UPSC CSE Age Limit 2026 — Check Your Eligibility by Category
The UPSC Civil Services (IAS/IPS/IFS) (2026) sets the age limit at 21–32 years for General category candidates, calculated as on 1 August 2026. Reserved categories receive relaxation: OBC candidates get 35 years, SC/ST candidates 37 years, and PwD candidates 42 years upper limit.
Category-Wise Age Limits
| Category | Min Age | Max Age | Relaxation |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 21 years | 32 years | - |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 21 years | 35 years | +3 yrs |
| SC / ST | 21 years | 37 years | +5 yrs |
| PwD (Persons with Disabilities) | 21 years | 42 years | +10 yrs |
| Ex-Servicemen | 21 years | 37 years | +5 yrs |
| J&K Domicile | 21 years | 37 years | +5 yrs |
💡 Enter your DOB to check if YOU are eligible for UPSC CSE 2026
Check Your Eligibility →Detailed Age Limit Information
📋 Age Criteria
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age (General): 32 years
- Age Calculation Date: 1 August 2026
- Conducting Body: Union Public Service Commission
🎯 Attempts Limit
- General: 6
- OBC: 9
- SC/ST: Unlimited
Age Relaxation Rules
Standard Relaxations
- OBC (NCL): 3 years relaxation
- SC/ST: 5 years relaxation
- PwD: 10 years relaxation
- Ex-Servicemen: 5 years after service
Important Notes
- • Relaxations are applied on the upper age limit only
- • Minimum age remains same for all categories
- • Cumulative relaxations apply for eligible candidates
- • Always verify with official notification
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the age limit for UPSC CSE 2026?
A: The UPSC CSE 2026 age limit is 21-32 years for General category candidates, calculated as on 1st August 2026.
Q: What is the UPSC CSE age limit for OBC candidates?
A: OBC candidates get 3 years relaxation with a maximum age limit of 35 years for UPSC CSE 2026.
Q: What is the UPSC CSE age limit for SC/ST candidates?
A: SC/ST candidates get 5 years relaxation with a maximum age limit of 37 years for UPSC CSE 2026.
Q: How many attempts are allowed in UPSC CSE?
A: General: 6 attempts, OBC: 9 attempts, SC/ST: Unlimited attempts till upper age limit.
Q: On which date is age calculated for UPSC CSE?
A: Age is calculated as on 1st August of the examination year (01-08-2026 for CSE 2026).
Q: Can I apply for UPSC CSE if I am 32 years old?
A: Yes, if you are exactly 32 years old as on 1st August 2026, you are eligible for UPSC CSE under General category.
Q: What is the age relaxation for PwD in UPSC CSE?
A: PwD candidates get 10 years relaxation with a maximum age limit of 42 years for UPSC CSE 2026.
Q: What is the minimum age for UPSC CSE?
A: The minimum age for UPSC CSE is 21 years as on 1st August 2026.
Ready to Check Your Eligibility?
Use our Age Calculator for a personalised eligibility verdict and see if you qualify for UPSC CSE 2026
Try the Age Calculator →Age limits are based on the 2026 official notification released by Union Public Service Commission. Last verified: 2026-02-04. Always check the official notification at Union Public Service Commission website