The UPSC Civil Services Examination recruits to the IAS, IPS, Indian Foreign Service and other notified services. The 2027 notification must be read for vacancies, dates and service rules.
What this exam or admission route is
The examination has Preliminary, Main and Interview/Personality Test stages. The preliminary examination is a screening stage; final ranking is based on the components specified in the notification.
Who can apply
The 2027 notice will define nationality by service, graduate qualification, age on the cut-off date, number of attempts and category relaxations. Candidates awaiting a degree result should check the stage by which proof is required.
Exam or selection structure
- Preliminary: two objective General Studies papers, with the qualifying rule specified for Paper II
- Main: written language/essay/general studies/optional papers as notified
- Personality Test for candidates who qualify the written Main examination
- Medical and service-allocation requirements after final selection
How to apply
- Complete the UPSC online account/registration on the current application portal
- Submit the Civil Services Preliminary application within the notice window
- Choose examination centre and optional/language details carefully when asked
- Download e-admit cards and results only from UPSC
Preparation and planning
Build the syllabus around current affairs linked to static subjects, revise repeatedly and practise both objective prelims questions and answer writing. Use official previous question papers from UPSC.
Documents to keep ready
- Class 10 certificate for name and date of birth
- Qualifying-examination marksheets and certificate
- Recent photograph, signature and valid photo ID
- Category, EWS, PwD, domicile or experience certificate, where applicable
- Application confirmation, fee receipt, admit card and scorecard
Official links
Fact-check note: verified on 2 September 2026. Future dates, fees, seats and eligibility can change. The current official notification always takes priority over this guide.