The August 1st Cutoff Rule
Unlike many other exams that use January 1st or your actual exam date, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) strictly uses August 1st of the examination year as the reference date for calculating your age.
This causes massive confusion for aspirants. For example, if you are attempting the UPSC 2026 exam, you must be at least 21 years old and not have crossed your category's upper age limit as of August 1, 2026.
Age Limits & Number of Attempts
General / Unreserved (UR) & EWS
- Age Limit: 21 to 32 years
- Max Attempts: 6
Other Backward Classes (OBC - Non-Creamy Layer)
- Age Limit: 21 to 35 years (3 years relaxation)
- Max Attempts: 9
Scheduled Castes (SC) / Scheduled Tribes (ST)
- Age Limit: 21 to 37 years (5 years relaxation)
- Max Attempts: Unlimited (up to the maximum age limit)
Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD)
- General/EWS/OBC PwBD: Up to 42 years (9 attempts)
- SC/ST PwBD: Up to 42 years (Unlimited attempts)
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I sit for only one paper in Prelims?
According to UPSC rules, appearing in any one paper (GS Paper I or CSAT) of the Civil Services Preliminary Examination is counted as a full attempt for the Civil Services Examination.
Does clearing Prelims mean my attempt is not counted if I fail Mains?
No. The attempt is counted the moment you sit for the Prelims. Whether you fail Prelims, fail Mains, or fail the Interview, it is still counted as one of your attempts.