The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the timetable for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 preliminary stage. This initial phase of the ESE 2026 recruitment is set for February 8, 2026 . The examination will take place at various designated centers across India. This preliminary exam serves as the first filter in the multi-stage selection process.
The UPSC ESE 2026 aims to fill a total of 474 posts . These positions are across different engineering disciplines within central government departments. Securing one of these posts offers a career opportunity within the public sector. Successful qualification in this preliminary examination is mandatory for candidates to progress to the subsequent main examination.
Preliminary Exam Structure
The Engineering Services Examination preliminary stage includes two distinct papers. Each paper is conducted in a separate session on the examination day. This two-paper format assesses candidates’ general aptitude and specialized engineering knowledge. Candidates must appear for both papers for consideration in further stages of the selection process.
The first session will feature Paper 1 , known as the General Studies and Engineering Aptitude Paper. This paper is common to all engineering branches. Every candidate attempting the ESE 2026 preliminary exam will take this same paper. It evaluates a candidate’s understanding of general subjects and fundamental engineering principles. Paper 1 carries a maximum of 200 marks . Its duration is two hours, specifically from 9:30 am to 11:30 am .
Following a break, the second session is for Paper 2 . This paper is discipline-specific, tailored to the particular engineering branch chosen by the candidate. Paper 2 will commence at 2 pm and conclude at 5 pm , allowing three hours for completion. It is weighted at 300 marks . This paper focuses on in-depth technical knowledge relevant to the candidate’s engineering discipline.
Engineering Disciplines and Identification Codes
UPSC conducts Paper 2 for four primary engineering disciplines. Each discipline is assigned a unique subject code. These codes are essential for accurate registration and examination processing. They ensure candidates receive the correct discipline-specific paper during the exam.
The specific engineering disciplines and their corresponding subject codes for Paper 2 are:
- Civil Engineering : Subject Code 11
- Mechanical Engineering : Subject Code 21
- Electrical Engineering : Subject Code 31
- Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering : Subject Code 41
The General Studies and Engineering Aptitude Paper (Paper 1) uses a standard subject code of 01 for all candidates. This common code applies regardless of their chosen engineering discipline, simplifying the general paper’s administration.
UPSC ESE 2026 Preliminary Exam Timetable Overview
The official timetable for the UPSC Engineering Services Preliminary Examination 2026 is detailed below. Candidates should note these timings for exam day preparation.
| Date and Day | Time | Subject / Paper |
|---|---|---|
| February 8, 2026 | 9:30 am – 11:30 am | General Studies and Engineering Aptitude (Paper 1) |
| February 8, 2026 | 2 pm – 5 pm | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering (Discipline-Specific Paper 2) |
Comprehensive Selection Process
The Engineering Services Examination uses a three-stage selection process. This process evaluates candidates for roles within central government departments. Understanding each stage is important for candidates entering this competitive examination.
The three stages of the UPSC ESE 2026 are:
- Stage-I: Preliminary Examination – This initial screening test is on February 8, 2026.
- Stage-II: Main Examination – Candidates who clear Stage-I become eligible for this detailed written examination.
- Stage-III: Personality Test – The final stage involves an interview. It assesses a candidate’s personality and suitability for public service.
Progression through these stages is sequential. Only candidates who qualify the preliminary examination (Stage-I) gain eligibility for the main examination (Stage-II). Final selection for the 474 posts depends on a candidate’s combined performance across all three stages.