The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will finalize the prolonged application period for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 today, February 27, 2026. The application cutoff was originally set for February 24 at 6:00 PM, but the Commission extended it due to technical difficulties on its website. Aspirants who have yet to submit their applications must do so via the official website at upsc.gov.in before the closure. The CSE Preliminary Exam is slated for May 24, 2026.
Follow these Steps to apply for UPSC CSE
Step 1: Navigate to upsconline.nic.in, which is the official website of UPSC.
Step 2: After selecting the registration link, input your registration details.
Step 3: Next, log into your account.
Step 4: Fill out the application form and remit the necessary fees.
Step 5: Click the submit button to download the confirmation page.
Step 6: Retain a printed copy for future use.
Also Read: UPSC Opens Applications for CAPF 2026: Check Available Posts, Eligibility Criteria
Exam Pattern for UPSC CSE
The Preliminary phase of the UPSC Civil Services Examination entails two objective-format papers, each with a duration of two hours and a total of 200 points.
General Studies Paper I Consists of a broad spectrum of topics, including history, geography, governance, economy, science, and contemporary issues.
General Studies Paper II (CSAT) assesses candidates' analytical and logical reasoning capabilities, alongside comprehension and problem-solving skills.
Candidates must pass the CSAT paper, while the scores from Paper I are critical for determining eligibility for the Main Examination.
Also Read: UPSC Declares Hiring Results For January 2026 — Download Complete List Of Recommended Candidates
Fees and eligibility for UPSC CSE examinations
For this examination, the application fee has been kept uniform at ₹100 for all categories. General, OBC, and EWS candidates must pay ₹100, and the same fee applies to female applicants as well as those belonging to SC and ST categories. The fee must be paid through online mode, ensuring a simple and accessible process for all candidates.
Aspirants must possess a graduate degree from a recognised university to qualify for the programme. They should fall within the age bracket of 21 to 32 years. Authorities apply standard age relaxation norms to accommodate eligible candidates from reserved categories, ensuring broader access to this opportunity.
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