UPSC Notification 2026: Civil Services Exam Dates, 933 Vacancies, and Eligibility Guide

The wait for India’s most prestigious administrative challenge is over. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) officially released the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2026 notification today, February 4, 2026. This announcement marks the beginning of the journey for thousands of aspirants eyeing seats in the IAS, IPS, IFS, and other elite central services.

Key Highlights: UPSC CSE 2026 Overview

For those ready to apply for UPSC, here is the essential breakdown of the civil services recruitment cycle for this year.

Detailed UPSC Exam Schedule 2026

Timing is everything in the UPSC application process. Mark your calendars for these critical UPSC exam dates:

• UPSC Prelims 2026: May 24, 2026

• UPSC Mains 2026: Commencing August 21, 2026 (spanning 5 days)

• Personality Test: Expected February–March 2027

UPSC CSE Eligibility Criteria: Are You Eligible?

Before you start your IAS exam eligibility check, ensure you meet the following statutory requirements as of August 1, 2026:

1. Age Limit & Relaxations

The baseline age requirement is 21 to 32 years. However, the vacancies in UPSC are accessible to a wider demographic through specific relaxations:

• General/EWS: 32 Years (Max)

• OBC: 35 Years (Max)

• SC/ST: 37 Years (Max)

• PwBD: Up to 42 Years (Max)

2. Number of Attempts

• General/EWS: 6 attempts

• OBC / PwBD (Gen/OBC): 9 attempts

• SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (within age limit)

3. Educational Qualification

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Final-year students are eligible to apply for the Prelims, provided they can produce proof of passing by the time of the Main examination.

How to Apply for UPSC 2026: Step-by-Step

The UPSC application process is now strictly through the One Time Registration (OTR) platform.

1. OTR Registration: Visit upsconline.nic.in to create your permanent profile. If already registered, simply log in.

2. Fill Application: Navigate to the "Latest Notification" tab and select "Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2026."

3. Upload Documents: Ensure your photograph and signature meet the 20 KB – 300 KB size requirement in JPG format.

4. Fee Payment: A nominal fee of ₹100 applies to General/OBC/EWS male candidates. Women, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates are exempt from fees.

List of Prestigious Services

The 2026 recruitment covers Group A and Group B roles including:

• Indian Administrative Service (IAS)

• Indian Police Service (IPS)

• Indian Foreign Service (IFS)

• Indian Revenue Service (IRS - IT & Customs)

• Indian Audit and Accounts Service

• DANICS and PONDICS (Union Territory Services)

Pro-Tip: The application window is short (only 20 days). Avoid the last-minute server rush and complete your OTR profile today.