UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026

The Civil Services Examination (CSE) is the gateway to the most prestigious services in India, including IAS, IPS, and IFS.

1. Verified 2026 Schedule

The UPSC Annual Calendar 2026 has confirmed the following dates:

• Notification Date: Feb 04, 2026
• Prelims Exam: May 24, 2026 (Sunday)
• Mains Exam: From Aug 21, 2026 (5 Days)

2. Eligibility Criteria

Age Limit (as on Aug 1, 2026)

• Minimum: 21 Years
• Maximum: 32 Years
• Relaxations apply for OBC/SC/ST/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen.

Education

• Must hold a degree from a recognized University. Final year students can apply for Prelims.

3. Application Process

1. OTR: Register on upsconline.nic.in (One Time Registration).
2. Apply: Fill the active application form between Feb 04 and Feb 24, 2026.
3. Fee: ₹100 (Exempt for Female/SC/ST/PwBD).

4. Exam Pattern

• Prelims: Report at center with e-Admit Card. Two papers (GS + CSAT).
• Mains: 9 Papers (Subjective).
• Interview: Personality Test in New Delhi.

5. Official Resources & Downloads

Resource	Link
Official Notification	View Notifications
Apply Online	Direct Application
Syllabus	Refer Notification
Previous Year Papers	Official Archive
Admit Card	Official Portal (Active Soon)
Official Website	upsc.gov.in

6. Recommended Preparation Resources

• Standard Books:
  • Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth.
  • Modern History by Spectrum / Bipan Chandra.
  • Environment by Shankar IAS.
  • Geography by GC Leong / NCERTs (Class 11-12).
• Current Affairs:
  • The Hindu / Indian Express (Daily Reading).
  • Vision IAS / Vajiram Monthly Magazines.
• Mock Tests:
  • Vision IAS Test Series.
  • Forum IAS Simulator.
  • Insights on India (Free Initiatives).