The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the annual Civil Services Examination (CSE) for top administrative positions like IAS, IPS, and IFS.

The 2026 process involves three stages: a qualifying Prelims (objective), a descriptive Mains (written), and a Personality Test (Interview).

The exam tests comprehensive knowledge, analysis, and suitability, attracting lakhs of applicants for limited vacancies. Key Details of the UPSC Exam (2026 Structure) 

Stages of Examination:

Preliminary Exam: Two objective-type papers (General Studies I & II/CSAT) of 200 marks each, used as a screening stage with negative marking.

Main Exam: Nine descriptive papers totaling 1750 marks. It includes an essay, four GS papers, two optional subject papers, and two qualifying language papers.

Interview/Personality Test: A 275-mark interview assessing suitability for a career in public service.

Total Marks: Final merit is based on 2025 marks (1750 for Mains + 275 for Interview).

Eligibility Criteria:

Age: 21 to 32 years (as of August 1, 2024, generally, subject to relaxation for specific categories).

Education: A graduate degree from a recognized university.

Attempt Limits: Generally 6 attempts for General/EWS, 9 for OBC, and unlimited (up to age limit) for SC/ST.2026

Timeline: The notification for 2026 was originally scheduled for January 14, 2026, but has been postponed, with a revised schedule to be released by the commission. 

Exam Pattern Breakdown Prelims: GS Paper 1 (100 questions, 2 hours) and CSAT (80 questions, 2 hours).

Mains: 3-hour papers covering Indian heritage/culture, history, geography, polity, governance, economy, science & tech, and ethics.

Mode: Offline (pen and paper). Candidates must qualify each stage to proceed. The exam is highly competitive, with only about 13,000–15,000 candidates qualifying for the Mains from the millions who apply.