Combined Medical Services Exam 2025: Complete Guide, Syllabus, and Strategy

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination is a prestigious gateway for medical professionals aiming to serve in various government sectors, such as the Railways, Municipal Corporations, and Central Health Services.

As we approach the UPSC CMS 2025, aspirants need a clear roadmap to navigate the exam process, eligibility criteria, syllabus, and more. This article proides an in-depth guide across all aspects of the UPSC CMS 2025, ensuring you’re well-prepared to achieve success.Visit Exam Results Live for more resources and updates.

UPSC CMS Exam Overview 2025

The UPSC CMS 2025 examination is expected to follow the traditional structure of a computer-based test followed by a personality test. It aims to recruit medical officers for various government posts. The exam typically consists of two parts: Part I (written examination) and Part II (personality test).

Part I includes two papers Paper I (General Medicine and Pediatrics) and Paper II (Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine) each carrying 250 marks. The personality test is worth 100 marks and assesses candidates’ general knowledge, aptitude, and suitability for the role.

Particulars Overview
Exam Name Union Public Service Commission Combined Medical Service
Commonly known as UPSC CMS
Conducting Body Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Exam type CBE (Computer-Based Exam)
UPSC CMS 2025 vacancy To be announced
Academic Qualification Required M.B.B.S degree
Exam Level National Level
Stages of exam
  • Computer-based examination and
  • Personality test
Official Website Apply Now 

UPSC CMS Important Dates 2025

It is important for the candidates to know the UPSC CMS important dates 2025 so that they won’t miss out on any deadline.

Event Expected Date
Notification Release February 19, 2025
Application Start Date February 19, 2025
Last Date to Apply March 11, 2025
Admit Card Release June 2025
Exam Date July 20, 2025
Result Declaration September 2025

UPSC CMS Eligibility Criteria 2025

Official UPSC CMS 2025 answer keys for both General Studies papers with file size and upload date

To be eligible for the UPSC CMS 2025, candidates must hold an M.B.B.S. degree and have completed their internship by the time of the personality test, with a maximum age limit of 32 years as of August 1, 2025, though relaxations apply for reserved categories.

They must also be Indian citizens, or subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees who arrived in India before January 1, 1962, intending permanent settlement.To be eligible for UPSC CMS 2025, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens, or subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanent settlement.
  • Age Limit: The maximum age limit is typically 32 years as of August 1, 2025. Age relaxations apply: 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC, and additional relaxations for ex-servicemen and PwBD candidates.
  • Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed the final MBBS examination, including the internship, by the time of application for the personality test.

UPSC CMS Application Form 2025

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination annually to recruit medical officers for various central government organizations, such as the Central Health Services, Indian Railways, and municipal corporations.

The UPSC CMS 2025 application process is entirely online and must be completed through the official UPSC portal at upsconline.nic.in. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to the application process, including additional information on requirements, fees, documents, and key considerations to ensure a smooth and error-free submission.

UPSC CMS 2025 Application Process

Step 1: Visit the Official UPSC Website

  • Access the Portal: Navigate to the official UPSC application portal at upsconline.nic.in.
  • Ensure Browser Compatibility: The website recommends enabling JavaScript for interactive features. Clear your browser’s history, cache, and cookies (Ctrl+Shift+Delete) for optimal performance.
  • Check Notifications: Look for the “Online Application for Various Examinations of UPSC” link on the homepage. The UPSC CMS 2025 application link was activated on February 19, 2025, and closed on March 11, 2025, at 6:00 PM.

Step 2: Complete One-Time Registration (OTR)

OTR Requirement: Before applying for the CMS 2025 exam, all candidates must have an active One-Time Registration (OTR) profile on the UPSC portal. If you have previously registered for any UPSC examination, your OTR is likely already active, and you can use the same credentials.

New Registration:

  • Click the “New Registration” button on the OTR portal.
  • Provide personal details such as:
  • Full name (as per educational certificates).
  • Date of birth.
  • Gender.
  • Contact details (valid email ID and mobile number).
  • Alternate email ID and mobile number (optional, editable during verification).
  • Set up login credentials (username and password).
  • Verify your details via a One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered email and mobile number.
  • Once registered, your OTR ID will be generated and sent to your email for future reference.

Benefits of OTR: The OTR system stores your details digitally, auto-populating them in future UPSC applications to save time. Ensure all information is accurate, as errors in OTR can lead to application rejection.

Forgotten Credentials: If you lose your OTR login details, refer to Para-C of the UPSC CMS 2025 notice on upsconline.nic.in for recovery instructions.

Step 3: Fill Out the CMS Application Form

Login to OTR Portal: Use your OTR ID or registered email/mobile number with the OTP or password to log in.

Select CMS Application: Locate and click the link for the UPSC CMS 2025 Application Form under the “Online Application for Various Examinations” section.

Two-Part Application Process:

Part 1: Basic Details:

  1. Enter personal information, including name, category (General, OBC, SC, ST, PwBD), and contact details.
  2. Specify your preferred exam center from the list provided in the official notification. Choose carefully, as changes may not be allowed later.
  3. Confirm eligibility details, such as educational qualifications (MBBS degree or final-year status) and age (must not exceed 32 years as of August 1, 2025, with relaxations for reserved categories).
  4. Save and continue after verifying all entries.

Part 2: Additional Details and Document Upload:

Educational Qualifications: Provide details of your MBBS degree or final-year status. Final-year candidates must submit proof of passing the MBBS exam before the personality test if shortlisted.

Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of the following:

Recent passport-sized photograph (as per specifications, typically 20-300 KB in JPG format).

Signature (same format and size).

Photo ID card (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN, or passport).

MBBS degree certificate or provisional certificate (if applicable).

Category certificate for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD candidates, if claiming fee exemption or age relaxation.

Ensure all documents meet the size and format requirements specified in the notification to avoid rejection.

Exam Center Selection: Reconfirm your exam center choice.

Declaration: Agree to the terms and conditions, confirming the accuracy of the provided information.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Fee Structure:

  • General and OBC (male) candidates: INR 200.
  • Female, SC, ST, and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) candidates: Exempted from payment.

Payment Modes:

  1. Online: Pay via debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI.
  2. Offline: Generate a challan and pay at designated bank branches (e.g., State Bank of India) within the specified period.

Confirmation: After successful payment, a transaction ID will be generated. Keep this for reference. Non-payment (for applicable categories) will result in application rejection.

Note: Ensure payment is completed before the application deadline (March 11, 2025, 6:00 PM). Late payments are not accepted.

Step 5: Review and Submit the Application

  • Preview the Form: Carefully review all entered details, uploaded documents, and payment status. Errors in name, category, or documents can lead to cancellation of candidature.
  • Submit: Click the “Submit” button to finalize your application. You will receive a confirmation email and SMS with your Registration ID.
  • Download Confirmation Page: Save and print the submitted application form for future reference. This is crucial for tracking your application status and for use during the exam process.

Step 6: Application Form Correction Window

Correction Period: UPSC provided a correction window from March 12 to March 18, 2025, to edit specific details in the CMS 2025 application form.

Editable Fields: Typically, candidates can modify details like exam center, category, or uploaded documents, but core details like name and date of birth may have restrictions.

Process:

  • Log in to upsconline.nic.in using your OTR credentials.
  • Access the correction link under the CMS 2025 section.
  • Make necessary changes, re-upload documents if required, and resubmit.
  • No further corrections are allowed after March 18, 2025.

Note: Use this window to rectify any errors, as incorrect details can lead to disqualification.

UPSC CMS Exam Pattern 2025

The UPSC CMS 2025 exam pattern is expected to remain consistent with previous years:

Paper Subject Marks Duration
Paper I General Medicine and Pediatrics 250 2 hours
Paper II Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics, Preventive & Social Medicine 250 2 hours
Personality Test 100

Each paper consists of 120 questions, with 1/3rd negative marking for incorrect answers.

UPSC CMS Syllabus 2025

UPSC Combined Medical Services Exam 2025 calendar with revised schedule and upload dates shown

The syllabus for UPSC CMS 2025 is divided across the two papers:

Paper I: General Medicine and Pediatrics

  • General Medicine: Cardiology, Neurology, Dermatology, Psychiatry, etc.
  • Pediatrics: Growth and Development, Neonatology, Pediatric Emergencies, etc.

Paper II: Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics, Preventive & Social Medicine

  • Surgery: General Surgery, Orthopedics, Anesthesiology, etc.
  • Gynecology & Obstetrics: Antenatal Care, High-Risk Pregnancy, Menopause, etc.
  • Preventive & Social Medicine: Epidemiology, Communicable Diseases, Health Administration, etc.

UPSC CMS Admit Card 2025

The admit card for UPSC CMS 2025 will likely be released three weeks before the exam date, around June 2025. Candidates can download it from the UPSC website by logging in with their registration ID and password. It will contain details such as the candidate’s name, roll number, exam center, and instructions.

UPSC CMS Preparation Tips 2025

Here are some effective preparation strategies:

  • Understand the Syllabus: Focus on high-weightage topics like General Medicine and Preventive Medicine.
  • Practice MCQs: Solve previous years’ papers and mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
  • Standard Books: Refer to books like Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, Bailey & Love for Surgery.
  • Time Management: Allocate specific hours daily for each subject and stick to a schedule.
  • Revise Regularly: Make concise notes for quick revisions closer to the exam date.

UPSC CMS Exam Centers 2025

The UPSC CMS 2025 exam is expected to be conducted across various cities in India. Based on previous years, likely centers include:

Region City 1 City 2 City 3
North Delhi Lucknow Chandigarh
South Chennai Hyderabad Bengaluru
East Kolkata Bhubaneswar Patna
West Mumbai Ahmedabad Jaipur

Candidates can select their preferred center during the application process, subject to availability.

UPSC CMS Answer Key 2025

The official answer key for UPSC CMS 2025 will likely be released a few weeks after the exam, around August 2025. Candidates can download it from the UPSC website to cross-check their answers and estimate their scores. Objections to the answer key can be raised within a stipulated period, usually a week, with supporting evidence.

UPSC CMS Cut-off 2025

The cut-off marks for UPSC CMS 2025 will depend on factors like exam difficulty, number of candidates, and vacancies. Based on past trends, the expected cut-off (out of 500) for the written exam might be:

Category Expected Cut-off
General 340-350
OBC 320-330
SC/ST 280-290
PwBD 250-260

UPSC CMS Result 2025

The UPSC CMS 2025 result for the written exam is expected in September 2025, followed by the personality test schedule. The final result, combining both stages, will likely be announced by November 2025. Candidates can check their results on the UPSC website using their roll number.

UPSC CMS Selection Process 2025

The selection process for the UPSC Combined Medical Services (CMS) 2025 examination is a multi-stage procedure designed to assess candidates’ medical knowledge, professional suitability, and physical fitness.

It begins with a computer-based written examination carrying 500 marks, which candidates must qualify to proceed. Those who clear the written test are called for a personality test, a 100-mark interview that evaluates their aptitude, communication skills, and suitability for medical officer roles in central government organizations.

Following the interview, candidates undergo document verification, where they must submit essential documents such as their MBBS degree, internship completion certificate, and other relevant certificates to confirm eligibility. 

The final stage is a medical examination to ensure candidates meet the physical and health standards required for service. Successful completion of all stages leads to selection for posts in organizations like the Central Health Services, Indian Railways, and municipal corporations.

UPSC CMS Salary 2025

The salary for UPSC CMS 2025 recruits varies based on the post and service. An approximate structure based on the 7th Pay Commission is:

Post Approx. Salary (INR)
Assistant Divisional Medical Officer (Railways) 56,100 – 1,77,500
General Duty Medical Officer (Central Health Service) 56,100 – 1,77,500
Medical Officers in Municipal Corporations 56,100 – 1,77,500

Additional allowances like DA, HRA, and TA are applicable as per government norms.

FAQs for UPSC CMS 2025

1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CMS 2025?
The last date to submit the UPSC CMS 2025 application was March 11, 2025, by 6:00 PM. A correction window was available from March 12 to March 18, 2025.

2. How to apply for UPSC CMS 2025?
Visit upsconline.nic.in, complete the One-Time Registration (OTR), fill out the CMS application form, upload documents (photo, signature, MBBS certificate), pay the fee (INR 200 for General/OBC; exempted for SC/ST/PwBD/female), and submit the form.

3. What is the eligibility for UPSC CMS 2025?
Candidates must have an MBBS degree or be in the final year of MBBS. The age limit is 32 years as of August 1, 2025 (relaxations for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD). Indian citizenship or specific nationalities are required.

4. What is the application fee for UPSC CMS 2025?
The fee is INR 200 for General and OBC (male) candidates. Female, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates are exempt from payment.

5. What is the exam date for UPSC CMS 2025?
The UPSC CMS 2025 exam was held on July 20, 2025, in two shifts: Paper 1 (9:30 AM–11:30 AM) and Paper 2 (2:00 PM–4:00 PM).

6. What is the selection process for UPSC CMS 2025?
The process includes a 500-mark computer-based written exam, a 100-mark personality test (interview), document verification (MBBS degree, internship certificate), and a medical examination.

7. How many vacancies are there in UPSC CMS 2025?
UPSC CMS 2025 aims to fill approximately 705 posts, including 226 Medical Officer positions in the Central Health Service and others in Railways and municipal corporations.

8. What documents are required for UPSC CMS 2025?
Required documents include a passport-sized photo, signature, photo ID (e.g., Aadhaar), MBBS degree/provisional certificate, internship completion certificate, and category certificate (if applicable).

9. Can final-year MBBS students apply for UPSC CMS 2025?
Yes, final-year MBBS students can apply provisionally but must submit proof of passing the MBBS exam before the personality test if shortlisted.

10. How to download the UPSC CMS 2025 admit card?
The admit card was available on upsc.gov.in around July 13, 2025. Log in using your Registration ID or roll number, download the admit card, and carry it with a valid photo ID to the exam center.

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