UPSC CMS Vacancy 2026 | Year-wise & Category-wise
Complete vacancy data for UPSC CMS 2026 and historical figures from 2020 onwards. Use this to understand competition intensity and category-wise seat distribution. Vacancy data is among the most important factors in estimating cut offs and deciding whether to appear for the exam in a given year.
* Category-wise figures are approximate based on standard reservation percentages applied to total vacancies. Verify exact figures in the official UPSC notification.
* Exact department-wise split is published in the UPSC annual notification. Figures above are based on historical distribution patterns.
4% of total vacancies are horizontally reserved for PwBD candidates across all categories. UPSC specifies which disability categories are eligible for each post. Check the official notification for specific disability sub-categories applicable to CMS posts.
With approximately 15,000–25,000 candidates appearing and 1,358 vacancies in 2026, the overall selection ratio is roughly 1 in 12–18 candidates. Competition varies by category: UR has the toughest ratio, OBC is moderately lower, and SC/ST is comparatively more favourable.
Compared to NEET PG (over 2 lakh candidates for ~50,000 seats) or INICET (highly competitive for limited AIIMS seats), UPSC CMS offers a significantly better ratio. For MBBS graduates wanting a secure central government job without pursuing PG, CMS is one of the most efficient exams in terms of effort-to-selection ratio.
Vacancy count is the single biggest factor influencing the cut off. More vacancies generally mean a lower cut off. The 2026 figure of 1,358 is the highest in seven years, suggesting a relatively favourable cut off — but this is not guaranteed. Actual cut offs depend on paper difficulty and candidate performance.
Department-wise, the large CHS allocation means most selected candidates go to central government hospitals. Railways and municipal posts have fewer seats but are often preferred for metro-city postings, making them slightly more competitive per seat.
After the interview, candidates submit their service preference order. CHS offers the most posts and widest posting locations, with standard central government pay and deputation opportunities. Railways offers travel passes, subsidised housing, and zonal postings. CGHS posts are in major cities, often desirable for urban postings.
Higher-ranked candidates get their first preference. If you want a specific service, score well enough to be in the top ranks for that department’s allocation.