UPSC CSE 2026 Notification Out – Apply Online for 933 Civil Services Examination Vacancies
The Union Public Service Commission has officially unveiled the much-awaited Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 notification. Conducted by :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} (UPSC), this examination opens the gateway to India’s most prestigious careers including IAS, IPS, IFS and several other Central Group A & Group B services.
For aspirants dreaming of administrative leadership and nation-building, UPSC CSE 2026 brings approximately 933 vacancies. Eligible graduate candidates can apply online from 04 February 2026 to 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM).
Clearing the Civil Services Examination is not just about securing a job—it’s about earning the privilege to serve the nation at the highest administrative, diplomatic, and law-enforcement levels.
UPSC Recruitment 2026 – Civil Services Examination Overview
| Organization Name | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 |
| Post Type | Group A & Group B Services |
| Total Vacancies | Approximately 933 Posts |
| Services Covered | IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, Indian Audit & Accounts, DANICS, DANIPS & others |
| Qualification | Graduate Degree (Any Discipline) |
| Age Limit | 21 – 32 Years (as on 01-08-2026) |
| Selection Stages | Preliminary, Main & Interview |
| Apply Mode | Online |
| Official Website | www.upsc.gov.in |
UPSC CSE 2026 Vacancy Details
| Service Category | Post Type | Expected Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| All India Services | IAS / IPS / IFS | Included in Total |
| Central Services Group A | IRS, Railway Management, Defence Accounts, Postal Service etc. | Included in Total |
| Central Services Group B | DANICS / DANIPS / AFHQ Civil Service / PONDICS | Included in Total |
| Total | All Services | 933 (Approx.) |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Candidates must possess a Graduate Degree from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification as prescribed by UPSC.
Age Limit (as on 01 August 2026)
- Minimum Age: 21 Years
- Maximum Age: 32 Years
- SC / ST: 5 Years Age Relaxation
- OBC: 3 Years Age Relaxation
- PwBD: Up to 10 Years Age Relaxation
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100/- |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Women | Nil |
Selection Process
- Civil Services Preliminary Examination (Objective)
- Civil Services Main Examination (Written)
- Interview / Personality Test
- Document Verification
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 04 February 2026 |
| Apply Online Start | 04 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM) |
| Preliminary Exam Date | 24 May 2026 |
UPSC CSE 2026 – Preliminary Examination Pattern
The Preliminary Examination is the first screening stage. Marks scored here are used only for shortlisting candidates for the Main Examination and are not counted in the final merit list.
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Studies | 200 | 2 Hours |
| Paper II | CSAT | 200 | 2 Hours |
- Both papers are objective (MCQ) based.
- CSAT is qualifying with minimum 33% marks.
- Negative marking of 1/3rd applies.
UPSC CSE 2026 – Main Examination Pattern
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper A | Indian Language | 300 | Qualifying |
| Paper B | English | 300 | Qualifying |
| Paper I | Essay | 250 | Merit |
| Paper II | GS I | 250 | Merit |
| Paper III | GS II | 250 | Merit |
| Paper IV | GS III | 250 | Merit |
| Paper V | GS IV (Ethics) | 250 | Merit |
| Paper VI | Optional Paper 1 | 250 | Merit |
| Paper VII | Optional Paper 2 | 250 | Merit |
Interview / Personality Test
The final stage carries 275 marks. The combined score of Mains (1750) and Interview (275) decides the final merit out of 2025 marks.
How to Apply for UPSC CSE 2026
- Visit the official UPSC online portal
- Complete One-Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill the Civil Services Examination 2026 application form
- Upload photograph, signature & documents
- Pay the application fee (if applicable)
- Submit the form before 24 February 2026
Start Your UPSC 2026 Journey Today
Do not wait for the last date. Apply early and focus on your preparation with clarity and confidence.
Apply Online NowUPSC CSE 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (Q & A)
Q1. How many vacancies are announced for UPSC CSE 2026?
Around 933 vacancies are expected across All India and Central Civil Services.
Q2. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CSE 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM).
Q3. Is graduation mandatory for UPSC CSE?
Yes, candidates must hold a graduate degree from a recognized university.
Q4. Are Prelims marks counted in the final merit?
No, Prelims marks are only for qualification. Final merit is based on Mains and Interview.
Q5. Is there any fee exemption for women candidates?
Yes, women candidates are exempted from paying the application fee.
Q6. What is the age limit for UPSC CSE 2026?
The age limit is 21 to 32 years as on 01 August 2026, with relaxation for reserved categories.
