The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has opened applications for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026. Candidates can apply online until February 24 . The preliminary exam is scheduled for May 24, 2026 , with the main exam on August 21, 2026 .
Vacancies Announced
A total of 933 vacancies are available. These positions are in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFS).
Application Fees
General, Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) candidates must pay a fee of Rs 100 . Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Ex-servicemen, Persons with Disabilities (PwD), and female candidates are exempt from the fee.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree. Accepted degree subjects include animal husbandry and veterinary science, botany, chemistry, geology, mathematics, physics, statistics, or zoology. Degrees in agriculture, forestry, or engineering are also accepted.
Age Limits
The maximum age for general and EWS candidates is 32 years . For OBC candidates, it is 35 years . SC and ST candidates have a maximum age of 37 years . Candidates with disabilities can receive age relaxation up to 40 years .
Attempt Limits
General category candidates can attempt the exam six times. OBC candidates have nine attempts. SC and ST candidates can attempt the exam until they reach their maximum age limit.
How to Apply
Visit the official UPSC website, upsconline.nic.in . Click on the link for the Civil Services Examination 2026. Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) process. Log in with your credentials. Fill out the application form. Upload necessary documents and pay the fee if applicable. Submit the form and keep a printout.