IAS Age Limit 2026, Category Wise Age, Relaxations, Cut Off Date

IAS Age Limit 2026 is one of the essential criteria for candidates aspiring to appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE). It determines the minimum and maximum age within which an applicant is eligible to apply. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has set specific age limits to ensure a fair selection process. Candidates must carefully check their eligibility along with the IAS age limit before applying for the IAS Exam 2026 to avoid disqualification.

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What is the IAS Age Limit?

The IAS Age Limit refers to the age criteria set by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for candidates appearing for the Civil Services Examination. It determines the minimum and maximum age you must be to apply for the examination. The age limit is as follows:

Minimum Age: 21 years

Maximum Age: 32 years

This means candidates must be born between 2nd August 1994 and 1st August 2005, to be eligible for UPSC CSE 2026. These age limits apply to general category candidates, but relaxations are available for other categories.

IAS Age Cut Off Date 2026

The IAS Age Cut-Off Date 2026 refers to the specific date used to calculate a candidate's age for eligibility in the exam. Currently, the IAS age cut-off date is 1st August 2026. The age of candidates applying for the 2026 exam will be calculated based on their age on this date. So, ensure that you meet the age requirements before this cut-off date.

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IAS Age Limit 2026 Category Wise

The age limit for the IAS (Indian Administrative Service) exam in 2026 is supported by many provisions of age relaxation which aim to ensure equitable opportunities for candidates belonging to diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The category-wise age limit for the IAS 2026 exam is as follows:

• General Category: Candidates must be between 21 to 32 years old as of August 1, 2026. This means candidates must be born between August 2, 1993, and August 1, 2004.

• OBC (Other Backward Classes): The age limit is 21 to 35 years, allowing for a relaxation of 3 years.

• SC/ST (Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes): Candidates can apply until the age of 21 to 37 years, which includes a relaxation of 5 years.

• PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities): The age limit extends to 21 to 42 years, providing a relaxation of 10 years.

• Ex-servicemen: Specific relaxations apply based on military service duration and disability status. 

• Ex-Servicemen: 21 to 37 years (5-year relaxation)

• Disabled Defence Services Personnel: 21 to 35 years (3-year relaxation)

IAS Age Limit Relaxations

IAS age limit relaxations are an important consideration for aspirants from various categories. These relaxations allow candidates who might not meet the usual age requirements due to their background to still be eligible for the Civil Services Examination. Here are category-wise IAS age limit 2026 relaxation:

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 Note: Candidates claiming these relaxations must provide valid proof during the application process.

Other Eligibility Criteria for IAS

Apart from the age limits, IAS eligibility covers multidimensional criteria, ranging from educational qualifications to nationality and physical standards. Aspiring candidates who want to pursue their career in civil services must fulfill the below eligibility criteria to qualify for the examination:

• Educational Qualifications: Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university or institution to demonstrate the candidate’s foundational level of academic proficiency and intellectual acumen requisite for the demands of civil services.

• Nationality: The candidate must be a citizen of India. 

• Number of Attempts: General category candidates have a maximum of 6 attempts to clear the UPSC CSE. OBC candidates can attempt up to 9 times, while SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts until they reach the age limit.

• Physical Standards: While there are no strict physical standards for the written examination or interview, a medical examination is conducted at a later stage to ensure that the candidate is fit for administrative duties.

• Other Disqualifications: A candidate cannot appear for the exam if he/she has been disqualified or debarred from any previous UPSC examination or has been found guilty of misconduct during the exam.

In conclusion, the IAS Age Limit 2026 and eligibility criteria play a crucial role in your journey toward becoming an IAS officer. If you're eligible, start preparing well in advance to increase your chances of success!

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