UPSC CSE 2026: Civil Services Exam Application Window and Key Details

Kokila Chokkanathan
The Union Public service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the Civil services Examination (CSE) 2026 notification for recruitment to prestigious central services such as the Indian Administrative service (IAS), Indian Police service (IPS), Indian Foreign service (IFS) and other allied services. The application process is currently underway on the official UPSC website.

📌 1. Notification & application Dates

  • 📅 Notification Released: 4 February 2026
  • 📝 Application Start Date: 4 February 2026
  • 📅 Last Date to Apply: 24 February 2026
  • 📍 Apply Online At: upsc.gov.in / UPSC Online Portal
The official notification for UPSC CSE 2026 includes details about how to apply, eligibility criteria, syllabus, fees and examination schedule.

🧑‍🎓 2. Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following general eligibility conditions to apply for UPSC CSE 2026:

✔ Nationality

  • Must be a citizen of india (other eligible categories may also apply as per UPSC rules)
✔ Educational Qualification

  • A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or equivalent qualification.
✔ Age Limits

  • Minimum Age: 21 years
  • Maximum Age: 32 years (age relaxation for reserved categories as per government norms)
✔ Number of Attempts

  • Generally, 6 attempts for General category, 9 for OBC, and unlimited up to the age limit for SC/ST (subject to revised UPSC notification norms).
⚠️ Important Update: New restrictions mean that candidates already serving as IAS or IFS officers will not be allowed to reappear in CSE 2026. IPS officers who are already appointed are also not eligible to opt for IPS again through this exam.

💻 3. How to Apply Online

To submit the UPSC CSE 2026 application:

Visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in.

Click on the “Online application for Various Examinations (UPSC Online)” link.

Select the Civil services Examination 2026 notification.

Register (if you’re a new user) or log in (if already registered).

Fill in the Common application Form (CAF) details.

Upload required documents (photograph, signature, etc.).

Pay the application fee (where applicable).

Submit the form before 24 February 2026.

Tip: Be careful while entering details. Once submitted, only limited corrections may be allowed during the correction window, if UPSC opens one.

🗓️ 4. Examination Schedule

According to the official calendar published by UPSC:

  • 📝 Preliminary Exam: 24 May 2026
  • 📚 Main Examination: August 2026 (expected)
  • 📊 Interview / Personality Test: Dates to be announced later.
The Preliminary exam acts as a screening test for both CSE and IFS.

🆕 5. Major Changes in the UPSC CSE 2026 Cycle

The UPSC has introduced some significant changes in the 2026 notification:

✔ Face Authentication at Exam Centres

All candidates will have to undergo mandatory data-face authentication and identity verification at the exam venue to enhance security and ensure fairness.

✔ New Attempt Limits for Serving Officers

Candidates already appointed as IAS or IFS are barred from appearing in the 2026 exam. IPS officers previously appointed will also data-face restrictions when opting for IPS again.

✔ Technology‑Enabled application Process

UPSC has upgraded its online application portal with modern features to improve convenience, transparency and ease of use for candidates.

📝 6. What Happens Next?

Once applications close on 24 February 2026, UPSC will:

  • Issue Preliminary Admit Cards a few weeks before the exam.
  • Conduct Preliminary Exams on 24 May 2026.
  • Announce Prelims results, followed by Mains and Interview stages.
  • Final results and service allocation will follow the selection stages.
📌 Quick Summary

  • UPSC CSE 2026 notification and application window are active from Feb 4 to Feb 24, 2026.
  • Eligible candidates can apply online through the official UPSC portal.
  • The Prelims exam is scheduled for May 24, with Mains later in August 2026.
  • New rules include data-face authentication and eligibility restrictions for serving officers.
 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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