UPSC CMS 2024 Exam – Syllabus, Eligibility, Important Dates and Application Process

Are you a doctor with a passion for public service? Do you dream of using your medical expertise to serve a larger community? If so, then the UPSC Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination might be the perfect opportunity for you! This prestigious exam selects candidates for the esteemed positions of Assistant Medical Officers (AMO) and General Duty Medical Officers (GDMO) across various Central Government Ministries, Departments, and Organizations.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the essential information regarding the UPSC CMS 2024 Examination. We’ll get to know the eligibility criteria, exam syllabus, important dates, and the application process, ensuring you’re well-prepared to embark on this exciting journey.

UPSC CMS 2024 Exam Overview

UPSC CMS Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?

To be eligible to apply for the UPSC CMS 2024 Exam, you must fulfill the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: You must possess an MBBS degree from a recognized university by the Medical Council of India (MCI) or any other recognized medical council in India.
• Age Limit: There is no specific upper age limit for applying. However, you should be at least 21 years old on the 1st of August 2024.
• Nationality: You must be a citizen of India or meet the eligibility requirements as specified by the UPSC for candidates belonging to other categories (e.g., Persons of Indian Origin residing outside India).
• Attempts: There is no restriction on the number of attempts you can take for the UPSC CMS Exam.

UPSC CMS 2024 Age Relaxation

In the UPSC CMS 2024 examination, there is a provision for upper age relaxation. The upper age limit relaxation categories are provided in the table below.

UPSC CMS 2024 Important Dates to Remember:

• Notification Release Date: April 10, 2024 (The official announcement regarding the exam was made on this date)
• Application Form Availability: April 10, 2024 to April 30, 2024 (This is the window to fill out the online application form)
• Application Form Correction: May 1, 2024 to May 7, 2024 (If you make any mistakes in your application form, you can rectify them during this period)
• Written Exam Date: July 14, 2024 (Mark this date on your calendar! This is the day of the written exam)
• Admit Card Release: (The exact date will be announced closer to the exam, but it’s usually a week before)

UPSC CMS 2024 Admit Card

The UPSC CMS 2024 admit card will be available online at upsc.gov.in. Candidates must log in to the official website to get it using their credentials. The admit card is issued separately for the Preliminary and Personality tests. Those who pass the computer-based preliminary exam will receive the admit card for the Personality test.

UPSC CMS Salary

The detailed salary information for UPSC CMS 2024 is provided in the notification PDF. Candidates shortlisted for the final examination and successfully clearing it will be selected for the combined medical service post. Assistant Divisional Medical Officers can expect a salary ranging from 56,000/- Rs to 1,77,500/- Rs, while General Duty Medical Officers will receive a similar salary along with a non-practicing allowance. Refer to the table below for more detailed information.

UPSC CMS 2024 Exam Pattern – Paper 1 & 2

UPSC CMS 2024 Exam Pattern: Paper 1 covers General Medicine and Pediatrics, consisting of 250 marks with 120 questions. Paper 2 includes Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine, also totaling 250 marks with 120 questions. Both papers are of objective type and last two hours.

UPSC CMS 2024 Exam Pattern – Paper 1 (Written exam)

UPSC CMS 2024 Exam Pattern – Paper 2 (Written exam)

UPSC CMS Syllabus 2024: What to Study?

The UPSC CMS Exam is a two-paper written test, focusing on both general knowledge and medical science. Here’s a breakdown of the syllabus for each paper:

UPSC CMS 2024 Syllabus for Paper 1

General Medicine:

• Cardiology
• Respiratory diseases
• Gastro-intestinal
• Genito-Urinary
• Neurology
• Haematology
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic disorders
• Infections/Communicable Diseases – Virus, Rickets, Bacterial, Spirochetal, Protozoan, Metazoan and Fungus
• Nutrition/Growth
• Diseases of the skin (Dermatology)
• Musculoskeletal System
• Psychiatry
• Genera
• Emergency Medicine
• Common Poisoning
• Snakebite
• Tropical Medicine
• Critical Care Medicine
• Emphasis on medical procedures
• Patho physiological basis of diseases
• Vaccines preventable diseases and Non-vaccines preventable diseases
• Vitamin deficiency diseases
• In psychiatry include – Depression, psychosis, anxiety, bipolar diseases
• and Schizophrenia.

Paediatrics:

• Common childhood emergencies,
• Basic new born care,
• Normal developmental milestones,
• Accidents and poisonings in children,
• Birth defects and counselling including autism,
• Immunization in children,
• Recognizing children with special needs and management, and
• National programmes related to child health.

UPSC CMS 2024 Syllabus for Paper 2

Surgery:

• General Surgery – Wounds, infections, Tumours, Lymphatic, Blood vessels, Cysts/sinuses, Head and neck, Breast, Alimentary tract, Oesophagus, Stomach, Intestines, Anus, Developmental, Liver, Bile, Pancreas, Spleen, Peritoneum, Abdominal wall and Abdominal injuries.
• Urological Surgery
• Neuro Surgery
• Otorhinolaryngology E.N.T.
• Thoracic surgery
• Orthopedic surgery
• Ophthalmology
• Anesthesiology
• Traumatology
• Diagnosis and management of common surgical ailments
• Pre-operative and post-operative care of surgical patients
• Medicolegal and ethical issues of surgery
• Wound healing
• Fluid and electrolyte management in surgery
• Shock pathophysiology and management.

Gynaecology & Obstetrics:

OBSTETRICS – 

• Ante-natal conditions, 
• Intra-natal conditions, 
• Post-natal conditions, 
• Management of normal labours or complicated labour.

GYNAECOLOGY – 

• Questions on applied anatomy, 
• Questions on applied physiology of menstruation and fertilization, 
• Questions on infections in the genital tract, 
• Questions on neoplasm in the genital tract, 
• Questions on the displacement of the uterus, 
• Normal delivery and safe delivery practices, 
• High-risk pregnancy and management, 
• Abortions, IntraUterine growth retardation, 
• Medicolegal examination in obgy and 
• Gynae including Rape.

FAMILY PLANNING – 

• Conventional contraceptives, 
• U.D. and oral pills, 
• Operative procedure, 
• sterilization and organization of programmes in the urban and rural surroundings, 
• Medical Termination of Pregnancy.

Preventive & Social Medicine:

• Social and Community Medicine
• Concept of Health, Disease and Preventive Medicine
• Health Administration and Planning
• General Epidemiology
• Demography and Health Statistics
• Communicable Diseases
• Environmental Health
• Nutrition and Health
• Non-communicable diseases
• Occupational Health
• Genetics and Health
• International Health
• Medical Sociology and Health Education
• Maternal and Child Health
• National Programmes
• Management of common health problems
• Ability to monitor national health programmes
• Knowledge of maternal and child wellness
• Ability to recognize, investigate, report, plan and manage community health problems including malnutrition and emergencies.

UPSC CMS 2024 Exam Centres List

The UPSC CMS 2024 examination will be conducted across various centers. The list of exam centers for UPSC CMS 2024 includes major cities across India such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Lucknow, Patna, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Chandigarh, and many more. Candidates can choose their preferred exam center while filling out the application form. However, the final allocation of the exam center will be done by the UPSC based on availability and other factors. It’s advised that candidates regularly check the official website of UPSC for any updates or changes regarding the exam centers.

1. AGARTALA
2. HYDERABAD
3. PATNA
4. AHMEDABAD
5. IMPHAL
6. PORT BLAIR
7. AIZWAL
8. ITANAGAR
9. PRAYAGRAJ
10. BAREILLY
11. JAIPUR
12. RAIPUR
13. BENGALURU
14. JAMMU
15. RANCHI
16. BHOPAL
17. JORHAT
18. SAMBALPUR
19. CHANDIGARH
20. KOCHI
21. SHILLONG
22. CHENNAI
23. KOHIMA
24. SHIMLA
25. CUTTACK
26. KOLKATA
27. SRINAGAR
28. DEHRADUN
29. LUCKNOW
30. THIRUVANATHAPURAM
31. DELHI
32. MADURAI
33. TIRUPATI
34. DHARWAD
35. MUMBAI
36. UDAIPUR
37. DISPUR
38. NAGPUR
39. VISHAKHAPATNAM
40. GANGTOK
41. PANAJI (GOA)

Understanding the Selection Process for UPSC CMS Exam 2024 :

The UPSC CMS selection process is two-fold:

1. Written Examination: As mentioned earlier, this consists of two papers, General Knowledge and Medical Science. Both papers carry equal weightage (200 marks each).
2. Interview/Personality Test: Shortlisted candidates from the written exam will be called for an interview. This stage assesses your personality, communication skills, leadership qualities, and suitability for the role of a Medical Officer in a government setting. The interview typically carries 100 marks.

How to Apply for UPSC CMS 2024

The application process for the UPSC CMS Exam is entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the UPSC Website: Head over to the official UPSC website https://upsc.gov.in/.
2. Find the CMS Exam Notification: Look for the “Examinations” section and navigate to the “Combined Medical Services Examination” notification for 2024.
3. UPSC CMS Registration and Create an Account: If you’re a new user, register yourself on the UPSC website. This will create your login credentials.
4. Fill Out the Online Application Form: Once logged in, locate the application form link for the UPSC CMS Exam. Carefully fill out the form, providing accurate details about your education, experience (if any), and other relevant information.
5. Upload Required Documents: Scan and upload the necessary documents as specified in the notification. These may include your MBBS degree certificate, photo identity proof, caste certificate (if applicable), and disability certificate (if applicable).
6. Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online using a debit/credit card or net banking. The fee amount may vary depending on your category (General, SC/ST, OBC etc.). Refer to the notification for specific details.
7. Review and Submit: Thoroughly review your application form to ensure all information is correct. Once satisfied, submit the online application form.
8. Save Confirmation Page: After successful submission, and save the confirmation page for your records.

Tips to Remember for UPSC CMS 2024 Exam

• Read the Notification Carefully: Before applying, ensure you’ve thoroughly read and understood the official UPSC CMS Exam notification for 2024. This document outlines all crucial details regarding eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, and the selection process.
• Keep Soft Copies of Documents: Maintain scanned copies of all documents uploaded during the application process.
• Stay Updated: Regularly visit the UPSC website for any updates or announcements related to the exam.

Additional Tips for UPSC CMS 2024 Exam Preparation

• Start Early: Preparation is key to success in the UPSC CMS Exam. Starting early allows you to cover the vast syllabus effectively.
• Develop a Study Plan: Create a structured study plan that allocates sufficient time for each subject in the syllabus.
• Focus on Understanding, Not Just Memorization: Aim to understand the core concepts of each subject rather than simply memorizing facts. This will help you apply your knowledge effectively during the exam.
• Utilize Quality Study Material: Invest in good quality reference books, study guides, and previous year question papers to aid your preparation.
• Practice Time Management: Practice solving mock tests and previous year papers under timed conditions. This will help you develop time management skills crucial for the actual exam.
• Join a Coaching Institute (Optional): Consider enrolling in a coaching institute specializing in UPSC preparation. They can provide valuable guidance, structured schedules, and practice tests.
• Stay Motivated: Preparing for competitive exams can be demanding. Stay motivated by focusing on your goal of becoming a Central Medical Officer and serving the community.

UPSC CMS 2024 Examination – Additional Resources

• UPSC CMS 2024 Notification：https://upsc.gov.in/sites/default/files/Notif-CMSE-Engl-060422.pdf
• UPSC CMS 2024 Website：https://upsc.gov.in/examinations/Combined%20Medical%20Services%20Examination%2C%202023
• UPSC CMS 2024 Previous Year Papers: https://upsc.gov.in/examinations/previous-question-papers?field_exam_name_value=Combined+Medical+Services+Examination

Conclusion: UPSC CMS 2024

The UPSC CMS Examination is a gateway to a rewarding career in government service, allowing you to contribute your medical expertise to the well-being of the nation. By carefully planning your preparation, using the information provided in this guide, and dedicating yourself to studying, you can increase your chances of success in this prestigious exam. Remember, with hard work, dedication, and the right approach, you can achieve your dream of becoming a Central Medical Officer!

Also Read

BPSC Teacher Recruitment 2024: Notification and Application Link Release

Bihar SSC Syllabus 2024: A Comprehensive Guide to BSSC Inter-Level Syllabus

FAQs: UPSC CMS 2024

Q1: What is UPSC CMS?

UPSC CMS stands for Union Public Service Commission Combined Medical Services Examination. It is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for the recruitment of medical officers in various government organizations like railways, Indian Ordnance Factories Health Service, Central Health Service, etc.

Q2: When will UPSC CMS 2024 notification be released?

The notification for UPSC CMS 2024 is usually released in April-May of the examination year. Candidates are advised to regularly check the UPSC official website for updates.

Q3: What is the UPSC CMS eligibility criteria in 2024?

The eligibility criteria for UPSC CMS 2024 include educational qualification, age limit, and nationality. Candidates must have an MBBS degree from a recognized university and should be below 32 years of age as of 1st August 2024. There are age relaxations for certain categories as per government norms. Candidates must be Indian citizens or subjects of Nepal, Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees.

Q4: What is the exam pattern for UPSC CMS 2024?

UPSC CMS 2024 is conducted in two parts – Part I and Part II. Part I consists of a Computer Based Examination (CBE) comprising two papers: Paper-I (General Medicine and Paediatrics) and Paper-II (Surgery, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine). Part II is the Personality Test (Interview). Both parts are mandatory.

Q5: How can I apply for UPSC CMS 2024?

Candidates can apply for UPSC CMS 2024 through the official UPSC website (www.upsc.gov.in) once the notification is released. The detailed instructions for filling up the application form are provided in the notification. Candidates need to complete the registration process, fill in the application form, upload the required documents, and pay the application fee to complete the application process.

Q6: What is the syllabus for UPSC CMS 2024 examination?

The syllabus for UPSC CMS 2024 includes topics from General Medicine, Paediatrics, Surgery, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine. Detailed syllabus is provided in the official notification.

Q7: What is the marking scheme for UPSC CMS 2024 examination?

The marking scheme for UPSC CMS 2024 includes negative marking for incorrect answers. One-third (0.33) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted as penalty for each wrong answer.

Q8: Is there any reservation for SC/ST/OBC candidates in UPSC CMS 2024?

Yes, reservation for SC/ST/OBC candidates is provided as per the Government of India norms. Candidates belonging to these categories are eligible for relaxation in age limit, qualifying marks, and other criteria as per the rules.

Q9: What is the selection process for UPSC CMS 2024?

The selection process for UPSC CMS 2024 involves two stages:  

1. Computer Based Examination (CBE): Candidates who qualify in the CBE are eligible for the Personality Test (Interview).  

2. Personality Test (Interview): The final selection is based on the candidate’s performance in the interview.

Q10: Can I choose my preferred center for the UPSC CMS 2024 examination?

Yes, candidates can choose their preferred examination center from the list of centers provided in the application form. However, the allotment of the center is subject to availability and discretion of the UPSC.

Q11: What are the important dates for UPSC CMS 2024?

The important dates for UPSC CMS 2024, including the release of notification, application start and end dates, UPSC CMS exam dates 2024, and result declaration, will be announced through the official notification. Candidates are advised to regularly check the UPSC website for updates.

Q12: How can I prepare for the UPSC CMS 2024 exam effectively?

Effective preparation for UPSC CMS 2024 requires thorough understanding of the syllabus, regular practice, and time management. Candidates should study the relevant topics from standard medical textbooks, solve previous years’ question papers, and take mock tests to assess their preparation level. Also, staying updated with current affairs related to medical science is essential.

Q13: What is the application fee for UPSC CMS 2024?

The application fee for UPSC CMS 2024 is Rs. 200 for General and OBC category candidates. Female/SC/ST/PwBD candidates are exempted from paying the application fee. The application fee can be paid online through net banking, credit/debit card, or offline by depositing the money in any branch of SBI.

Q14: Can I make corrections in the UPSC CMS 2024 application form after submission?

No, candidates cannot make corrections in the UPSC CMS 2024 Registration and application form once it is submitted. Therefore, it is advised to fill the application form carefully and verify all the details before final submission.

Q15: Is there any provision for revaluation or rechecking of the UPSC CMS 2024 examination papers?

No, there is no provision for revaluation or rechecking of the UPSC CMS 2024 examination papers. The evaluation process is final, and no requests for revaluation or rechecking are entertained by the UPSC.

Q16: Are calculators allowed in the UPSC CMS 2024 examination?

No, calculators or any electronic gadgets are not allowed inside the examination hall for UPSC CMS 2024. Candidates are provided with rough sheets for calculations, if required.

Q17: What documents are required during the UPSC CMS 2024 interview process?

Candidates are required to carry the following documents for the UPSC CMS 2024 interview process:

– Printout of the online application form.

– Admit card for the Computer Based Examination (CBE).

– Original and photocopies of educational certificates.

– Identity proof (Aadhar card, PAN card, Voter ID, etc.).

– Category certificate (if applicable).

– Any other relevant documents as specified in the UPSC CMS 2024 notification.

Q18: Is there any limit on the number of attempts for UPSC CMS 2024?

Yes, there is an attempt limit for UPSC CMS. The number of attempts is as follows:

– For General category candidates: 6 attempts.

– For OBC category candidates: 9 attempts.

– For SC/ST category candidates: Unlimited attempts until the upper age limit.

Q19: How can I get the admit card for UPSC CMS 2024?

Candidates can get the admit card for UPSC CMS 2024 from the official UPSC website (www.upsc.gov.in) once it is released. Admit cards are usually available for approximately two weeks before the examination date. Candidates need to log in using their registration ID and password to get the admit card.

Q20: What is the dress code for the UPSC CMS 2024 examination?

There is no specific dress code mentioned for the UPSC CMS 2024 examination. However, candidates are advised to wear comfortable and decent clothing. Avoid wearing clothes with too many pockets or any kind of jewelry.