UPSC CSE 2026 – Complete Civil Services Guide

What is UPSC Civil Services Examination?

UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is India’s most prestigious and toughest competitive exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission. It recruits officers for top administrative services like IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS and other central services.

UPSC CSE 2026 – Key Highlights

UPSC CSE Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

• Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university

Age Limit

• General: 21–32 years
• OBC: 21–35 years
• SC/ST: 21–37 years

Attempts

• General: 6 attempts
• OBC: 9 attempts
• SC/ST: Unlimited

UPSC CSE Selection Process

Stage 1 – Preliminary Examination

• General Studies Paper I
• CSAT (Qualifying)

Stage 2 – Mains Examination

• 9 Descriptive Papers
• Essay, GS I–IV, Optional Subjects

Stage 3 – Interview (Personality Test)

Final assessment of leadership, integrity, and personality.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus

• History & Culture
• Indian Polity & Constitution
• Geography
• Economy
• Environment & Ecology
• Science & Technology
• Current Affairs

UPSC Mains Syllabus

• Essay Writing
• General Studies I–IV
• Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude
• Optional Subject (Paper I & II)

Top Services through UPSC CSE

• Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
• Indian Police Service (IPS)
• Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
• Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
• Other Central Group A & B Services

UPSC Officer Salary & Benefits

UPSC CSE 2026 Preparation Strategy

• Build strong foundation with NCERTs
• Daily current affairs reading
• Answer writing practice for Mains
• Regular mock tests & revision
• Consistent discipline & patience

UPSC CSE FAQs

• Is UPSC the toughest exam? – Yes, but achievable.
• Is coaching compulsory? – No.
• Can freshers crack UPSC? – Yes.
• Optional subject importance? – Very high.