How Many Attempts for UPSC 2026, Check Category Wise Maximum Attempts
How Many Attempts for UPSC 2026? Learn the answer and discover all the information on the age limit category wise, and the number of UPSC exam attempts.
Anil Solonki15 Sept, 2025
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What is the Number of Attempts in UPSC? It is a question asked by many aspirants. UPSC Exam is an essential step for those aspiring to enter into the civil services of India and there is a specified limit on the number of attempts in UPSC and an upper age limit for eligibility according to which a candidate can apply for the exam.
UPSC attempt limit is one of the most often disputed subjects among civil service exam candidates. Generally, six attempts at the maximum age of 32 years can be made by the candidate belonging to the general category. However, certain categories are provided with relaxation in attempts. The number of attempts varies per category in accordance with the UPSC Rules.How Many Attempts in UPSC Exam 2026?
Candidates need to know that they can only apply for the UPSC Exam a limited number of times as per the eligibility criteria. Understanding the attempt limit is crucial for candidates to plan and execute their preparation strategy effectively. The number of attempts for the UPSC exam is different for candidates from different categories. The candidates from the general category can make six attempts , while candidates from the SC/ST categories can make the highest number of attempts.
Besides the number of attempts, candidates must also consider their age limit. The attempts will not be of any use if they reach their upper age limit. Therefore, candidates should make the most of the attempts they have before reaching their age limit. Further, the attempts are the same for all the positions such as IPS, IRS, IFS, and others.
What is the Maximum Number of Attempts in UPSC 2026?
The "maximum number of attempts" in the context of the UPSC Civil Services Examination refers to the total number of times a candidate is allowed to appear for the exam, regardless of whether they qualify or not. Once a candidate reaches the maximum number of attempts, they are no longer eligible to sit for the exam, even if they have not yet reached the age limit.| Maximum Number of Attempts in UPSC | ||
| Category | Maximum Age | Number of Attempts till Max. Age Limit |
| General/EWS | 32 Years | 6 |
| OBC | 35 Years | 9 |
| SC/ST | 37 Years | Unlimited |
| Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD) | 42 Years |
|
| Note: The attempt will be counted if candidates appear in any one paper of the UPSC Prelim exam stage. | ||
How Many Attempts in UPSC for General Category?
Applicants in the general category are permitted to take the UPSC exam up to six times. As we have already mentioned above, the general category candidates get a lower number of UPSC Attempts, which is six. Additionally, candidates must also consider the upper age limit to fulfil their six attempts before reaching their upper age limit. Check the complete details below:| Attempts in UPSC For General Category | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Number of Attempts | 6 |
| Maximum Age Limits | 32 |
How Many Attempts in UPSC for OBC Category?
Many students frequently inquire about the number of UPSC attempts permitted for the OBC category because the OBC UPSC attempts limit is larger and provides more opportunities than the general category. Candidates belonging to the OBC category receive relaxation in the upper age limit and the number of attempts allowed for UPSC exams. The UPSC attempt limit for the OBC category is 9. Additionally, the upper age limit for OBC candidates appearing for the IAS Exam is 35 years. Let's learn How many attempts for UPSC for obc category.| Attempts in UPSC For OBC Category | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Number of Attempts | 9 |
| Maximum Age Limits | 35 |
How Many Attempts in UPSC for SC/ST Category?
UPSC provides a relaxation of 5 years to the SC/ST category. Along with that, Candidates belonging to the SC/ST category can have unlimited numbers of attempts in UPSC exams.| Attempts in UPSC For SC/ST Category | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Number of Attempts | Unlimited |
| Maximum Age Limits | 37 |
How Many Attempts in UPSC for PwBD Category?
Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD) are typically provided with nine attempts and age relaxation of up to 42 years, depending on the category overlap. However, PwBD belonging to the SC/ST category will get unlimited attempts.| Attempts in UPSC For PwBD Category | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Number of Attempts | 9 |
| Maximum Age Limits | 42 |
Attempts in UPSC for Ex-Servicemen & Disabled Defence Services Personnel
Ex-servicemen and Disabled Defence Services Personnel are eligible for up to 9 UPSC attempts. Their age limit is based on specific conditions and their category affiliation.| Attempts in UPSC For Ex-Servicemen & Disabled Defence Services Personnel | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Number of Attempts | 9 |
| Maximum Age Limits | Depend on specific conditions and category affiliations |
How to Crack UPSC in First Attempt?
Achieving success in the UPSC exam, particularly on the first try, demands more than just hard work; it requires a smart, strategic approach. So, we have compiled some key strategies to help you prepare better:- Dedication and Focus: Candidates must stay focused and dedicated. Committing fully to your preparation plan is non-negotiable.
- Effective Planning: Organize your study schedule to cover the extensive syllabus systematically.
- Set Realistic Goals: Break down your preparation into manageable goals for both the short and long-term topics.
- Practice and Revision: Regularly practising mock tests and revising key concepts can significantly boost confidence and knowledge retention.
- Seeking Guidance: Mentors or coaching can provide valuable insights and keep you aligned with your UPSC goals. Every attempt is an opportunity to learn and grow closer to your goal. Whether it's your first or final attempt, focusing on improvement, learning from past mistakes, and maintaining resilience is key to success.
Attempts in UPSC FAQs
Are there 4 attempts for UPSC CSE?
No, candidates in the general category have 6 attempts, while OBC candidates have 9 attempts, and SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts.
Who can give 12 attempts in UPSC 2025?
No category is allowed 12 attempts; however, SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts until they reach the age limit of 37 years.
Can a 40 year old take the UPSC IAS exam?
A 40-year-old can take the UPSC IAS exam only if they belong to the PwBD category, which has an age limit of up to 42 years, or certain categories of Ex-Servicemen, based on specific conditions.
How does UPSC check the number of attempts?
UPSC tracks the number of attempts by the candidate's application records and roll numbers issued for each attempt.
When were UPSC attempts increased from 4 to 6?
The number of attempts for general category candidates was increased from 4 to 6 in 2014.
How many UPSC attempts for general?
There are 6 UPSC attempts for general categories.
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