UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026
Domain: Civil Services
Employment Type: Full time
Stage: Application - Detailed Notification
Posted: 8 months ago
Posts: 933
Location: CENTRAL
Closed: 24 Feb 2026
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Job Details
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 is one of the most prestigious examinations in India. It selects candidates for elite government positions, including roles in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS). The exam is conducted in three stages: Preliminary, Main, and Personality Test (Interview), and it tests candidates on a wide range of topics, including general knowledge, aptitude, and specialized subjects.
- Level:
- central
- Cities:
- Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Patna, Jaipur, Ahmedabad
- Other Information:
- Service Allocation: Candidates may be posted in any state or union territory of India as per the cadre allocation policy.
- Exam Centers:
- Preliminary Examination Centres: Agartala, Agra, Ahmedabad, Aizawl, Ajmer, Aligarh, Almora (Uttarakhand), Ananthapuramu (Andhra Pradesh), Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar [Aurangabad (Maharashtra)], Bareilly, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh), Chandigarh, Chennai, Coimbatore, Cuttack, Dehradun, Delhi, Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh), Dharwar, Dispur, Faridabad, Gangtok, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Gaya, Ghaziabad, Gorakhpur, Gurugram, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Imphal, Indore, Itanagar, Jabalpur, Jaipur, Jammu, Jodhpur, Jorhat, Kanpur, Kargil, Kochi, Kohima, Kolkata, Kozhikode (Calicut), Leh, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Madurai, Mandi (Himachal Pradesh), Meerut, Mumbai, Mysuru, Nagpur, Nasik, Navi Mumbai, Panaji (Goa), Patna, Sri Vijaya Puram (Portblair), Prayagraj (Allahabad), Puducherry, Pune, Raipur, Rajkot, Ranchi, Sambalpur, Shillong, Shimla, Siliguri, Srinagar, Srinagar (Uttarakhand), Surat, Thane, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Tirupati, Udaipur, Varanasi, Vellore, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Hanumakonda (Warangal Urban).
- Main Examination Centres: Ahmedabad, Aizawl, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Cuttack, Dehradun, Delhi, Dispur (Guwahati), Hyderabad, Imphal, Jaipur, Jammu, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Patna, Prayagraj (Allahabad), Raipur, Ranchi, Shillong, Shimla, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada.
Job Summary
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 is an opportunity for graduates to enter prestigious civil services of India. The examination process involves three stages, and candidates must prepare thoroughly to succeed. Applications are open from February 4 to February 24, 2026.
Important Dates
Notification Date
Last date to apply · Application window
Examination · Preliminary Examination
Dates not announced
- Admit card availability
Fee Structure
Application Fee
- 1. Preliminary Examination fee:
- Rs. 100/- (Rupees One Hundred only). Women/SC/ST/PwBD candidates are exempted.
- 2. Main Examination fee:
- Candidates admitted to the Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2026 will be required to pay Rs. 200/- (Except SC/ST/PwBD/Women).
Payment Methods
- 1. Modes:
- Net Banking of any bank, Visa/Master/RuPay Credit/Debit Card, UPI.
Other Information
- 1. Non-refundable:
- Fee once paid shall not be refunded nor held in reserve for any other examination.
Eligibility Criteria
1. Educational Qualifications
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| A Graduate degree from a recognised University (as per CSE Rules, 2026). | Required |
2. Other Educational Qualifications
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Appearing candidates | Candidates who have appeared at a qualifying examination the passing of which would render them educationally qualified are eligible; proof of passing must be produced within the time limit prescribed (Rule 13 of CSE-2026). |
| Professional degrees | Candidates with professional/technical qualifications recognised as equivalent are eligible; MBBS/BDS/Veterinary etc. must produce proof of completion of internship at interview. |
3. Experience Requirements
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Experience Range | N/A - N/A years |
4. Age Limit
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 21 - 32 years |
| General upper age limit | Must not have attained 32 years on the 1st of August, 2026 (born not earlier than 2nd August, 1994 and not later than 1st August, 2005). |
| Relaxations | SC/ST: up to 5 years; OBC: up to 3 years; Defence Services disabled: up to 3 years; Ex-Servicemen/ECOs/SSCOs: up to 5 years (subject to conditions); PwBD: up to 10 years (as per categories). |
5. Citizenship
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| IAS/IFS/IPS | Must be a citizen of India. |
| Other services | Citizen of India, or subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugee (came before 1 Jan 1962), or PIO from specified countries with intention of permanently settling in India, subject to eligibility certificate from Government of India. |
6. Physical Requirements
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical & Physical Standards | Candidates must be physically fit as per guidelines in Appendix-III of the Rules (Gazette of India Extraordinary dated 04th February, 2026). |
7. Other Eligibility
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of attempts | General: 6; OBC: 9; SC/ST: Unlimited; PwBD: 9 for GL/EWS/OBC and Unlimited for SC/ST (subject to Rule 12). |
| Restrictions on applying | Persons appointed to IAS or IFS based on earlier exams are not eligible as per Rule 3(V); special provisions apply for IPS/Central Services regarding training exemption and subsequent attempts. |
| Photo ID | Details of one Photo ID (Aadhaar/EPIC/PAN/Passport/Driving Licence/other Govt. ID) must be provided in URN Profile and carried to Examination/Interview. |
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Post Details
Total Posts: 933
1. All Services/Posts participating in CSE-2026 (as per Rules)
Additional Information
- Vacancy note: The number of vacancies to be filled is expected to be approximately 933 including 33 vacancies reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disability; final numbers may change after firm intimation from Cadre Controlling Authorities.
Salary Details
> Salary Range: ₹56,100 - ₹1,77,500 Monthly
> Gross Salary: ₹1,25,000 Monthly
> Grade Pay: ₹5400
> Allowances: House Rent Allowance, Dearness Allowance, Travel Allowance
Other Information
- Annual Increment: Increment based on performance and years of service, in accordance with government pay scales.
Cut Off Marks
- 1. Preliminary Examination:
- Cut-off marks for the preliminary examination will be released after the results are declared.
- 2. Main Examination:
- Cut-off marks for the Main examination will be determined based on performance and announced accordingly.
How to Apply
- 1. Portal & modules:
- Register and apply on https://upsconline.nic.in using Universal Registration Number (URN), Common Application Form (CAF) and Examination Specific module.
- 2. Live photo & signatures:
- Upload a photograph and capture live photograph; upload signatures (three times on white paper in black ink) as per 'Instructions and FAQs' on the portal.
- 3. Final submission:
- No withdrawal or correction/alteration/modification is allowed after submission.
- 4. Scribe change request:
- Candidates who opted to use a scribe may request change of scribe up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the examination via the portal.
- 5. Mains choices at application:
- Centres for Main Examination, Optional subject, language medium and compulsory Indian language must be indicated at application; no changes will be entertained after submission.
Exam Pattern
- 1. Preliminary Examination:
- Two objective type papers of 200 marks each; General Studies Paper-II (CSAT) is qualifying with 33% marks; negative marking 0.33.
- 2. Main Examination:
- 9 papers of conventional (essay) type—2 qualifying language papers (300 marks each) and 7 papers counted for merit (Essay, GS I–IV, Optional Paper I & II), total written 1750 marks.
- 3. Personality Test:
- Interview/Personality Test carries 275 marks; no minimum qualifying marks.
- 4. Total marks:
- Grand total 2025 (Mains written 1750 + Personality Test 275).
- 5. Tie-breaking:
- Multi-step tie-break rules as per Section II, 4.3 of the notice.
- 6. Penalty for wrong answers:
- Negative marking for wrong answers in objective type papers.
Syllabus Details
- 1. Prelims GS Paper-I:
- Current events; History of India; Geography; Polity and Governance; Economic and Social Development; Environment & Ecology; General Science.
- 2. Prelims CSAT (GS Paper-II):
- Comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning & analytical ability, decision making & problem solving, general mental ability, basic numeracy and data interpretation (Class X level).
- 3. Mains Papers:
- Essay; GS-I (Heritage & Culture, History & Geography of the World & Society); GS-II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & IR); GS-III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security & DM); GS-IV (Ethics); Optional Subject Papers I & II.
- 4. Language papers:
- Paper-A (Indian Language from Eighth Schedule) and Paper-B (English) are qualifying; exemptions as per Rules.
Selection Process
- 1. Stages:
- Preliminary Examination (screening), Main Examination (written), and Personality Test (Interview).
- 2. DAF windows:
- 10 days’ window after Prelim result for Mains Application; 15 days’ window after written part of Mains for Personality Test related updates and document uploads.
- 3. Question paper representation:
- QPRep portal open for 5 days from the 3rd day after exam date up to 6:00 PM of the 7th day.
Admit Card Details
- 1. Availability:
- e-Admit Card issued on the last working day of the preceding week of the date of examination; for candidates who opted change of scribe, 3 days prior to exam.
- 2. Download:
- Download from https://upsconline.nic.in; no Admit Card by post/email. Verify details and contact helpdesk if not received.
Reservation Details
- 1. PwBD vacancies:
- 33 PwBD vacancies (7 for blindness & low vision; 11 for deaf & hard of hearing; 8 for locomotor disability including CP, LC, Dw, AAV, MDy; 7 for multiple disabilities excluding blind & deaf (B+D)).
- 2. PwBD suitability:
- Only those PwBD categories mentioned in the notice are eligible; suitable categories and functional requirements are in Appendix-IV of the Rules.
- 3. OBC certificate:
- OBC (NCL) certificate must be based on income for FY 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 and issued on/after 01.04.2025 but not later than 24th February, 2026.
- 4. EWS certificate:
- EWS Income & Asset Certificate must be based on income for FY 2024-25 and issued on/after 01.04.2025 but not later than 24th February, 2026.
- 5. Category change:
- No request for change of category after submission; reserved candidates not qualifying on General standard cannot later claim Unreserved vacancies; PwBD sub-category change is not permitted.
- 6. Determination date:
- Closing date of application (24.02.2026) will be treated as the date for determining OBC status including creamy layer.
Document Requirements
- 1. Photo ID:
- Provide details of one valid Government Photo ID in URN Profile and carry the same to exam/interview.
- 2. Certificates:
- Upload/produce documents supporting DOB, educational qualification, category (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD) as per formats and timelines in the notice.
- 3. PwBD:
- PwBD candidates claiming fee exemption must upload a certified copy of Certificate of Disability from a Government Hospital/Medical Board.
Preparation Tips
- 1. Preparation Strategy:
- Candidates should focus on understanding the syllabus, practicing previous years' question papers, and taking regular mock tests to evaluate their preparation levels.
- 2. Time Management:
- Effective time management is crucial. Candidates should allocate adequate time to each subject and balance between optional and general studies.
- 3. Stay Updated:
- Regularly reading newspapers and current affairs is essential, as a significant portion of the exam is based on current events.
- 4. Mock Tests:
- Practicing with mock tests improves speed and accuracy, helping candidates become familiar with the exam pattern and identify weak areas.
Important Instructions
- 1. Mobile phones banned:
- Mobile phones, smart/digital watches and electronic devices are strictly prohibited at the exam venue; no safe-keeping arrangements.
- 2. Reporting time:
- Reach the venue well in time; no late entry; face authentication/identity verification and frisking are mandatory.
- 3. Negative marking:
- There will be penalty (negative marking) for wrong answers in objective type papers.
- 4. Representations:
- Representations on Question Papers/Answer Key via QPRep only within the specified window; no email/post representations accepted.
Interview Details
- 1. Assessment focus:
- Personality Test assesses mental calibre, social traits, and interest in current affairs; marks: 275.
Training Details
- 1. Training Period:
- Selected candidates undergo a two-year training program at designated academies, including the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration for IAS officers.
- 2. Training Content:
- Training includes foundational courses in administration, law, economics, and leadership skills, preparing candidates for their responsibilities in civil services.
- 3. Field Training:
- Candidates also participate in field training exercises to gain practical experience in administrative tasks and public interaction.
- 4. Evaluation:
- Trainees are evaluated periodically on their performance, including assessments of leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability.
Bond or Service Agreement
- 1. Service Bond:
- Selected candidates may be required to sign a service bond committing to a minimum tenure in the civil services.
- 2. Bond Amount:
- The bond amount varies depending on the service and is meant to cover training costs in case the candidate exits prematurely.
- 3. Minimum Service Duration:
- The bond typically requires a minimum service duration of 5 years from the date of joining.
- 4. Bond Terms:
- The bond terms are binding, and breaking the bond prematurely may lead to financial penalties as outlined in the service agreement.
Disqualification Criteria
- 1. Misconduct:
- Acts like impersonation, use/possession of electronic devices, submitting fabricated documents, unfair means, misbehaviour, or violation of instructions may lead to disqualification/debarment and criminal prosecution (Rule 19).
Probation Period
- 1. Probation Terms:
- The probation period for selected candidates is two years, during which performance and conduct are closely monitored.
- 2. Probation Review:
- Candidates’ performance is evaluated periodically, and successful completion of probation is mandatory for confirmation in service.
- 3. Termination of Service:
- Failure to meet performance standards or misconduct during the probation period may lead to termination from the service.
- 4. Permanent Appointment:
- After satisfactory completion of the probation period, candidates are confirmed in their respective services and granted permanent appointment status.
Other Information
- 1. Face Authentication:
- All candidates will undergo face authentication at the examination venue.
- 2. Centres allocation:
- Allotment of Centres is on first-apply-first-allot basis with ceilings (except Chennai, Dispur, Kolkata and Nagpur); PwBD can opt desired centre.
Important Links
- 3. UPSC Website
Contact Details
Email: upscsoap@nic.in
Phone: 011-24041001
Address: UPSC Facilitation Counter, Dholpur House, Shahjahan Road, New Delhi - 110069
Other Information
Helpdesk hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM on working days during 04.02.2026 to 24.02.2026.
General Enquiry (existing): 011-23385271 (UPSC Facilitation Counter).
FAQ
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UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026
Domain: Civil Services
Employment Type: Full time
Stage: Application - Detailed Notification
Posted: 8 months ago
Posts: 933
Location: CENTRAL
Closed: 24 Feb 2026
My Bharat Jobs - Govt Alert App
Get real-time alerts for Sarkari jobs across India — fast, free, and without ads.
Job Details
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 is one of the most prestigious examinations in India. It selects candidates for elite government positions, including roles in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS). The exam is conducted in three stages: Preliminary, Main, and Personality Test (Interview), and it tests candidates on a wide range of topics, including general knowledge, aptitude, and specialized subjects.
- Level:
- central
- Cities:
- Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Patna, Jaipur, Ahmedabad
- Other Information:
- Service Allocation: Candidates may be posted in any state or union territory of India as per the cadre allocation policy.
- Exam Centers:
- Preliminary Examination Centres: Agartala, Agra, Ahmedabad, Aizawl, Ajmer, Aligarh, Almora (Uttarakhand), Ananthapuramu (Andhra Pradesh), Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar [Aurangabad (Maharashtra)], Bareilly, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh), Chandigarh, Chennai, Coimbatore, Cuttack, Dehradun, Delhi, Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh), Dharwar, Dispur, Faridabad, Gangtok, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Gaya, Ghaziabad, Gorakhpur, Gurugram, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Imphal, Indore, Itanagar, Jabalpur, Jaipur, Jammu, Jodhpur, Jorhat, Kanpur, Kargil, Kochi, Kohima, Kolkata, Kozhikode (Calicut), Leh, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Madurai, Mandi (Himachal Pradesh), Meerut, Mumbai, Mysuru, Nagpur, Nasik, Navi Mumbai, Panaji (Goa), Patna, Sri Vijaya Puram (Portblair), Prayagraj (Allahabad), Puducherry, Pune, Raipur, Rajkot, Ranchi, Sambalpur, Shillong, Shimla, Siliguri, Srinagar, Srinagar (Uttarakhand), Surat, Thane, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Tirupati, Udaipur, Varanasi, Vellore, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Hanumakonda (Warangal Urban).
- Main Examination Centres: Ahmedabad, Aizawl, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Cuttack, Dehradun, Delhi, Dispur (Guwahati), Hyderabad, Imphal, Jaipur, Jammu, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Patna, Prayagraj (Allahabad), Raipur, Ranchi, Shillong, Shimla, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada.
Job Summary
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 is an opportunity for graduates to enter prestigious civil services of India. The examination process involves three stages, and candidates must prepare thoroughly to succeed. Applications are open from February 4 to February 24, 2026.
Important Dates
Notification Date
Last date to apply · Application window
Examination · Preliminary Examination
Dates not announced
- Admit card availability
Fee Structure
Application Fee
- 1. Preliminary Examination fee:
- Rs. 100/- (Rupees One Hundred only). Women/SC/ST/PwBD candidates are exempted.
- 2. Main Examination fee:
- Candidates admitted to the Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2026 will be required to pay Rs. 200/- (Except SC/ST/PwBD/Women).
Payment Methods
- 1. Modes:
- Net Banking of any bank, Visa/Master/RuPay Credit/Debit Card, UPI.
Other Information
- 1. Non-refundable:
- Fee once paid shall not be refunded nor held in reserve for any other examination.
Eligibility Criteria
1. Educational Qualifications
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| A Graduate degree from a recognised University (as per CSE Rules, 2026). | Required |
2. Other Educational Qualifications
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Appearing candidates | Candidates who have appeared at a qualifying examination the passing of which would render them educationally qualified are eligible; proof of passing must be produced within the time limit prescribed (Rule 13 of CSE-2026). |
| Professional degrees | Candidates with professional/technical qualifications recognised as equivalent are eligible; MBBS/BDS/Veterinary etc. must produce proof of completion of internship at interview. |
3. Experience Requirements
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Experience Range | N/A - N/A years |
4. Age Limit
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 21 - 32 years |
| General upper age limit | Must not have attained 32 years on the 1st of August, 2026 (born not earlier than 2nd August, 1994 and not later than 1st August, 2005). |
| Relaxations | SC/ST: up to 5 years; OBC: up to 3 years; Defence Services disabled: up to 3 years; Ex-Servicemen/ECOs/SSCOs: up to 5 years (subject to conditions); PwBD: up to 10 years (as per categories). |
5. Citizenship
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| IAS/IFS/IPS | Must be a citizen of India. |
| Other services | Citizen of India, or subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugee (came before 1 Jan 1962), or PIO from specified countries with intention of permanently settling in India, subject to eligibility certificate from Government of India. |
6. Physical Requirements
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical & Physical Standards | Candidates must be physically fit as per guidelines in Appendix-III of the Rules (Gazette of India Extraordinary dated 04th February, 2026). |
7. Other Eligibility
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of attempts | General: 6; OBC: 9; SC/ST: Unlimited; PwBD: 9 for GL/EWS/OBC and Unlimited for SC/ST (subject to Rule 12). |
| Restrictions on applying | Persons appointed to IAS or IFS based on earlier exams are not eligible as per Rule 3(V); special provisions apply for IPS/Central Services regarding training exemption and subsequent attempts. |
| Photo ID | Details of one Photo ID (Aadhaar/EPIC/PAN/Passport/Driving Licence/other Govt. ID) must be provided in URN Profile and carried to Examination/Interview. |
🎯 One App for All Govt Jobs. Zero Ads.
Track jobs by state, department, or stage. Get real-time alerts and save your favorites — without any login or distractions.
- ✅ Real-time verified alerts
- 📍 Smart filters for state & department
- 🔔 Personalized notifications
Post Details
Total Posts: 933
1. All Services/Posts participating in CSE-2026 (as per Rules)
Additional Information
- Vacancy note: The number of vacancies to be filled is expected to be approximately 933 including 33 vacancies reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disability; final numbers may change after firm intimation from Cadre Controlling Authorities.
Salary Details
> Salary Range: ₹56,100 - ₹1,77,500 Monthly
> Gross Salary: ₹1,25,000 Monthly
> Grade Pay: ₹5400
> Allowances: House Rent Allowance, Dearness Allowance, Travel Allowance
Other Information
- Annual Increment: Increment based on performance and years of service, in accordance with government pay scales.
Cut Off Marks
- 1. Preliminary Examination:
- Cut-off marks for the preliminary examination will be released after the results are declared.
- 2. Main Examination:
- Cut-off marks for the Main examination will be determined based on performance and announced accordingly.
How to Apply
- 1. Portal & modules:
- Register and apply on https://upsconline.nic.in using Universal Registration Number (URN), Common Application Form (CAF) and Examination Specific module.
- 2. Live photo & signatures:
- Upload a photograph and capture live photograph; upload signatures (three times on white paper in black ink) as per 'Instructions and FAQs' on the portal.
- 3. Final submission:
- No withdrawal or correction/alteration/modification is allowed after submission.
- 4. Scribe change request:
- Candidates who opted to use a scribe may request change of scribe up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the examination via the portal.
- 5. Mains choices at application:
- Centres for Main Examination, Optional subject, language medium and compulsory Indian language must be indicated at application; no changes will be entertained after submission.
Exam Pattern
- 1. Preliminary Examination:
- Two objective type papers of 200 marks each; General Studies Paper-II (CSAT) is qualifying with 33% marks; negative marking 0.33.
- 2. Main Examination:
- 9 papers of conventional (essay) type—2 qualifying language papers (300 marks each) and 7 papers counted for merit (Essay, GS I–IV, Optional Paper I & II), total written 1750 marks.
- 3. Personality Test:
- Interview/Personality Test carries 275 marks; no minimum qualifying marks.
- 4. Total marks:
- Grand total 2025 (Mains written 1750 + Personality Test 275).
- 5. Tie-breaking:
- Multi-step tie-break rules as per Section II, 4.3 of the notice.
- 6. Penalty for wrong answers:
- Negative marking for wrong answers in objective type papers.
Syllabus Details
- 1. Prelims GS Paper-I:
- Current events; History of India; Geography; Polity and Governance; Economic and Social Development; Environment & Ecology; General Science.
- 2. Prelims CSAT (GS Paper-II):
- Comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning & analytical ability, decision making & problem solving, general mental ability, basic numeracy and data interpretation (Class X level).
- 3. Mains Papers:
- Essay; GS-I (Heritage & Culture, History & Geography of the World & Society); GS-II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & IR); GS-III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security & DM); GS-IV (Ethics); Optional Subject Papers I & II.
- 4. Language papers:
- Paper-A (Indian Language from Eighth Schedule) and Paper-B (English) are qualifying; exemptions as per Rules.
Selection Process
- 1. Stages:
- Preliminary Examination (screening), Main Examination (written), and Personality Test (Interview).
- 2. DAF windows:
- 10 days’ window after Prelim result for Mains Application; 15 days’ window after written part of Mains for Personality Test related updates and document uploads.
- 3. Question paper representation:
- QPRep portal open for 5 days from the 3rd day after exam date up to 6:00 PM of the 7th day.
Admit Card Details
- 1. Availability:
- e-Admit Card issued on the last working day of the preceding week of the date of examination; for candidates who opted change of scribe, 3 days prior to exam.
- 2. Download:
- Download from https://upsconline.nic.in; no Admit Card by post/email. Verify details and contact helpdesk if not received.
Reservation Details
- 1. PwBD vacancies:
- 33 PwBD vacancies (7 for blindness & low vision; 11 for deaf & hard of hearing; 8 for locomotor disability including CP, LC, Dw, AAV, MDy; 7 for multiple disabilities excluding blind & deaf (B+D)).
- 2. PwBD suitability:
- Only those PwBD categories mentioned in the notice are eligible; suitable categories and functional requirements are in Appendix-IV of the Rules.
- 3. OBC certificate:
- OBC (NCL) certificate must be based on income for FY 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 and issued on/after 01.04.2025 but not later than 24th February, 2026.
- 4. EWS certificate:
- EWS Income & Asset Certificate must be based on income for FY 2024-25 and issued on/after 01.04.2025 but not later than 24th February, 2026.
- 5. Category change:
- No request for change of category after submission; reserved candidates not qualifying on General standard cannot later claim Unreserved vacancies; PwBD sub-category change is not permitted.
- 6. Determination date:
- Closing date of application (24.02.2026) will be treated as the date for determining OBC status including creamy layer.
Document Requirements
- 1. Photo ID:
- Provide details of one valid Government Photo ID in URN Profile and carry the same to exam/interview.
- 2. Certificates:
- Upload/produce documents supporting DOB, educational qualification, category (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD) as per formats and timelines in the notice.
- 3. PwBD:
- PwBD candidates claiming fee exemption must upload a certified copy of Certificate of Disability from a Government Hospital/Medical Board.
Preparation Tips
- 1. Preparation Strategy:
- Candidates should focus on understanding the syllabus, practicing previous years' question papers, and taking regular mock tests to evaluate their preparation levels.
- 2. Time Management:
- Effective time management is crucial. Candidates should allocate adequate time to each subject and balance between optional and general studies.
- 3. Stay Updated:
- Regularly reading newspapers and current affairs is essential, as a significant portion of the exam is based on current events.
- 4. Mock Tests:
- Practicing with mock tests improves speed and accuracy, helping candidates become familiar with the exam pattern and identify weak areas.
Important Instructions
- 1. Mobile phones banned:
- Mobile phones, smart/digital watches and electronic devices are strictly prohibited at the exam venue; no safe-keeping arrangements.
- 2. Reporting time:
- Reach the venue well in time; no late entry; face authentication/identity verification and frisking are mandatory.
- 3. Negative marking:
- There will be penalty (negative marking) for wrong answers in objective type papers.
- 4. Representations:
- Representations on Question Papers/Answer Key via QPRep only within the specified window; no email/post representations accepted.
Interview Details
- 1. Assessment focus:
- Personality Test assesses mental calibre, social traits, and interest in current affairs; marks: 275.
Training Details
- 1. Training Period:
- Selected candidates undergo a two-year training program at designated academies, including the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration for IAS officers.
- 2. Training Content:
- Training includes foundational courses in administration, law, economics, and leadership skills, preparing candidates for their responsibilities in civil services.
- 3. Field Training:
- Candidates also participate in field training exercises to gain practical experience in administrative tasks and public interaction.
- 4. Evaluation:
- Trainees are evaluated periodically on their performance, including assessments of leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability.
Bond or Service Agreement
- 1. Service Bond:
- Selected candidates may be required to sign a service bond committing to a minimum tenure in the civil services.
- 2. Bond Amount:
- The bond amount varies depending on the service and is meant to cover training costs in case the candidate exits prematurely.
- 3. Minimum Service Duration:
- The bond typically requires a minimum service duration of 5 years from the date of joining.
- 4. Bond Terms:
- The bond terms are binding, and breaking the bond prematurely may lead to financial penalties as outlined in the service agreement.
Disqualification Criteria
- 1. Misconduct:
- Acts like impersonation, use/possession of electronic devices, submitting fabricated documents, unfair means, misbehaviour, or violation of instructions may lead to disqualification/debarment and criminal prosecution (Rule 19).
Probation Period
- 1. Probation Terms:
- The probation period for selected candidates is two years, during which performance and conduct are closely monitored.
- 2. Probation Review:
- Candidates’ performance is evaluated periodically, and successful completion of probation is mandatory for confirmation in service.
- 3. Termination of Service:
- Failure to meet performance standards or misconduct during the probation period may lead to termination from the service.
- 4. Permanent Appointment:
- After satisfactory completion of the probation period, candidates are confirmed in their respective services and granted permanent appointment status.
Other Information
- 1. Face Authentication:
- All candidates will undergo face authentication at the examination venue.
- 2. Centres allocation:
- Allotment of Centres is on first-apply-first-allot basis with ceilings (except Chennai, Dispur, Kolkata and Nagpur); PwBD can opt desired centre.
Important Links
- 3. UPSC Website
Contact Details
Email: upscsoap@nic.in
Phone: 011-24041001
Address: UPSC Facilitation Counter, Dholpur House, Shahjahan Road, New Delhi - 110069
Other Information
Helpdesk hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM on working days during 04.02.2026 to 24.02.2026.
General Enquiry (existing): 011-23385271 (UPSC Facilitation Counter).
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