Exam basics
UPSC Eligibility, Number of Attempts and Age Limit Explained
You need a graduate degree, must be 21–32 years old (with relaxations for reserved categories) and get 6 attempts in the General category. Here is the full category-wise picture.
Pragnya IAS Academy, Hyderabad · Updated 7 October 2026 · 7 min read
Educational qualification
- A degree from any university recognised in India, in any subject — there is no minimum percentage.
- Final-year students can apply for Prelims, but must show proof of passing when applying for Mains.
- Professional and technical degrees recognised as equivalent (MBBS, B.Tech, CA, etc.) are accepted; MBBS candidates who have not finished internship may appear but must complete it before the interview.
Age limit and attempts by category
| Category | Upper age limit | Number of attempts |
|---|---|---|
| General / EWS | 32 years | 6 |
| OBC (non-creamy layer) | 35 years | 9 |
| SC / ST | 37 years | Unlimited up to age limit |
| PwBD (General / EWS) | 42 years | 9 |
| PwBD (OBC) | 45 years | 9 |
| PwBD (SC / ST) | 47 years | Unlimited up to age limit |
| Defence services personnel disabled in operations | +3 to +5 years over category limit | As per category |
What counts as an attempt?
An attempt is counted the moment you appear in at least one paper of the Preliminary Examination. Simply applying, or applying and not appearing, does not use up an attempt. Disqualification or cancellation of candidature after appearing still counts.
Nationality requirements
For the IAS, IPS and IFS you must be a citizen of India. For other services, certain categories such as subjects of Nepal or Bhutan and some persons of Indian origin may be eligible, as specified in the notification.
How to plan your attempts wisely
- Do not write Prelims 'just to see' — every appearance consumes an attempt.
- Start foundation preparation during graduation so your first serious attempt is at 22–23.
- Working aspirants should map attempts against the age limit at the start, not after two failures.
At Pragnya IAS Academy, Hyderabad, mentors build an attempt plan for each student during admission counselling. Integrated Inter + IAS and Degree + IAS programmes exist precisely so students reach their first attempt fully prepared.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for UPSC?
21 years as on 1 August of the examination year.
Can a final-year student apply for UPSC?
Yes. Final-year students can write Prelims but must produce proof of graduation when applying for Mains.
Is there a minimum percentage required in graduation?
No. Any recognised degree, with any percentage, makes you eligible.
Does applying without appearing count as an attempt?
No. An attempt counts only when you appear in at least one Prelims paper.
How many attempts does an EWS candidate get?
EWS candidates get 6 attempts and the same 32-year age limit as General candidates.