UPSC CGGE (Combined Geo-Scientist) Eligibility 2026

Who can apply for UPSC CGGE (Combined Geo-Scientist) in 2026 — the age limit, educational qualification, nationality and attempt rules as specified by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Always confirm against the official notification before applying.

Stream I — Geologist (GSI, Group A) and Stream IV — Junior Hydrogeologist (CGWB, Scientist B, Group A)

Age: 21 to 32 years on the reference date specified in the notification. Standard relaxations: SC/ST +5 years, OBC (non-creamy layer) +3 years, PwBD +10 years (further additive over SC/ST/OBC), ex-servicemen as per rules.
Education: Master's degree in Geological Science / Geology / Applied Geology / Geo-Exploration / Mineral Exploration / Engineering Geology / Marine Geology / Earth Science and Resource Management / Oceanography and Coastal Areas Studies / Petroleum Geosciences / Petroleum Exploration from a recognised university (the notification lists the exact equivalent courses each cycle). Final-year MSc candidates may apply provisionally and must submit proof of passing by the Mains stage.
Nationality: Citizen of India, or subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugee who came before 1 Jan 1962 with intent to settle permanently, or person of Indian origin who has migrated from specified countries with intent to settle.
Attempts: No upper cap on attempts as long as the candidate is within the prescribed age limit on the notification's cut-off date.

Stream II — Geophysicist (GSI, Group A)

Age: 21 to 32 years on the reference date specified in the notification. Same category-wise relaxations as above.
Education: MSc or MSc (Tech) or Integrated MSc in Physics / Applied Physics / Geophysics / Applied Geophysics / Marine Geophysics, OR an Integrated MSc / M.Tech course in Exploration Geophysics from a recognised university (or specified equivalents).
Nationality: Same nationality criteria as Stream I. Physical fitness as per UPSC Geo-Scientist medical standards (field-going cadre — basic vision, hearing, and cardio-pulmonary fitness required).
Attempts: No cap on attempts within the age window.

Stream III — Chemist (GSI, Group A)

Age: 21 to 32 years on the reference date specified in the notification. Same category-wise relaxations.
Education: Master's degree in Chemistry / Applied Chemistry / Analytical Chemistry from a recognised university. The qualification must be in hand by the Mains-stage cut-off if a candidate appears provisionally at Prelims.
Nationality: Same nationality criteria as the other streams. Physical fitness category is somewhat less stringent than Streams I/II/IV given more laboratory-based postings, but a medical examination is still mandatory.
Attempts: No cap on attempts within the age window.

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