UPSC Eligibility, Age Limit & Number of Attempts
Before you invest months in preparation, confirm that you meet the UPSC Civil Services eligibility criteria. The essentials — nationality, educational qualification, age and attempts — are summarised below.
Important: rules and relaxations can change from year to year. Always cross-check the exact figures in the official UPSC notification for the year you intend to apply.
1. Nationality
For the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS), a candidate must be a citizen of India. For some other services, certain other categories (such as specified persons of Indian origin) may also be eligible, subject to the notification's conditions.
2. Educational qualification
You need a degree from a recognised university — a graduate in any discipline is eligible. Final-year students can typically appear for the Prelims and must produce proof of passing before the Mains stage, as specified in the notification.
3. Age limit
The general age window is 21 to 32 years as on the cut-off date specified in the notification, with category-based relaxation on the upper limit:
| Category | Upper age relaxation |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | No relaxation (up to 32) |
| OBC | +3 years |
| SC / ST | +5 years |
| PwBD | Additional relaxation as per rules |
Defence service personnel and certain other categories may receive further relaxation under the notification's provisions.
4. Number of attempts
The number of permitted attempts also depends on category:
| Category | Attempts allowed |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 6 |
| OBC | 9 |
| SC / ST | Up to the upper age limit |
| PwBD (Gen/EWS/OBC) | 9 |
Appearing in the Prelims of a given year counts as one attempt; merely applying does not.
These figures reflect the long-standing pattern, but the official notification is the only authoritative source — verify before you apply.
Eligible? Start practising
If you meet the criteria, begin with real UPSC Prelims PYQs — free, subject-wise, with explanations.
Start practising →Frequently asked questions
What is the age limit for UPSC?
The general age limit is 21 to 32 years as on the notification's cut-off date, with upper-age relaxation of three years for OBC, five years for SC/ST, and further relaxation for PwBD and certain other categories. Always confirm with the official notification.
How many attempts are allowed in UPSC?
General and EWS candidates get 6 attempts, OBC candidates get 9, and SC/ST candidates may attempt until the upper age limit. Appearing in a Prelims counts as one attempt.
Can final-year students apply for UPSC?
Yes. Final-year graduates can usually appear for the Preliminary Examination and must submit proof of passing their degree before the Main Examination, as specified in the notification.