UPSC CSE Eligibility: Age, Attempts & Category Relaxations
To apply for the Civil Services Examination you must be a graduate (any discipline) and meet the nationality and age rules. Age limits and the number of attempts depend on your category.
Age & attempts by category (indicative)
| Category | Upper age limit | Attempts |
|---|---|---|
| General | 32 years | 6 |
| OBC | 35 years (3-yr relaxation) | 9 |
| SC / ST | 37 years (5-yr relaxation) | Unlimited (up to age limit) |
| PwBD | Additional relaxation applies | Additional attempts apply |
Indicative — exact age and attempt rules and how they are calculated are set in the official notification each year. Verify before applying.
Always confirm on the official portal: Eligibility, age relaxations and attempt rules can change and have specific cut-off dates. Confirm the current rules in the official notification.