The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will conclude the application process for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) / Indian Engineering Services (IES) 2026 on October 16, 2025, at 6 PM . This national-level examination recruits engineers for various central government departments and organizations. The application window opened on September 26, 2025, offering 474 vacancies across different engineering disciplines. The preliminary examination for IES/ESE 2026 is scheduled for February 8, 2026 .
About the UPSC Engineering Services Examination
The ESE, also known as IES, is a highly competitive examination for engineering graduates seeking employment in India’s central government. Successful candidates are recruited into various Group A and Group B services, including departments like Railways, Central Water Commission, Central Engineering Service, and Border Roads Engineering Service. The examination assesses candidates’ technical knowledge and aptitude in civil, mechanical, electrical, and electronics & telecommunication engineering fields.
Application Fee and Exemptions
A non-refundable application fee of INR 200 is required from most applicants. However, UPSC provides exemptions for specific categories. Female candidates, Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates, Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates, and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) are not required to pay the application fee.
Important Dates for IES/ESE 2026
Candidates should note the following critical dates for the UPSC IES/ESE 2026 examination:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Process Begins | September 26, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | October 16, 2025 (6 PM) |
| Preliminary Examination | February 8, 2026 |
Eligibility Requirements
Only candidates who meet the eligibility criteria specified in the official UPSC notification can apply for the IES/ESE 2026. These criteria typically include educational qualifications (a degree in engineering), age limits, and nationality requirements. Applicants are strongly advised to consult the detailed official notification available on the UPSC website to confirm their eligibility before applying.
How to Apply Online
The application process for the UPSC IES/ESE 2026 is conducted entirely online. Follow these steps for successful submission:
- Visit the official UPSC online application portal: upsconline.nic.in .
- Create a new account if you are a first-time applicant. This process involves generating a Universal Registration Number (URN).
- Provide details of one valid Photo ID during URN generation. Accepted IDs include Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN, Passport, Driving Licence, or any other government-issued identification.
- Fill out the Common Application Form (CAF). If you have previously completed the initial three parts of the registration, proceed directly to Part 4, which is the exam-specific form.
- Accurately enter all requested personal and academic information. Upload all necessary documents as per the specified format and size guidelines.
- Pay the applicable application fee, if you are not exempt.
- Thoroughly review all entered information and uploaded documents before finalizing the submission. Ensure there are no errors.
- Submit the online form and print a copy for your records.
Crucial Reminders for Applicants
Candidates must submit their applications well before the October 16, 2025 deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. Applications submitted after 6 PM on the closing date will not be considered. Adhering strictly to instructions for document uploads and fee payment is essential for a complete application. UPSC will not extend the application deadline, making timely submission critical.
Official Resources
For the latest updates, detailed notification, and official information regarding the UPSC ESE/IES 2026 examination, candidates should refer to the Union Public Service Commission’s official websites: upsc.gov.in and upsconline.nic.in . These platforms serve as the primary source for all exam-related announcements and guidelines.