The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 notification, calling for applications for approximately 933 highly coveted posts including IAS, IPS, and IFS. This recruitment drive offers ambitious candidates a chance to secure prestigious UPSC jobs in the highest echelons of Indian bureaucracy.
Candidates holding a valid graduate jobs qualification are eligible to apply for the Civil Services Examination 2026. The online application process began on February 4, 2026, and the crucial deadline for submission is February 24, 2026 (6:00 PM). Prospective applicants must review the detailed eligibility criteria, age limits, and the multi-stage selection process, which includes the Preliminary Exam (scheduled for May 24, 2026), the Main Exam, and the Personality Test.
UPSC Recruitment 2026 – Civil Services Examination (CSE) Overview
| Organization Name | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 |
| Post Type | Group A & Group B Services (IAS, IPS, IFS, etc.) |
| Total Vacancy Count | Approximately 933 Posts |
| Qualification Required | Graduate Degree (Any Discipline) |
| Age Limit (as on 01-08-2026) | 21–32 Years |
| Apply Online Start Date | 04 February 2026 |
| Apply Online Last Date | 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM) |
| Preliminary Exam Date | 24 May 2026 |
| Apply Mode | Online |
| Official Website | www.upsc.gov.in |
Vacancy Details (Approx 933 Posts)
The 933 vacancies cover multiple prestigious services across All India Services and Central Services Group A & B:
- Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
- Indian Police Service (IPS)
- Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
- Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
- Indian Audit & Accounts Service
- DANICS, DANIPS, and Other Central Services
Eligibility Criteria and Age Relaxation
Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a Graduate Degree from a recognized University or equivalent qualification.
Age Limit (as on 01 August 2026):
- Minimum Age: 21 Years
- Maximum Age: 32 Years
Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST: 5 Years
- OBC: 3 Years
- PwBD: Up to 10 Years
Application Fee Structure
| Category | Fee |
| General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 100/- |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Women | Nil (Exempted) |
Selection Process
- Civil Services Preliminary Examination (Objective)
- Civil Services Main Examination (Written)
- Interview / Personality Test (275 Marks)
- Document Verification
Important Dates
| Notification Release Date | 04 February 2026 |
| Opening Date to Apply Online | 04 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM) |
| Preliminary Exam Date | 24 May 2026 |
UPSC CSE 2026 Preliminary Examination Pattern Highlights
The Prelims serve as a screening test and consist of two objective papers:
- Paper I (General Studies): 200 Marks. Used for merit shortlisting.
- Paper II (CSAT/Aptitude Test): 200 Marks. Qualifying in nature (33% minimum required).
- Negative Marking: 1/3rd mark deduction for every wrong answer in both papers.
UPSC CSE 2026 Main Examination Pattern
The Main Examination includes 9 papers (2 Qualifying + 7 Merit papers). The final ranking is determined by the scores in the 7 merit papers (1750 marks) plus the Interview (275 marks), totaling 2025 marks.
How to Apply Online for UPSC CSE 2026
- Visit the official UPSC online portal: upsconline.nic.in.
- Complete the mandatory One-Time Registration (OTR) process.
- Log in and select the Civil Services Examination 2026 application form.
- Fill in all personal and educational details accurately.
- Upload required documents (photo and signature).
- Pay the application fee (if applicable) online.
- Review and submit the form before the deadline of 24 February 2026.
Important Links
| Apply Now | Notification PDF |
| Official Website | Join Telegram |
| WhatsApp Channel | |
UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026 – FAQs
What is the last date to apply for UPSC CSE 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 24 February 2026 up to 6:00 PM.
How many vacancies are available in UPSC CSE 2026?
There are approximately 933 vacancies across Group A and Group B Civil Services, including IAS, IPS, and IFS.
What is the minimum qualification for UPSC Civil Services?
Candidates must hold a Graduate degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
What is the age limit for UPSC CSE 2026?
The age limit is 21 to 32 years as on 01 August 2026, with standard category-wise relaxation applicable.
What is the application fee for UPSC Civil Services Exam?
General/OBC/EWS candidates must pay Rs. 100. SC/ST/PwBD/Women candidates are exempted from the fee.
When will the UPSC CSE 2026 Preliminary Exam be held?
The Preliminary Examination is currently scheduled for 24 May 2026.
