UPSC CSE 2026: 933 Prestigious Government Job Opportunities

Overview

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) invites you to India’s most sought-after examination – the Civil Services Examination 2026. With approximately 933 vacancies across prestigious All-India Services and Central Government positions, this is your chance to serve the nation and build a rewarding career. Whether you dream of becoming an IAS officer, IPS officer, or IFS officer, UPSC CSE is your gateway to success. Candidates from any educational background (Graduate degree) can apply and compete for these coveted positions.

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🏢 Organization Details

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💼 Position Summary

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📍 Services and Vacancies Breakdown

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📅 Important Dates to Mark Your Calendar

Pro Tip: The 20-day application window is short! Apply as early as possible to avoid website traffic issues on the last day.

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🎓 Educational Qualifications Required

You need to possess a Graduate Degree from any recognized university. The beauty of UPSC CSE is that there’s no restriction on your subject or stream. Whether you studied Engineering, Arts, Science, Commerce, Law, or Medicine – you’re eligible!

Eligible Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree (B.Tech, B.Sc, B.Com, BA, B.Ed, LLB, BDS, MBBS, etc.)
• Master’s Degree (M.Tech, M.Sc, M.Com, MA, MBA, M.Ed, etc.)
• Professional Degrees (MBBS, BDS, B.Arch, etc.)

Important Note: If you’re in your final year of graduation, you can still apply. However, you must submit proof of passing graduation before the interview stage.

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💰 Application Fee

Payment Method: Online via SBI net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI.

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⏳ Age Limit

Age Cutoff Date: 01 August 2026

Important: Age will be calculated as on the cutoff date. If you’re 32 years on 01 August 2026 (for general category), you’re eligible!

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🎯 Selection Process: How You’ll Be Evaluated

UPSC CSE is a three-stage rigorous selection process designed to identify the best administrators for India:

Stage 1: Preliminary Examination (Screening Test)

Date: 24 May 2026

This is your first hurdle. The Prelims is an objective-type test to screen out candidates for the Main Examination.

Key Features:

• Both papers consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
• Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying in nature – You need minimum 33% marks to qualify
• Negative Marking: 1/3rd mark deducted for each wrong answer
• Leaving a question blank carries no penalty
• Prelims marks are NOT counted in your final merit ranking – they’re only for qualification

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Stage 2: Main Examination (Written Test)

Tentative Date: August-September 2026

The Main Exam is where your in-depth knowledge is tested. This is a comprehensive written examination:

Total Written Exam Marks: 1,750

Important Points:

• Papers A & B (Languages) are qualifying only – minimum 25% marks required
• You must qualify in both language papers for your merit papers to be evaluated
• 7 merit papers decide your ranking
• Optional Subject: You can choose any one subject from the UPSC list (there are 23 optional subjects including History, Geography, Physics, Chemistry, Law, Engineering, Public Administration, etc.)

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Stage 3: Interview / Personality Test

Tentative Date: December 2026 – January 2027

Marks: 275

The interview is a crucial stage where UPSC assesses your personality, communication skills, and suitability for civil service.

What They Evaluate:

• Your knowledge and understanding
• Communication skills and clarity of thought
• Personality and temperament
• Suitability for public service
• Logical reasoning and decision-making ability

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Final Merit Calculation

Your final rank will be determined solely on Main Exam marks + Interview marks. Prelims marks are only for qualification, not for final ranking!

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📑 How to Apply Online

Applying for UPSC CSE 2026 is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to https://upsconline.nic.in (the official UPSC online application portal)

Step 2: Register (One-Time Registration)

• Click on “Register” if you’re a new user
• Enter your email ID and mobile number
• Create a password
• Complete the registration process
• You’ll receive a Unique Registration Number (URN)

Step 3: Login

• Login using your email ID and password
• Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number

Step 4: Fill the Application Form

• Click on “Apply for Civil Services Examination 2026”
• Fill all mandatory fields:
  • Personal details (name, DOB, address)
  • Educational qualifications
  • State of domicile
  • Preferred optional subject(s)
  • Mark all the information carefully – errors can lead to rejection

Step 5: Upload Documents

• Photograph: JPG format, size 3.5 cm × 4.25 cm, file size 50-200 KB
• Signature: JPG format, size should be clear, file size 20-50 KB

Step 6: Review & Verify

• Carefully review all entered information
• Check for spelling mistakes and errors
• Ensure all details match your original documents

Step 7: Pay Application Fee

• Pay Rs. 100 (if applicable to your category)
• Payment options: Net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI
• Keep the transaction receipt

Step 8: Submit Application

• Click on “Submit” button
• Your application will be successfully submitted
• Save or note your application number – you’ll need it for all future correspondence

Step 9: Print Confirmation

• Print the application confirmation
• Keep it safe for your records

Important Guidelines:

• Use the same mobile number and email throughout the process – all notifications will be sent here
• Keep your mobile number and email active until the entire recruitment process is complete
• Don’t share your application number or credentials with anyone
• Apply from a reliable internet connection to avoid technical issues

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⚙️ Key Documents Required

Documents to Upload During Application:

• Passport-sized photograph (JPG, 50-200 KB)
• Signature (JPG, 20-50 KB)

Documents to Bring for Preliminary Exam:

• Original admission card (download from the portal)
• Valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Driving License)
• Any original document for identity verification

Documents Required for Main Exam & Interview:

• Admit card
• Original educational certificates and mark sheets (10th, 12th, Graduation, Post-Graduation)
• Certificates of any additional qualifications
• Caste certificate (if claiming SC/ST/OBC category) in prescribed format
• EWS certificate (if claiming EWS benefit) – must be in DoPT format available on www.persmin.nic.in
• PWD certificate (if applicable)
• Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport)
• Address proof (utility bill, rental agreement)
• Character certificate from a gazetted officer
• Medical certificate (if PWD)

Important Note:

• All documents must be original
• Keep attested copies of all important documents
• Any discrepancy between application and documents will lead to disqualification

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📘 Important Links for Quick Access

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the last date to apply for UPSC CSE 2026? A: The last date is 24 February 2026 at 6:00 PM IST. No applications will be accepted after this time.

Q2: How many vacancies are available? A: Approximately 933 vacancies across IAS, IPS, IFS, and other central services.

Q3: What qualifications do I need? A: You need a graduate degree from any recognized university in any subject. There’s no stream restriction.

Q4: What is the age limit? A: 21-32 years for general candidates (as on 01 August 2026). SC/ST candidates get 5 years relaxation; OBC get 3 years.

Q5: Can I apply if I’m in my final year of college? A: Yes, you can apply, but you must complete your graduation before the interview stage.

Q6: What is the application fee? A: Rs. 100 for general, OBC, and EWS candidates. SC/ST, PWD, and women candidates are exempt.

Q7: When will the Preliminary Exam be held? A: On 24 May 2026.

Q8: How many attempts are allowed? A: General/EWS candidates get 6 attempts, OBC candidates get 9 attempts, and SC/ST candidates get unlimited attempts (until age 37).

Q9: What is the selection process? A: Three stages – Preliminary Exam (objective), Main Exam (written), and Interview (personality test).

Q10: Are Preliminary Exam marks counted in the final merit list? A: No, Prelims marks are only for qualification. Final ranking is based on Main Exam + Interview marks.

Q11: Can I choose my optional subject after applying? A: You must choose your optional subject while filling the application. It cannot be changed later.

Q12: What happens if I fail to qualify in one language paper? A: If you don’t get the minimum 25% in either language paper, your merit papers won’t be evaluated and you won’t be ranked.

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🚀 Key Takeaways

✅ 933 positions across prestigious All-India and Central Services
✅ No application fee for SC/ST, PWD, and women candidates
✅ Any graduate can apply (no subject restriction)
✅ Multiple services to choose from (IAS, IPS, IFS, and more)
✅ Secure your nation’s future while building a prestigious career
✅ Quick application window – apply within 20 days

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💡 Expert Tips for Success

1. Prepare Early: The examination is comprehensive. Start your preparation soon after the notification.
2. Choose Your Optional Wisely: Your optional subject can make or break your rank. Choose a subject you have strong interest in and good study material for.
3. Balance Your Preparation: Don’t neglect any subject. GS papers cover a wide range of topics.
4. Take Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mock exams to understand the exam pattern and improve time management.
5. Stay Updated: Read current affairs regularly. One-third of GS questions are based on current events.
6. Write Well: In Main Exam, presentation and writing quality matter. Practice essay writing and answer writing.
7. Interview Preparation: Don’t neglect interview preparation. Develop your communication skills and general awareness.
8. Health & Discipline: UPSC CSE is a marathon, not a sprint. Maintain good health and follow a disciplined study schedule.
9. Verify Before Submission: Double-check all information before clicking submit. Errors can lead to rejection.
10. Join Study Groups: Connect with other aspirants. Discussing concepts helps clarify doubts.

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📞 Need More Information?

Official UPSC Website: https://www.upsc.gov.in

The website has comprehensive information including:

• Complete notification and guidelines
• Detailed syllabus for each paper
• Previous year question papers
• Exam pattern and marking scheme
• Optional subject information
• FAQs and help section

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Last Updated: 14 February 2026