UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026: Complete Notification, Eligibility & Exam Details

Important Dates – UPSC CSE 2026

• Notification Release Date: 4 February 2026

• Last Date to Apply Online: 24 February 2026 (till 6:00 PM)

• Preliminary Examination Date: 24 May 2026

Candidates must apply online only through the official UPSC portal.

Services Offered Through UPSC CSE

UPSC CSE recruits candidates for various prestigious services, including:

• Indian Administrative Service (IAS)

• Indian Police Service (IPS)

• Indian Foreign Service (IFS)

• Indian Revenue Service (Income Tax & Customs)

• Indian Audit & Accounts Service

• Indian Railway Management Service

• Other Group A and Group B Central Services

A total of around 933 vacancies are expected, including reservations for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD).

Eligibility Criteria

Nationality

• For IAS, IPS, and IFS: Must be a Citizen of India

• For other services: Citizens of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibetan refugees, or Persons of Indian Origin (as per rules)

Age Limit (as on 1 August 2026)

• Minimum Age: 21 years

• Maximum Age: 32 years

• Age relaxations are applicable for SC/ST, OBC, PwBD, Ex-servicemen, as per government norms.

Educational Qualification

• A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university

• Final-year students can also apply (subject to conditions)

Number of Attempts Allowed

• General / EWS: 6 attempts

• OBC: 9 attempts

• SC / ST: Unlimited attempts

• PwBD: As per category rules

Appearing in the Preliminary Examination is counted as one attempt.

Exam Pattern – UPSC CSE 2026

Stage 1: Preliminary Examination

• Two objective-type papers (200 marks each)

  • General Studies Paper I

  • General Studies Paper II (CSAT)

• Negative marking applicable

• Used only for screening (marks not added to final rank)

Stage 2: Main Examination

• 9 descriptive papers (Essay, GS Papers, Optional Subject)

• Marks counted for final merit

Stage 3: Interview / Personality Test

• 275 marks

• Final ranking based on Mains + Interview marks

Application Fee

• ₹100 for General, OBC, and EWS candidates

• No fee for Women, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates

Fee payment is online only (UPI, Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking).

How to Apply for UPSC CSE 2026

1. Visit the official website: https://upsconline.nic.in

2. Complete One-Time Registration (URN)

3. Fill the Common Application Form

4. Submit the Exam-specific Application Form

5. Upload photo, signature, and required documents

6. Pay the application fee (if applicable)

7. Submit the form before 24 February 2026

⚠️ Once submitted, the application cannot be withdrawn or edited.

Key Instructions for Candidates

• Mobile phones and electronic devices are strictly banned in exam centers

• Admit cards will be available online only

• Face authentication will be conducted at exam venues

• Candidates must carry valid photo ID

Conclusion

The UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026 is a golden opportunity for aspirants aiming to serve the nation through top administrative roles. With proper planning, consistent preparation, and a clear understanding of the exam process, success is achievable.

Start your preparation early, stay updated with official notifications, and apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

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