Age Limits for Appearing in India’s UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)

India’s Civil Services Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is one of the most prestigious competitive exams in the country. Applicants aspiring to join the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), or other civil services need to meet certain eligibility criteria, including age limits. Understanding these rules is crucial for candidates seeking to pursue a career in public administration. Here is a detailed breakdown of the age limits for different categories:

Understanding the Age Limits for UPSC CSE

The eligibility criteria for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) varies based on the category of the candidate. Here’s a general overview:

General Category

General category candidates can appear for the UPSC exam up to 32 years of age. However, they can attempt the examination a maximum of six times. The minimum age for this category is 21 years.

Other Backward Classes (OBC)

Candidates belonging to the OBC category have a more relaxed upper age limit, typically up to 35 years. They can also attempt the examination up to a maximum of nine times. The minimum age for this category is 21 years.

Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST)

Applicants from the SC/ST category have an even more lenient upper age limit, often up to 37 years. There is no limit on the number of attempts for this category. The minimum age for this category is also 21 years.

Physically Disabled Candidates (PwBD)

For candidates with benchmark disabilities, there is no upper age limit. The minimum age limit remains at 21 years. Additional relaxations may be available based on the extent of disability.

Ex-servicemen and Commissioned Officers

Certain relaxations are provided for ex-servicemen and commissioned officers. They can deduct their years of military service from their actual age, which can further extend their age eligibility limit.

Official UPSC Website for Updated Information

It is crucial to note that the age limits and the number of attempts allowed can change from year to year. Therefore, candidates should check the official UPSC website regularly for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Additionally, for categories like serving government employees and ex-servicemen, there are specific relaxations that are mentioned on the official UPSC website.

For more detailed and current information about the IPS and IAS exams, click here.

Keywords: UPSC CSE, Age Limits, Civil Services Examination