UPSC New Attempt Limit 2026: Latest Rules for Reappearing Candidates

The UPSC attempt limit 2026 contains 6 attempts for General/EWS candidates (up to 32 years old), 9 attempts for OBC (up to 35 years old) and unlimited attempts for SC/ST candidates within their age limit (up to 37 years old). For PwBD candidates, the upper age limit is increased to 42 years with 9 attempts (General/OBC/EWS) and unlimited attempts (SC/ST). These limits are governed by the official UPSC eligibility criteria 2026 and need to be carefully checked before one applies for the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission.

Understanding the latest updates of notifications of UPSC is very important particularly for the reappearing candidates. Let's clearly break down the rules.

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What Is the UPSC Attempt Limit 2026?

An attempt is counted if a candidate appears in at least one paper in the Preliminary Examination. Simply filing the application form is not considered an attempt.

How Attempts Are Counted

• Appearing in any of the Prelims paper = 1 attempt

• Not appearing after filling the form = No attempt counted

• disqualification after appearing = Attempt counted

This rule has a direct impact on long-term planning. Many aspirants lose the first attempts because of lack of preparation which can be costly in the long run.

UPSC Age Limit Rules 2026

The UPSC age limit rules specify the minimum and maximum age limit for eligibility.

• Minimum Age: 21 years

• General/EWS Maximum Age: 32 years

• OBC: 35 years

• SC/ST: 37 years

• PwBD: 42 years

Age and attempts go hand in hand. Even if attempts are still there, crossing the upper age limit disqualifies a candidate.

Category-Wise UPSC Attempt Limit 2026 (With Table)

Here’s a clear breakdown:

Important Note: Unlimited attempts still have to keep within the age limit.

UPSC Reattempt Rules for Selected Candidates

The UPSC reattempt rules are of particular importance for candidates who are already allotted a service.

Key Restrictions

• Therefore, the candidates appointed in IAS or IFS generally cannot reappear.

• Candidates selected for IPS or any other Group A services may be re-appearing under certain conditions.

• Some candidates may have to resign from service to reattempt beyond specific limits.

Reappearing candidates would need to take the official updates of notification from UPSC very seriously before deciding on another attempt.

UPSC Eligibility Criteria 2026 – Beyond Age & Attempts

Apart from limits on attempts, eligibility depends on:

Educational Qualification

• A bachelor's degree from a recognized university.

Nationality

• IAS & IPS: Have to be an Indian citizen.

• Other services Broader nationality criteria may apply.

Number of Attempts vs Preparation Level

Planning each attempt in a strategic manner is important.

How to Strategically Use Your Attempts

Many aspirants spoil initial attempts on account of poor planning. Instead:

1. Prepare at least 1 year before first serious attempt.

2. Avoid "trial attempts" unless syllabus is covered completely.

3. Track the performance of mock tests before applying.

Each attempt should be a serious attempt.

Best Books for UPSC Preparation

Choosing the right resources is just as important as knowing the rules of the attempt.

Recommended UPSC NCERT Books

• Class 6-12 History, Geography, Polity, Economics

• Especially NCERT Polity Modern History

Standard UPSC Prelims Books

Using limited and reliable upsc prelims books helps in avoiding confusion and also helps in multiple revisions.

Common Mistakes Related to UPSC Attempt Limit 2026

• Attempting exam without 100% completion of syllabus

• Not taking age calculation cutoff date

• Misunderstanding reattempt rules

• Not reading official notification carefully

Avoiding these mistakes means that you don't miss out on a good opportunity.

How Age Limit and Attempts Work Together (Example Scenarios)

This demonstrates the importance of long term planning.

Conclusion

The UPSC attempt limit 2026 is clearly defined: 6 attempts for General/EWS, 9 attempts for OBC and unlimited attempts for SC/ST within their respective age limits. The UPSC age limit rules and UPSC reattempt rules must be well understood before applying. Carefully reviewing the UPSC eligibility criteria 2026 and official notifications can help you avoid losing on a valuable attempt. Plan smart, select the best top books for upsc, trust the upsc ncert books, and get serious before using an attempt.

Smart planning + Right information = Increased chances of success.

Recommended Books | Study Materials