Civil Services Examination 2026: Complete Guide

The Civil Services Examination 2026 conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is the most prestigious examination in India for recruitment into services such as IAS, IPS, IFS, and other central services. Aspirants preparing for the Civil Services Examination 2026 need to understand the eligibility, application process, exam pattern, and important dates to maximize their chances of success.

This blog covers all aspects of the Civil Services Examination 2026, including official notification details, examination schedule, vacancies, eligibility criteria, fees, syllabus, and preparation tips.

1. Important Dates and Application Process

• Notification Date: February 4, 2026
• Application Window: February 4, 2026, to February 24, 2026 (6:00 PM)
• Preliminary Exam Date: May 24, 2026
• Official Application Portal: https://upsconline.nic.in

Application Process:
Candidates must register using the Universal Registration Number (URN) and complete the online application. A recent photograph and live photograph capture are mandatory. Identity proof such as Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN, Passport, or Driving Licence must be provided during registration.

Admit Cards: Will be issued on the last working day of the week preceding the exam date.

2. Vacancies and Services

• Total Vacancies: 933 (33 reserved for PwBD candidates)
• Services Covered: IAS, IFS, IPS, Indian Audit & Accounts Service, Indian Revenue Service, Indian Railway Management Service, and other Group ‘A’ & ‘B’ services.
• Prabitha Setu Portal: Provides employment opportunities for candidates not recommended in interviews, with consent.

3. Eligibility Criteria

A. Nationality

• IAS, IFS, IPS: Must be Indian citizens.
• Other services: Indian citizens, Nepal/Bhutan subjects, Tibetan refugees (pre-1962), or Persons of Indian Origin from specific countries.

B. Age Limit

• 21–32 years as of August 1, 2026.
• Relaxations: SC/ST – 5 yrs, OBC – 3 yrs, PwBD – 10 yrs, Ex-Servicemen – 3–5 yrs.

C. Educational Qualification

• Graduate degree from a recognized university. Final year students or MBBS interns can apply provisionally.

D. Number of Attempts

• General: 6 attempts, OBC/PwBD: 9 attempts, SC/ST: Unlimited

E. Restrictions

• Candidates already appointed to IAS, IFS, or IPS have restrictions on reapplying.

4. Examination Fees

• Rs. 100/- for Preliminary Exam
• Exemptions for Female, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates
• Payment via Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card, or UPI

5. Examination Pattern

Stage I – Preliminary Examination

• Two objective papers (GS I & CSAT II) of 200 marks each
• Negative marking: 1/3 for incorrect answers
• CSAT is qualifying with minimum 33%

Stage II – Main Examination

• Nine papers, including two qualifying (Indian Language & English)
• Papers for Merit: Essay, General Studies I–IV, Optional Papers 1 & 2
• Total marks: 2025
• Interview/Personality Test: 275 marks

Tie-Breaking Rules: Marks in compulsory papers + interview, then age seniority.

6. Optional Subjects

Candidates can select from subjects like Agriculture, Anthropology, History, Geography, Public Administration, Political Science, Literature, Engineering, Science subjects, and more.

7. Examination Centres

• Prelims: 80+ centres including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai
• Mains: 27 centres including Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Chandigarh
• Allocation: First-apply-first-allot

8. PwBD Candidates Regulations

• Scribes allowed for eligible disabilities
• Compensatory time: 20 minutes per hour

9. Conduct and Discipline

• Face authentication mandatory
• Mobile phones, smartwatches, and electronics strictly prohibited
• Unfair means lead to debarment and legal action

Conclusion

The Civil Services Examination 2026 is an opportunity for aspirants to serve the nation through prestigious central services. Understanding the official notification, following the application process, adhering to eligibility criteria, and preparing systematically are key to success. Stay updated with official UPSC sources and download notifications for accurate guidance.

Also Read: BSNL Recruitment 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the UPSC Notification 2026 out and what are the key dates?
Yes. The Union Public Service Commission released the Examination Notice No. 05/2026-CSE on February 4, 2026. The application window is open till February 24, 2026, 6:00 PM.

2. How many posts are available in UPSC 2026?
Approximately 933 vacancies, including 33 reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD).

3. Who is eligible for the UPSC 2026 vacancy regarding age?
Candidates must be between 21 and 32 years as of August 1, 2026. Birth date range: August 2, 1994 – August 1, 2005.

4. How do I apply for the UPSC exam in 2026?
Apply online at https://upsconline.nic.in with four steps:

1. Account Creation/OTR – Generate Universal Registration Number (URN).
2. Examination-specific Application Form – Fill all details.
3. Photo Upload – Recent and live photograph.
4. Fee Payment – Rs. 100 (exemptions applicable).

5. Will the UPSC pattern change in 2026?
No. The examination will follow the standard two-stage pattern: Preliminary (Objective) and Main Examination (Written + Interview).

6. Who gets 6 attempts in UPSC?
General category candidates get 6 attempts. SC/ST have unlimited attempts; OBC and PwBD candidates get 9 attempts.

7. Will UPSC increase the age limit in 2026 for specific categories?
Yes. Relaxation is applicable: SC/ST – 5 yrs, OBC – 3 yrs, Defence Services/Ex-Servicemen – 3/5 yrs, PwBD – 10 yrs.

8. When is the UPSC 2026 Preliminary Exam?
May 24, 2026. Candidates should reach 30 minutes before the exam.

9. Can I withdraw my UPSC 2026 application?
No. Applications cannot be withdrawn. Corrections are not allowed after submission, except for one-time URN profile update.

10. Is there negative marking in the UPSC 2026 exam?
Yes. One-third (0.33) marks will be deducted for each wrong answer in the Preliminary Exam. Multiple answers for one question are treated as wrong.