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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the notification for the Combined Medical Services Examination (CMSE) 2025 on February 19, 2025.
This highly competitive examination aims to recruit medical officers for various central government services. The computer-based objective test is scheduled to be held on July 20, 2025, and interested candidates must submit their applications before the deadline on March 11, 2025, by 6:00 PM. Aspirants can find detailed information and apply online through the official UPSC website: www.upsc.gov.in.
Vacancy Trend
The Combined Medical Services Examination (CMSE) has undergone significant fluctuations in vacancy numbers over the past three years. The 2023 exam had the highest number of vacancies (1,261), but this number saw a sharp decline in 2024 (827) and further dropped to 700 in 2025.
The most notable change is in the Medical Officers Grade in Central Health Services, where vacancies plummeted from 584 in 2023 to 163 in 2024 but slightly recovered to 226 in 2025. Meanwhile, the General Duty Medical Officer (GDMO) Grade-II positions in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi saw a staggering reduction from 376 vacancies in 2023 to just 20 in 2025, marking a 94% decline.
On the other hand, the Assistant Divisional Medical Officer (Railways) positions have remained relatively stable, increasing from 300 in 2023 to 450 in 2024, and maintaining the same count in 2025.
The fluctuations in vacancies highlight changing recruitment patterns in central medical services, with a notable reduction in urban healthcare positions. This trend suggests a shift in government hiring priorities, potentially affecting aspirants preparing for CMSE. Candidates are advised to stay updated and align their preparation accordingly.
Exam Pattern and Age Criteria
The Combined Medical Services Examination (CMSE) 2025 follows strict eligibility criteria, including an upper age limit of 32 years as of August 1, 2025, with relaxations applicable for reserved categories as per government norms. Age relaxation: Upto 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC, and 10 years for PwBD candidates.
The exam consists of two computer-based objective papers, each carrying 250 marks, followed by a Personality Test (Interview) worth 100 marks. Paper 1 covers General Medicine and Pediatrics, while Paper 2 focuses on Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine. Both papers are conducted on the same day and include negative marking for incorrect answers.
Examination Fee
• General/OBC: ₹200
• Female/SC/ST/PwBD: Exempted
Payment Mode: Net banking, credit/debit card, UPI, or cash deposit at SBI branches.
Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must have passed the final MBBS examination (both written and practical).
- Those awaiting their compulsory rotating internship can apply but must complete it before appointment.
The Medical Bulletin
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