UPSC Prelims 2026: Official Notification Date, Exam Date & Eligibility

Introduction: Why UPSC Prelims 2026 Notification Matters (Why Now)

Thousands of students prepare every year for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), which selects officers for IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, and other top government services. In 2026, competition is expected to increase because of new graduates, updated exam strategies, digital learning, and rising interest in government careers.

The UPSC Prelims 2026 Notification gives students official details about the exam, including dates, eligibility, syllabus, important rules, and the application process. Knowing the notification early helps students plan their preparation, revise the syllabus properly, and avoid missing deadlines.

What Is UPSC Prelims Notification?

The UPSC Prelims Notification is an official document released by the Union Public Service Commission containing:

• Exam dates
• Eligibility criteria
• Number of vacancies
• Syllabus and exam pattern
• Reservation rules
• Application process
• Important instructions
• Age limits & attempt limits

It is the first and most important step for every UPSC aspirant.

UPSC Prelims 2026 Important Dates (Expected)

Based on previous year trends, these are the expected dates for UPSC 2026:

(Final dates will be confirmed only in the official UPSC notification.)

Eligibility for UPSC Prelims 2026

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university
• Final-year students can also apply

Age Limit (General Category)

• Minimum: 21 years
• Maximum: 32 years

Age Relaxation

Category Relaxation
OBC +3 years
SC/ST +5 years
PwD +10 years

Number of Attempts

Category Allowed Attempts
General 6
OBC 9
SC/ST Unlimited (till age limit)

UPSC Prelims Exam Pattern 2026

Paper 1: General Studies (GS)

• 200 marks
• Objective type
• Topics: History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Environment, Science, Current Affairs

Paper 2: CSAT (Qualifying)

• 200 marks
• Must score 33% to pass
• Topics: Reasoning, comprehension, maths, decision-making

Syllabus Highlights for Prelims 2026 (Updated Pattern)

• Indian History & National Movement
• Physical & Political Geography
• Indian Polity & Governance
• Economic Development
• Environment, Climate & Biodiversity
• General Science & Space
• International Relations
• Current Affairs (last 1–2 years)
• Environmental agreements and global issues
• Government policies and schemes

UPSC is increasing focus on environment, economy, science, and international affairs.

How to Apply for UPSC Prelims 2026

1. Visit: upsconline.nic.in
2. Fill Part 1 registration
3. Upload photo, signature, and ID documents
4. Submit application fee:
• General / OBC Male: ₹100
• SC/ST/PwD/Female: No fee
5. Submit final application
6. Download and print the confirmation page

Vacancies for UPSC 2026 (Expected)

Vacancies vary each year.
Expected range for UPSC CSE 2026: 850–1100 seats

Popular posts include:

• IAS
• IPS
• IFS
• IRS
• IAAS
• IRTS
• DANICS
• Other central services

Preparation Tips for UPSC 2026

1. Start with NCERTs

Build strong basics in History, Geography, Polity, Economy, and Science.

2. Follow a fixed newspaper or news source

Prefer: The Hindu / Indian Express + PIB summaries.

3. Use standard books

• Laxmikant (Polity)
• Spectrum (History)
• NCERTs (Geography, Science)
• Economic Survey & Budget

4. Solve mock tests

Practice improves speed and accuracy.

5. Revise multiple times

UPSC questions come from deep understanding, not one-time reading.

Future Scope after Clearing UPSC

Candidates who clear UPSC join prestigious services such as:

• Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
• Indian Police Service (IPS)
• Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
• Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
• Government policy departments
• International assignments
• Advisory and research roles

The UPSC journey builds strong leadership, decision-making, and policy skills.

Conclusion

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