{"id":21894,"date":"2026-02-04T19:27:27","date_gmt":"2026-02-04T13:57:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/?p=21894"},"modified":"2026-02-04T19:27:32","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T13:57:32","slug":"upsc-cse-2026-notification","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/","title":{"rendered":"UPSC CSE 2026 Notification: 933 Vacancies, Dates, Eligibility, Apply Online, Dates, Eligibility, Exam Pattern &amp; How to Apply"},"content":{"rendered":"<body>\n<p><strong>Big update for UPSC aspirants.<\/strong> The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the <strong>Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 notification<\/strong>, announcing <strong>933 tentative vacancies<\/strong> across India\u2019s top administrative services, including IAS, IPS and IFS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The online application process for UPSC CSE 2026 has started from <strong>February 4, 2026<\/strong>, and eligible candidates can submit their forms till <strong>February 24, 2026 (6:00 PM)<\/strong> through the official website <strong>upsc.gov.in<\/strong>. This recruitment drive is one of the biggest opportunities for graduates aspiring to enter the civil services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As per the official notification, the <strong>UPSC CSE 2026 Preliminary Examination<\/strong> will be held on <strong>May 24, 2026<\/strong>, followed by the <strong>Main Examination on August 21, 2026<\/strong>. Candidates are advised to check eligibility criteria, age limit, number of attempts, exam pattern and application steps carefully before applying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #34568b;color:#34568b\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #34568b;color:#34568b\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#UPSC_CSE_2026_Overview\" >UPSC CSE 2026 Overview<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#UPSC_CSE_2026_Important_Dates\" >UPSC CSE 2026: Important Dates<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#UPSC_CSE_2026_Vacancy_Details\" >UPSC CSE 2026 Vacancy Details<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Who_Can_Apply_for_UPSC_CSE_2026\" >Who Can Apply for UPSC CSE 2026?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Educational_Qualification\" >Educational Qualification<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Age_Limit_as_on_August_1_2026\" >Age Limit (as on August 1, 2026)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#UPSC_CSE_2026_Number_of_Attempts\" >UPSC CSE 2026: Number of Attempts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#UPSC_CSE_2026_Application_Fee\" >UPSC CSE 2026 Application Fee<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#How_to_Apply_for_UPSC_CSE_2026_Step-by-Step_Guide\" >How to Apply for UPSC CSE 2026? Step-by-Step Guide<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#UPSC_CSE_2026_Exam_Pattern\" >UPSC CSE 2026 Exam Pattern<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Preliminary_Examination\" >Preliminary Examination<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Main_Examination\" >Main Examination<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Important_Links_%E2%80%93_UPSC_CSE_2026\" >Important Links \u2013 UPSC CSE 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Optional_Subjects_for_UPSC_CSE_2026\" >Optional Subjects for UPSC CSE 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#UPSC_Selection_Process_2026\" >UPSC Selection Process 2026<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Stage_1_Preliminary_Examination_Prelims\" >Stage 1: Preliminary Examination (Prelims)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Stage_2_Main_Examination_Mains\" >Stage 2: Main Examination (Mains)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Stage_3_Personality_Test_Interview\" >Stage 3: Personality Test \/ Interview<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Final_Merit_List_Service_Allocation\" >Final Merit List &amp; Service Allocation<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Also_Read\" >Also Read<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#FAQs_on_UPSC_CSE_2026\" >FAQs on UPSC CSE 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/upsc-cse-2026-notification\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_CSE_2026_Overview\"><\/span>UPSC CSE 2026 Overview<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Exam Name<\/strong><\/td><td>UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Conducting Authority<\/strong><\/td><td>Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Notification Release Date<\/strong><\/td><td>February 4, 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Application Dates<\/strong><\/td><td>February 4 \u2013 February 24, 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Total Vacancies<\/strong><\/td><td>933 (Tentative)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Exam Stages<\/strong><\/td><td>Prelims, Mains, Personality Test<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Preliminary Exam Date<\/strong><\/td><td>May 24, 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Main Exam Date<\/strong><\/td><td>August 21, 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Application Mode<\/strong><\/td><td>Online<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Official Website<\/strong><\/td><td>upsc.gov.in<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/UPSC-Civil-Services-Exam-2026-1024x683.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-21897\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/UPSC-Civil-Services-Exam-2026-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/UPSC-Civil-Services-Exam-2026-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/UPSC-Civil-Services-Exam-2026-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/UPSC-Civil-Services-Exam-2026-1500x1000.png 1500w, https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/UPSC-Civil-Services-Exam-2026.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_CSE_2026_Important_Dates\"><\/span>UPSC CSE 2026: Important Dates<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Event<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Date<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Notification Release<\/td><td>February 4, 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Online Application Start<\/td><td>February 4, 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Last Date to Apply<\/td><td>February 24, 2026 (6:00 PM)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Preliminary Examination<\/td><td>May 24, 2026<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Main Examination<\/td><td>August 21, 2026<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_CSE_2026_Vacancy_Details\"><\/span>UPSC CSE 2026 Vacancy Details<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The total number of vacancies to be filled through UPSC CSE 2026 is approximately <strong>933<\/strong>, including <strong>33 vacancies reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Blindness &amp; Low Vision \u2013 7 vacancies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deaf &amp; Hard of Hearing \u2013 11 vacancies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Locomotor Disability \u2013 8 vacancies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multiple Disabilities \u2013 7 vacancies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> The final vacancy count may change after confirmation from Cadre Controlling Authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Can_Apply_for_UPSC_CSE_2026\"><\/span>Who Can Apply for UPSC CSE 2026?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Educational_Qualification\"><\/span>Educational Qualification<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Applicants must hold a <strong>Graduate degree<\/strong> from a recognized university established by an Act of the Central or State Legislature or an equivalent qualification recognized by UPSC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Age_Limit_as_on_August_1_2026\"><\/span>Age Limit (as on August 1, 2026)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Minimum Age: 21 years<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maximum Age: 32 years<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Age relaxation applicable for SC, ST, OBC, PwBD and other reserved categories<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_CSE_2026_Number_of_Attempts\"><\/span>UPSC CSE 2026: Number of Attempts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>General Category \u2013 6 Attempts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>OBC \u2013 9 Attempts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PwBD (General\/EWS\/OBC) \u2013 9 Attempts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>SC \/ ST \u2013 Unlimited (within age limit)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_CSE_2026_Application_Fee\"><\/span>UPSC CSE 2026 Application Fee<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The application fee for UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026 is as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u20b9100 for General, OBC and EWS candidates<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u20b9100 for SC, ST and Female candidates<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No fee<\/strong> for Physically Handicapped (PH) \/ Persons with Disabilities (PwD) candidates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Payment can be made online through Net Banking, Credit\/Debit Card or UPI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Apply_for_UPSC_CSE_2026_Step-by-Step_Guide\"><\/span>How to Apply for UPSC CSE 2026? Step-by-Step Guide<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Visit the official website: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/upsconline.nic.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/upsconline.nic.in<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read General Instructions and document upload guidelines carefully<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Register using the <strong>Universal Registration Number (URN)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fill the <strong>Common Application Form (CAF)<\/strong> with accurate details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Upload the required documents in the prescribed format<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pay the application fee (if applicable)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submit the application and download confirmation<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important:<\/strong> Incomplete forms or incorrect information will lead to cancellation of candidature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_CSE_2026_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span>UPSC CSE 2026 Exam Pattern<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Preliminary_Examination\"><\/span>Preliminary Examination<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Preliminary Examination consists of two objective-type papers carrying a total of <strong>400 marks<\/strong>. It is only a screening test and marks will not be counted in the final merit list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Main_Examination\"><\/span>Main Examination<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The UPSC CSE Mains consists of <strong>9 descriptive papers,<\/strong> including Essay, General Studies (I\u2013IV), two Optional papers and two qualifying language papers. The total marks for Mains are <strong>1750<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Links_%E2%80%93_UPSC_CSE_2026\"><\/span>Important Links \u2013 UPSC CSE 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>UPSC Official Website:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.upsc.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.upsc.gov.in<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UPSC Online Application Portal:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/upsconline.nic.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/upsconline.nic.in<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CSE 2026 Official Notification (PDF):<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/upsc_notification_2026_PDF_5ed3fb42a5.pdf\">Download<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UPSC Exam Calendar 2026:<\/strong> Check on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.upsc.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">upsc.gov.in<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UPSC Syllabus (Prelims &amp; Mains):<\/strong> Download from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.upsc.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">official <\/a>site<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UPSC Previous Year Question Papers:<\/strong> Available on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.upsc.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UPSC <\/a>portal<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> Candidates are advised to rely only on the official UPSC website for authentic information, updates and notifications related to UPSC CSE 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optional_Subjects_for_UPSC_CSE_2026\"><\/span>Optional Subjects for UPSC CSE 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Candidates can choose one optional subject from the following list:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Agriculture, Anthropology, Botany, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Commerce &amp; Accountancy, Economics, Geography, History, Law, Management, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Science, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science &amp; International Relations, Psychology, Public Administration, Sociology, Statistics, Zoology and Literature of recognized Indian languages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UPSC_Selection_Process_2026\"><\/span>UPSC Selection Process 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>UPSC Selection Process 2026<\/strong> for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) is conducted in <strong>three successive stages<\/strong>. Candidates must qualify each stage to move to the next level. The final selection is based on marks obtained in the Main Examination and Personality Test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stage_1_Preliminary_Examination_Prelims\"><\/span>Stage 1: Preliminary Examination (Prelims)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Civil Services Preliminary Examination is the first stage of the UPSC selection process. It consists of <strong>two objective-type papers<\/strong> conducted on the same day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Paper I \u2013 General Studies (200 marks)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paper II \u2013 CSAT (200 marks, qualifying in nature)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Total Marks: 400<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nature: Screening test only<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Marks obtained in the Prelims examination are <strong>not counted<\/strong> for the final merit list. Candidates who clear the cut-off are eligible to appear for the Main Examination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stage_2_Main_Examination_Mains\"><\/span>Stage 2: Main Examination (Mains)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Candidates qualifying the Prelims are called for the UPSC Civil Services Main Examination. This stage evaluates the candidate\u2019s <strong>academic depth, analytical ability and writing skills<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Total Papers: 9 (Descriptive)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Qualifying Papers: Indian Language &amp; English<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Merit Papers: Essay, GS I\u2013IV, Optional Paper I &amp; II<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Total Marks for Merit: 1750<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Only marks obtained in the <strong>Essay, General Studies and Optional subject papers<\/strong> are considered for shortlisting candidates to the Personality Test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stage_3_Personality_Test_Interview\"><\/span>Stage 3: Personality Test \/ Interview<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The final stage of the UPSC Selection Process 2026 is the <strong>Personality Test (Interview)<\/strong>, conducted by a board appointed by UPSC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Total Marks: 275<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Purpose: To assess personality traits, leadership qualities, decision-making ability and suitability for public service<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The interview does not test subject knowledge alone but evaluates the candidate\u2019s <strong>mental alertness, social awareness, ethical integrity and administrative aptitude<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Merit_List_Service_Allocation\"><\/span>Final Merit List &amp; Service Allocation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>final merit list<\/strong> is prepared based on the total marks obtained in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Main Examination \u2013 1750 marks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Personality Test \u2013 275 marks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total: 2025 marks<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on rank, preferences, category and availability of vacancies, candidates are allocated services such as IAS, IPS, IFS and other Central Services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Also_Read\"><\/span>Also Read<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/rrb-group-d-recruitment-2026-notification-22000-posts\/\">RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 Notification Out \u2013 Apply Online for 22,000 Posts<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/india-post-gds-recruitment-2026\/\">India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 \u2013 Apply Online for 30000+ BPM, ABPM &amp; Dak Sevak Posts<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_on_UPSC_CSE_2026\"><\/span>FAQs on UPSC CSE 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q1. When was the UPSC CSE 2026 notification released?<\/strong><br>\nThe UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 notification was released on <strong>February 4, 2026<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q2. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CSE 2026?<\/strong><br>\nThe last date to submit the online application form is <strong>February 24, 2026, up to 6:00 PM<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q3. How many vacancies are announced for UPSC CSE 2026?<\/strong><br>\nUPSC has announced approximately <strong>933 tentative vacancies<\/strong>, including reservations for PwBD categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q4. What is the age limit for UPSC CSE 2026?<\/strong><br>\nCandidates must be at least <strong>21 years<\/strong> and not more than <strong>32 years<\/strong> of age as on August 1, 2026. Age relaxation applies to reserved categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q5. How many attempts are allowed in UPSC CSE 2026?<\/strong><br>\nGeneral category candidates can attempt the exam <strong>6 times<\/strong>, OBC candidates <strong>9 times<\/strong>, while SC\/ST candidates have <strong>unlimited attempts<\/strong> within the age limit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q6. What is the application fee for UPSC CSE 2026?<\/strong><br>\nThe application fee is <strong>\u20b9100<\/strong> for General, OBC, EWS, SC, ST and Female candidates. <strong>PH\/PwD candidates are exempted<\/strong> from paying the fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q7. How can I apply for UPSC CSE 2026?<\/strong><br>\nCandidates can apply online through the official website <strong>https:\/\/upsconline.nic.in<\/strong> by completing the Universal Registration Number (URN) and Common Application Form (CAF).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q8. When will the UPSC CSE 2026 Preliminary Exam be conducted?<\/strong><br>\nThe UPSC CSE 2026 Preliminary Examination is scheduled to be held on <strong>May 24, 2026<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q9. Do Prelims marks count in the final merit list?<\/strong><br>\nNo. The Preliminary Examination is only a <strong>screening test<\/strong>. Marks obtained in Prelims are not counted in the final merit ranking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q10. What is the total marks for UPSC CSE 2026 final selection?<\/strong><br>\nThe final merit list is prepared based on <strong>2025 marks<\/strong>, which includes <strong>1750 marks<\/strong> from the Main Examination and <strong>275 marks<\/strong> from the Personality Test (Interview).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>UPSC CSE 2026 is a golden opportunity for aspirants aiming for India\u2019s top administrative services. With early planning, proper strategy and disciplined preparation, candidates can significantly improve their chances of success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/body>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Big update for UPSC aspirants. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 notification, announcing 933 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":21896,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-21894","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-job-notifications"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21894","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21894"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21894\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":21899,"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21894\/revisions\/21899"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21896"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21894"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21894"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/studybizz.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21894"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}