions testing personality traits like communication skills, real-life applications, ethics, etc.
Ques: How many questions are asked for the written exam part?
Ans: A total of 120 questions will be asked for each paper of the written exam part. Paper 2 involves an equal division of 40 questions per section. Paper 1 has 96 questions in the general medicine section and 24 in the paediatrics section.
Download the PREPP App and attempt FREE UPSC CMS Mock Tests and get complete study material!
Comments