The UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE) 2026 notification has been officially released for 933 vacancies across India’s most prestigious services, including IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, and other Central Group A services. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this examination is widely regarded as one of the toughest and most respected competitive exams in the country.
Every year, lakhs of graduates apply for the UPSC Civil Services Examination with the dream of serving the nation in top administrative roles. From policy-making to law enforcement and international diplomacy, selected candidates play a crucial role in shaping India’s future.
If you are a graduate looking for a high-status government career with job security, leadership authority, and attractive salary benefits, UPSC CSE 2026 is a golden opportunity you should not miss.
Candidates can check the official notification and apply online through the official UPSC website:
👉 https://www.upsc.gov.in
Important Dates (Expected Timeline 2026)
Notification Release: February 4, 2026
Online Application Start: 4 February to 24 February (6:00 PM).
Preliminary Exam: May 24, 2026.
Mains Exam: August 21, 2026.
Final Result: To be announced 2027
Candidates should regularly check official updates on Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
UPSC CSE 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Civil Services Examination 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Total Vacancies | 933 Posts |
| Qualification | Graduate (Any Discipline) |
| Selection Process | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Job Location | All India |
Services Offered Through UPSC CSE 2026
Candidates selected through UPSC Civil Services Exam 2026 will be appointed to top services such as:
Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
Indian Police Service (IPS)
Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
Indian Railway Services
Other Central Group A & Group B Services
These services offer high salary, job security, decision-making authority, and excellent career growth.
UPSC Civil Services Exam 2026 Eligibility Criteria
1️⃣ Educational Qualification
Candidate must hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university.
Final-year students can apply (subject to degree completion before Mains).
No minimum percentage required.
2️⃣ Age Limit (As per general norms)
Minimum Age: 21 years
Maximum Age: 32 years (General Category)
Age Relaxation
OBC: 3 years
SC/ST: 5 years
PwBD: As per government rules
Number of Attempts
General Category: 6 attempts
OBC: 9 attempts
SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (within age limit)
This makes strategic planning very important for aspirants.
UPSC Civil Services Exam Pattern 2026
The UPSC CSE selection process consists of three stages:
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
The Preliminary exam includes two papers:
General Studies Paper I
CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test)
Both papers are objective type (MCQs). Only marks of GS Paper I are counted for merit, while CSAT is qualifying in nature.
Subjects covered include:
History
Geography
Polity
Economy
Environment
Science & Technology
Current Affairs
Stage 2: Main Examination (Descriptive)
The Mains exam consists of 9 papers:
Essay
General Studies I
General Studies II
General Studies III
General Studies IV
Optional Subject Paper I
Optional Subject Paper II
Language Papers (Qualifying)
The Mains examination tests analytical ability, writing skills, conceptual clarity, and depth of understanding.
Stage 3: Personality Test (Interview)
Candidates who clear Mains are called for an Interview.
The Interview evaluates:
Personality
Leadership qualities
Decision-making ability
Communication skills
Administrative aptitude
Final merit list is prepared based on Mains + Interview marks.