by 
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the UPSC Notification 2026 for the Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE 2026) on 4 February 2026. The latest UPSC CSE Notification 2026 is available on the official website upsc.gov.in. This notification invites applications from eligible candidates for some of the most prestigious government services in India, including Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), Indian Revenue Service (IRS) and several other Group A and Group B services.
According to the official UPSC 2026 Notification, a total of 933 vacancies have been announced. The notification contains complete information related to exam dates, eligibility conditions, application procedure, selection process, exam pattern, and important instructions. Candidates who are planning to appear for UPSC CSE 2026 should carefully read the notification and complete the application process before the last date.
UPSC Notification 2026 Overview
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE) is conducted every year at the national level to recruit officers for India’s top administrative posts. This examination is known for its high competition level and wide syllabus.
The release of the UPSC CSE 2026 Notification marks the beginning of the recruitment cycle for 2026. Candidates get detailed information about the exam through this notification, which helps them plan their preparation in a better and more organized manner.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission |
| Exam Name | Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE 2026) |
| Notification Name | UPSC Notification 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 933 |
| Services | IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS & Other Central Services |
| Application Start Date | 4 February 2026 |
| Application Last Date | 24 February 2026 |
| Selection Process | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
| Exam Level | National |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in |
UPSC CSE Notification 2026 PDF Download
The detailed UPSC CSE 2026 Notification PDF has been released on the official UPSC website. This PDF document is very important for candidates because it contains complete official guidelines about the examination. It includes information such as eligibility requirements, exam schedule, application process, vacancy distribution, and exam pattern.
Click here to download UPSC CSE Notification 2026 PDF
Candidates should download the UPSC Notification 2026 PDF and read it carefully before applying. Understanding the official rules and instructions helps candidates avoid mistakes during registration and preparation.
UPSC Notification 2026 Important Dates
The UPSC 2026 Notification clearly mentions all important dates related to the exam process. Candidates must keep these dates in mind because missing any deadline can result in losing the opportunity to appear in the examination.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| UPSC Notification Release | 4 February 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 4 February 2026 |
| Application Last Date | 24 February 2026 |
| UPSC Prelims Exam | 24 May 2026 |
| UPSC Mains Exam | 21 August 2026 |
| Interview | To Be Announced |
Candidates are strongly advised to complete their application process early to avoid technical problems or last-minute stress.
UPSC Vacancy 2026
As per the official UPSC CSE Notification 2026, the commission has announced 933 vacancies for different civil services. These vacancies are distributed among various services like IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, and other central government services.
| Year | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 933 |
| 2025 | 1129 |
| 2024 | 1056 |
UPSC Apply Online 2026
Candidates can apply for UPSC CSE 2026 only through online mode. The application form is available on the official websites upsc.gov.in and upsconline.nic.in. The application process started on 4 February 2026 and will remain open until 24 February 2026. Applicants must fill in their personal, educational, and category details correctly. They also need to upload required documents and pay the application fee if applicable. Applying early is always recommended to avoid last-day server issues.
Click here to Apply Online for UPSC CSE 2026 [Active till 24th February 2026]
Steps to Fill UPSC Application Form 2026
The application process for UPSC CSE 2026 is completely online. Candidates should follow these steps carefully to complete their registration. The detailed steps to fill the application form for UPSC CSE 2026 has been provided below.
Step 1: Create an Account on the UPSC Online Portal
The first step in applying for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE 2026) is visiting the official application website: https://upsconline.nic.in.
Candidates must start by creating an account on the portal. During this process, they need to register using a valid email ID and active mobile number. It is very important to provide correct details because UPSC sends all important updates, including admit card notifications and exam-related alerts, to the registered contact details.
Candidates should ensure that the email ID and mobile number remain active throughout the recruitment process.
Step 2: Generation of Universal Registration Number (URN)
After successfully creating an account, candidates must complete the Universal Registration (UR) Module.
Once this step is completed, a Universal Registration Number (URN) is generated. This number is permanent and remains valid for all UPSC examinations in the future. Candidates only need to create the URN once in their lifetime.
The URN stores important personal information, including:
- Candidate’s name and date of birth
- Identity details and Photo ID information (UPSC recommends Aadhaar for easy verification)
- Contact details such as mobile number and email ID
- Permanent and correspondence address details
For any future UPSC exam application, candidates can directly use the same URN instead of entering personal details again, which makes the application process faster and easier.
Step 3: Filling the Common Application Form (CAF)
The next stage is completing the Common Application Form (CAF). This form is common for most UPSC examinations and collects detailed personal and educational information.
While filling the CAF, candidates must provide the following details:
- Capture a live photograph and upload a recent passport-size photograph
- Upload signature (candidates must sign three times on plain white paper using black ink)
- Provide complete educational qualification details
- Fill category details such as SC, ST, OBC, EWS, or PwBD, if applicable
UPSC has strict instructions regarding photograph and signature uploads. The images must be clear and follow the specified format. If candidates fail to upload proper documents, their application may be rejected.
Step 4: Examination-Specific Module – UPSC CSE 2026
The final stage of the application process is the Examination-Specific Module, which becomes available only during the official application window mentioned in the UPSC CSE 2026 notification.
In this section, candidates need to complete exam-related details, including:
- Selecting Civil Services Examination 2026
- Choosing preferred examination centre locations
- Selecting optional subject for Mains examination
- Choosing medium of examination and compulsory Indian language
- Paying the application fee (if applicable)
- Submitting the final application form
After submitting the form successfully:
- An Application Number is generated. This number is specific to the exam and is different from the URN.
- UPSC does not allow withdrawal or correction after final submission, so candidates must carefully review all details before submitting the form.
- Candidates must safely keep both the URN and Application Number for future reference and communication with UPSC.
UPSC Application Fee 2026
The UPSC Notification 2026 mentions the application fee for different categories. The fee structure is simple and affordable for most candidates.
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / EWS / OBC (Male) | ₹100 |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Female | No Fee |
Candidates can pay the fee using online methods such as debit card, credit card, net banking, or through SBI challan.
New Changes in UPSC Notification 2026: Restrictions on Applying for UPSC CSE 2026
The UPSC Notification 2026 has introduced an important clarification regarding restrictions on applying for the UPSC CSE 2026 examination. These rules mainly apply to candidates who have already been selected or allocated services through previous Civil Services Examinations. The Union Public Service Commission has clearly defined who can reappear for the exam, who cannot, and under what conditions currently serving officers are allowed to attempt the exam again.
This update is very important for candidates already working in government services or undergoing training through earlier UPSC selections. Aspirants must understand these rules carefully before deciding to apply for UPSC CSE 2026.
Absolute Restriction – Candidates Who Cannot Apply for UPSC CSE 2026
According to the official UPSC CSE Notification 2026, candidates who have already been appointed to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) or Indian Foreign Service (IFS) through previous Civil Services Examinations are not allowed to appear in the UPSC CSE 2026 examination.
Even if a candidate receives appointment to IAS or IFS after clearing the UPSC Prelims 2026, such candidates will not be permitted to appear in the Mains examination or be considered for service allocation from the 2026 cycle. This rule has been introduced to maintain fairness and reduce repeated attempts by candidates already serving in top civil services.
Special Rule for IPS Officers
Candidates who have been appointed to the Indian Police Service (IPS) through earlier Civil Services Examinations are allowed to appear in the UPSC CSE 2026 exam. However, there is one important restriction.
Such candidates cannot select or opt for IPS again while filling their service preferences during the application process. They can only aim for higher-preference services like IAS or IFS or other eligible services.
One-Time Improvement Attempt Rule
The UPSC 2026 Notification introduces a special one-time improvement opportunity linked to training exemption. If a candidate is allocated IPS or any Group ‘A’ Central Service through UPSC CSE 2026, the candidate is allowed to appear again in UPSC CSE 2027 for improvement.
This improvement attempt allows candidates to try for better service allocation without losing their existing selection. However, this facility is strictly limited to one time only.
If Candidate Does Not Join Training or Take Exemption
If a candidate selected through UPSC CSE 2026 neither joins the training nor takes the approved exemption for improvement, the service allocation received in 2026 will automatically get cancelled. Candidates must therefore make careful decisions regarding training and improvement attempts.
Rule If Candidate Appears in UPSC CSE 2027 After Taking Training Exemption
If a candidate appears in UPSC CSE 2027 after taking the improvement exemption and secures a better service, the candidate must choose only one service between the 2026 and 2027 allocations. The service not selected by the candidate will automatically be cancelled.
This rule ensures that candidates hold only one service allocation at a time.
If Candidate Appears in CSE 2027 but Fails to Secure Service
If a candidate uses the improvement attempt in UPSC CSE 2027 but does not get selected for any service, the candidate is allowed to return and join the service allocated in UPSC CSE 2026. This rule provides security and reduces risk for candidates trying to improve their service allocation.
Cancellation Rule for Not Joining Final Service
If a candidate does not join training for the final service chosen between 2026 or 2027, both service allocations will be cancelled. This means the candidate will lose all service benefits and selections obtained through both attempts.
Restriction After Using the One-Time Improvement Attempt
After using the one-time improvement opportunity in UPSC CSE 2027, the candidate cannot appear in future Civil Services examinations from UPSC CSE 2028 onwards, unless the candidate resigns from the allocated service.
This rule has been introduced to prevent repeated attempts by already selected candidates and to provide fair opportunities to fresh aspirants.
Candidates Already Selected Through CSE 2025 or Earlier
Candidates who were allocated any service through UPSC CSE 2025 or earlier examinations are allowed to appear once more in either UPSC CSE 2026 or UPSC CSE 2027 without resigning from their current service.
However, if they want to attempt the examination again after 2027, resignation from the currently allocated service becomes mandatory.
Rule for Appearing in UPSC CSE 2028 or Later
Candidates who wish to appear in UPSC CSE 2028 or future examinations after using their allowed attempts must resign from their existing civil service. Without resignation, they will not be eligible to apply for further attempts.
Why These Changes in UPSC Notification 2026 Are Important
The new rules introduced in the UPSC CSE Notification 2026 aim to regulate multiple attempts, service allocations, and training exemptions more strictly. These changes help maintain fairness in the recruitment process and ensure that selected candidates make responsible career decisions.
Candidates who are already working in civil services or undergoing training must carefully analyze these rules before applying for UPSC CSE 2026. Understanding these restrictions helps aspirants avoid losing service opportunities or facing cancellation of allocations.
UPSC Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must fulfill the eligibility requirements mentioned in the UPSC CSE 2026 Notification. These criteria ensure that candidates are suitable for administrative responsibilities.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have a graduation degree from a recognized university. Professional and technical degrees such as MBBS, Engineering, or equivalent qualifications are also accepted. Final-year students can apply provisionally.
UPSC Age Limit 2026
Candidates must meet the age limit criteria as of 1 August 2026.
| Category | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| General | 32 Years |
| OBC | 35 Years |
| SC/ST | 37 Years |
| PwBD | 42 Years |
The minimum age requirement for all candidates is 21 years.
Number of Attempts in UPSC CSE 2026
UPSC allows a limited number of attempts based on category.
| Category | Attempts |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 6 Attempts |
| OBC | 9 Attempts |
| SC/ST | Unlimited |
| PwBD | Depends on Category |
Nationality Requirements (As per UPSC CSE Notification 2026)
(1) For the Indian Administrative Service, the Indian Foreign Service and the Indian Police Service, a candidate must be a citizen of India.
(2) For other services, a candidate must be either:—
(a) a citizen of India, or
(b) a subject of Nepal, or
(c) a subject of Bhutan, or
(d) a Tibetan refugee who came over to India before 1st January, 1962 with the intention of permanently settling in India, or
(e) a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia and Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.
Provided that a candidate belonging to categories (b), (c), (d) and (e) shall be a person in whose favour a certificate of eligibility has been issued by the Government of India.
A candidate in whose case a certificate of eligibility is necessary, may be admitted to the examination but the offer of appointment may be given only after the necessary eligibility certificate has been issued to him/her by the Government of India.
UPSC CSE Selection Process 2026
The UPSC Civil Services Examination selection process is conducted in three stages. Each stage tests different skills and abilities of candidates.
1. Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary exam is the first stage and consists of objective-type questions. It is mainly used to shortlist candidates for the Mains examination.
2. Main Examination
The Mains exam is descriptive in nature and tests candidates’ knowledge, writing ability, and analytical thinking. This stage is considered very important in determining final selection.
3. Interview / Personality Test
Candidates who qualify the Mains exam are called for the interview stage. This stage evaluates personality traits, communication skills, leadership qualities, and decision-making ability.
UPSC Exam Pattern 2026
The UPSC CSE 2026 exam pattern is divided into three stages. Each stage has a different structure and marking system.
| Stage | Papers | Type | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prelims | 2 Papers | Objective | 400 |
| Mains | 9 Papers | Descriptive | 1750 |
| Interview | Personality Test | Oral | 275 |
| Total Marks | Mains + Interview | — | 2025 |
Importance of UPSC CSE Examination
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is considered one of the most prestigious exams in India. Officers selected through this exam play an important role in policy-making, administration, law enforcement, and national development. The exam provides job security, respect in society, and an opportunity to serve the nation.
