UPSC Civil Services Examination
Check age eligibility for IAS, IPS, IFS and allied Group A Central Services with category-wise relaxation and attempt limits.
Select your date of birth to check eligibility.
Graduation in any subject required. Age counted as of August 1, 2026 (official UPSC CSE 2026 cutoff).
Official Age Limits — UPSC CSE
Cutoff Date
Age is calculated as of
Quick Tips
- Exact Calculation
Age is counted to the day on the cutoff date.
- Category Proof
Submit caste/category certificate at application time.
UPSC CSE Age Limit 2026 — Complete Guide
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 age limit is calculated as of August 1, 2026. Candidates must fall within the age bracket mandated by their reservation category on this date. The Union Public Service Commission strictly enforces these limits and does not grant individual exceptions.
Category-wise UPSC Age Limit 2026
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age | Attempts Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / EWS | 21 Years | 32 Years | 6 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 21 Years | 35 Years | 9 |
| SC / ST | 21 Years | 37 Years | Unlimited |
| PwBD (General/EWS) | 21 Years | 42 Years | 9 |
| PwBD (OBC) | 21 Years | 45 Years | 9 |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 21 Years | 47 Years | Unlimited |
How is UPSC Age Calculated?
UPSC calculates your age precisely as of August 1 of the exam year. If you turn 21 on or before August 1, 2026, you meet the minimum age criterion. If you turn 33 on or after August 2, 2026 (General category), you are still eligible for UPSC CSE 2026.
The calculation is straightforward: subtract your date of birth from August 1, 2026 to get years, months and days. The total must fall between the minimum and maximum age for your category.
UPSC Age Limit — Important Rules
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in any subject from a recognized university.
- Appearing candidates (final-year students) may also apply, subject to submitting proof before interview.
- The number of attempts is counted from Prelims, not Mains or Interview.
- A Prelims attempt counts even if you are absent on the exam day (once the hall ticket is issued).
- OBC (Creamy Layer) candidates are treated as General for age and attempt calculation.
- PwBD relaxation is over and above the category relaxation.
Tips for Candidates Near the Age Limit
- Last attempt strategy: If this is your last attempt, apply even if preparation is incomplete — experience helps.
- Optional subject: Choose a subject you studied at graduation for better output in less time.
- Mock test series: In the final months before Prelims, focus on timed mock tests rather than new material.
- Documentation: Ensure your category certificate is current (OBC certificates must be dated within the current financial year).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any age relaxation for defence personnel in UPSC CSE?
Yes. Ex-servicemen who have rendered at least 5 years of military service get relaxation up to 37 years (General), 40 years (OBC), and 42 years (SC/ST).
Can I appear in UPSC CSE 2026 if I turn 21 on August 1, 2026?
Yes. You must complete 21 years on or before August 1, 2026 — the exact date qualifies.
Does appearing for Prelims but not qualifying count as an attempt?
Yes. Once you appear for the Prelims examination, it counts as one attempt regardless of your result.
What is the UPSC CSE 2026 notification date?
UPSC typically releases the CSE notification in February. The 2026 notification is expected around February–March 2026. Always verify on the official UPSC website.