UPSC CSE
ActiveCivil Services Examination
Dates & Timeline
2026
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Notification4 Feb 2026
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Application Deadline27 Feb 2026
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Admit Card14 Aug 2025
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Exam Date24 May 2026
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Counselling2 Dec 2025
Confirmed
2025
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Notification22 Jan 2025
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Application Deadline21 Feb 2025
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Admit Card13 May 2025
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Exam Date25 May 2025
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Eligibility
Age 21–32 years. Graduate from a recognised university. SC/ST have unlimited attempts within age limit.
Age limit21–32 years
EducationGraduate from a recognised university
AttemptsSC/ST have unlimited attempts within age limit
Age relaxationOBC +3, SC ST +5, PwD +10
Selection Process
1
Preliminary Examination
Two objective papers — GS Paper I (200 marks) and CSAT Paper II (200 marks, qualifying). Filters for Mains.
2
Main Examination
Nine papers — Essay, GS I-IV, Optional Subject (2 papers), and two language papers. 1750 marks counted for merit.
3
Personality Test / Interview
275 marks. Conducted at UPSC Bhavan, New Delhi. Tests personality and suitability for civil services.
About UPSC CSE
India's premier civil services exam. Selects candidates for IAS, IPS, IFS, and other Group A/B central services. Held annually by the Union Public Service Commission.