The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Civil Services Examination (CSE) every year in May or June. Known globally for its difficulty, the UPSC CSE ranks as the third toughest examination in the world. Each year, nearly 10 lakh aspirants appear for the UPSC Prelims, but only a fraction qualify for the Mains, and an even smaller number make it to the final interview round.

The UPSC has laid out strict eligibility criteria for candidates appearing in the Civil Services Examination. If you're planning to appear for the UPSC Prelims in 2026 or beyond, here's a detailed breakdown of the number of attempts allowed, age limits, and other eligibility requirements.

UPSC Prelims 2025 Held On May 25

This year’s Preliminary Examination was conducted on May 25, 2025. Candidates preparing for government jobs are now eagerly waiting for the UPSC Prelims Result 2025. All updates related to the result will be made available on the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in.

How Many Times Can You Attempt The UPSC Exam?

UPSC has defined a category-wise limit on the number of attempts:

1. General And EWS: 6 attempts
2. OBC: 9 attempts
3. SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (until the age limit is reached)
4. PwBD (Persons With Benchmark Disabilities):

• General/OBC PwBD: 9 attempts
• SC/ST PwBD: Unlimited attempts (within age limit)

Note: An attempt is counted only when a candidate appears in at least one paper of the Preliminary Examination. Simply filling out the application form does not count as an attempt. Even if a candidate does not qualify for the Mains, appearing in the Prelims still counts as one attempt.

UPSC Prelims 2025: Age Limit Criteria

The age is calculated based on August 1, 2025. Candidates must fall within the following age limits as of that date:

• Minimum Age For All Categories: 21 years
• Maximum Age Limits By Category:

1. General/EWS: 32 years
2. OBC: 35 years (3-year relaxation)
3. SC/ST: 37 years (5-year relaxation)
4. PwBD:

• General/OBC: 42 years (10-year relaxation)
• SC/ST: 42 years (age cap with unlimited attempts)
• Ex-Servicemen (General): 37 years (5-year relaxation)
• Residents of Jammu & Kashmir (1980–1989): 37 years (5-year relaxation)

Cumulative Relaxation: In certain cases, relaxations can be combined. For instance, an OBC ex-serviceman can avail of 3 (OBC) + 5 (ex-serviceman) = 8 years relaxation, making the upper age limit 40 years.

UPSC CSE Eligibility Criteria At A Glance

Educational Qualification: A bachelor's degree from a recognised university is mandatory. Final-year students are also eligible to apply, but they must provide proof of graduation while applying for the Mains exam.
Nationality:

For IAS And IPS: The candidate must be an Indian citizen.
For Other Services: Nationals of Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibetan refugees (as per prescribed conditions) may also apply.

Aspirants are encouraged to regularly check the UPSC’s official website for the latest updates and notifications regarding the Civil Services Examination.