The application window for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026, also known as IES, will close on October 16, 2025 . Candidates interested in applying must complete their online submissions via the official website, upsc.gov.in, by 6:00 PM on the deadline day. This examination is a critical gateway for engineering graduates seeking positions in various government departments and organizations.
Application Deadline and Key Information
UPSC officially announced the closing date for the IES 2026 application process as October 16, 2025. All submissions must be made digitally through the UPSC’s online portal. The Commission has set a strict deadline of 6:00 PM on the closing day. Applicants are advised to submit their forms well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Application Fee Details
An application fee applies to most candidates. General category applicants must pay INR 200 . However, UPSC provides fee exemptions for specific groups. Female candidates, Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) applicants are not required to pay any application fee. This policy aims to ensure equitable access to the examination for diverse sections of society.
Correction Facility and Registration Details
Following the closure of the application window, UPSC is expected to activate a correction facility. This provision allows candidates to amend certain details in their submitted application forms. As of now, the specific dates for this correction window have not been announced. However, applicants must note one crucial detail: information provided during the UPSC One-Time Registration (OTR) process cannot be altered. Candidates must ensure their OTR details are accurate before proceeding with the IES application.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Candidates must follow a structured online procedure to complete their UPSC IES 2026 application. The steps are designed to ensure all necessary information and documents are accurately provided:
- Access Official Website: Navigate to the UPSC online application portal at upsconline.nic.in. This is the sole platform for submitting applications.
- Create One-Time Registration (OTR): New users must create an OTR account and generate a Universal Registration Number (URN). This step requires providing details of a valid Photo ID. Acceptable IDs include Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN, Passport, Driving Licence, or any other government-issued identification. Ensure all OTR details are correct as they are unchangeable.
- Fill Common Application Form (CAF): After OTR, proceed to the Common Application Form. If initial OTR steps were completed previously, candidates can move directly to Part 4, which is the exam-specific section of the form.
- Enter Detailed Information & Upload Documents: Provide all required personal, educational, and experience-related information. This stage also involves uploading scanned copies of necessary documents, such as photographs, signatures, and educational certificates, as per UPSC specifications.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review all entered data and uploaded documents for accuracy. Any discrepancies could lead to rejection. After verification, submit the online application form. Confirmation of submission is crucial for a valid application.
Important Dates for UPSC IES 2026
Candidates should be aware of the following key dates:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | (Not provided in original content) |
| Application Closing Date | October 16, 2025 (6:00 PM) |
| Application Correction Window | To be announced |
Next Steps for Applicants
Once the application is submitted, candidates should keep a copy of the filled form for their records. Regularly check the official UPSC websites (upsc.gov.in and upsconline.nic.in) for updates regarding the correction window, admit card release, and examination schedule. Preparing thoroughly for the Engineering Services Examination remains paramount for successful candidates.