UPSC CSE 2026 Application Deadline Near: Prelims Registration Closes Feb 24, Check Exam Dates & Steps to Apply

The registration window for India’s most competitive civil services examination is set to close soon, giving aspirants only a limited time to complete their applications. The Union Public Service Commission has announced that candidates can apply for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) Preliminary 2026 only until February 24, 2026. The application process, which began earlier this month, is being conducted entirely online.

Registration Timeline and Vacancy Details

The official notification for both the Civil Services Examination 2026 and the Indian Forest Service Examination 2026 was released on February 4. Along with the notification, the online application portal was activated the same day.

Through CSE 2026, the commission aims to fill approximately 933 vacancies across prestigious government services. These include posts in the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service, Indian Revenue Service, and other Group A and Group B central services. A separate notification has been issued for the Indian Forest Service examination.

Candidates who wish to appear for the exam must complete their registration before 6:00 PM on February 24. Missing the deadline means losing the opportunity to apply this year.

Important Exam Dates

Applicants should carefully note the official schedule:

• Notification Release: February 4, 2026

• Application Start Date: February 4, 2026

• Last Date to Apply: February 24, 2026 (6 PM)

• Correction Window: To be announced

• Preliminary Exam: May 24, 2026

• Main Examination: August 21, 2026

Timely submission is essential because the commission rarely extends deadlines.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification:
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Final-year students awaiting results are also eligible to apply for the preliminary exam.

Age Limit:
Applicants must be at least 21 years old and not more than 32 years old as of August 1, 2026. This means eligible candidates should be born between August 2, 1994, and August 1, 2005. Age relaxations apply to reserved categories such as SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD as per government rules.

New Technical Changes in Application Process

This year, the commission has introduced important technical updates to strengthen verification and reduce discrepancies. Candidates are now required to capture a live photograph during the application process, and it must match their uploaded passport-size photo.

In addition, new signature guidelines have been implemented. Applicants must sign three times on plain white paper using black ink and upload a clear scanned copy. Applications that fail to meet these specifications may be rejected.

Application Fee Details

• ₹100: General, OBC, and EWS category male candidates

• No Fee: All female candidates, SC, ST, and PwBD applicants

The fee can be paid through online payment modes available on the application portal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online

1. Visit the official application portal.

2. Complete One-Time Registration (OTR) with basic details such as name, date of birth, and contact information.

3. Log in using generated credentials.

4. Fill personal and educational details in Part I registration.

5. Upload photo, signature, and photo ID in Part II.

6. Select your exam center and accept the declaration.

7. Pay the fee (if applicable) and submit the form.

8. Save the registration number for future reference.

Why Candidates Should Apply Early

Applying early helps avoid last-minute technical glitches, server delays, or document errors. Since CSE is a multi-stage examination involving prelims, mains, and interview rounds, timely completion of the first step is crucial.

Aspirants preparing for India’s top civil services positions should therefore ensure that all documents are ready and the application is submitted well before the deadline.