UPSC Civil Services Main Examination 2026 – Examination Time Table

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Civil Services Main Examination (CSM) as the second stage of the prestigious Civil Services (General) recruitment process. The 2026 Main Examination, part of the three‑tier system – Preliminary, Main and Interview – is scheduled according to the official time‑table released by UPSC. While the notice does not list exact vacancy numbers, the exam traditionally serves as the gateway for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service, Indian Foreign Service and other central civil services. Eligibility criteria, as per the standard UPSC guidelines, require a graduate degree from a recognized university, with age limits generally set between 21 and 32 years for general category candidates, subject to relaxations for reserved categories.

The official time‑table outlines key dates such as the start of the Main Examination, the period for each paper, and the deadlines for result declaration. Although the exact calendar is not reproduced here, aspirants should regularly check the UPSC portal for updates and mark the dates in their personal schedules. The Main Examination comprises nine compulsory papers, including two language papers, an essay, four general studies papers, and two optional subject papers. Each paper is evaluated with a maximum of 250 marks, and candidates are required to attain an aggregate score to qualify for the final interview stage.

The selection process is rigorous: after clearing the Preliminary screening, candidates appear for the Main Examination, after which qualified candidates are invited for a Personality Test (Interview). The interview carries 275 marks and assesses the candidate's overall suitability for a career in the civil services. Successful candidates receive a pay scale consistent with the All India Services, along with allowances and retirement benefits as defined by the Government of India.

This examination is suitable for recent graduates, working professionals, and anyone eager to serve the nation through a prestigious administrative role. Proper preparation, adherence to the official schedule, and compliance with UPSC’s application procedures are essential for a competitive edge.

Eligibility

Qualification: As per official notification

Always confirm eligibility against the official notification before applying — exact criteria vary by post and category, with standard age relaxations for SC/ST/OBC/PwD and ex-servicemen as per government rules.

How to Apply

• Visit the official UPSC website (upsc.gov.in) and create a new user account with a valid email ID and mobile number.
• Log in using the credentials and select the "Civil Services Main Examination 2026" application form from the list of active examinations.
• Fill in personal details, educational qualifications, and optional subject choices accurately as per the official guidelines.
• Upload scanned copies of required documents – recent passport‑size photograph, signature, scanned mark sheets of the qualifying degree, and any category certificates, if applicable.
• Pay the application fee online through the available payment modes (credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI) after reviewing the fee structure on the portal.
• Submit the completed application form and download the acknowledgment receipt; it contains a unique application number for future reference.
• Print the acknowledgment receipt and keep it safe; you may need it for subsequent stages such as admit card generation and document verification.
• Periodically check the UPSC portal for any updates, additional instructions, or changes to the examination schedule.