Quick answerThe usual UPSC CSE baseline is 21 to 32 years for the general category on the date specified in the notification. Relaxations commonly apply to eligible OBC, SC, ST, PwBD and certain service categories. The applicable 2026 notification is final.
UPSC age relaxation overview
| Category | Common upper-age relaxation | What to verify |
|---|
| General / EWS | No category relaxation | Base upper age and cut-off date |
| OBC | Up to 3 years | Non-creamy-layer status and valid certificate |
| SC / ST | Up to 5 years | Certificate and notification conditions |
| PwBD | Category-dependent relaxation | Benchmark disability and service suitability rules |
| Defence / ex-servicemen categories | Rule-dependent | Exact service and discharge conditions |
Do not calculate eligibility from the examination date. Use the exact date-of-birth window printed in the official notice.
UPSC attempts and age are separate checks
A candidate must satisfy both the age rule and the attempt rule. Merely submitting an application does not always count as an attempt; appearing in at least one Prelims paper generally does. Category limits and exceptions must be checked in the current notice.
UPSC age-limit FAQs
What is the general UPSC CSE age limit?
The usual baseline is 21 to 32 years on the notification-specified cut-off date.
Is there age relaxation for OBC and SC/ST candidates?
Commonly, eligible OBC candidates receive up to three years and SC/ST candidates up to five years, subject to the current notice and certificate rules.
Does reservation automatically guarantee age relaxation?
No. The candidate must satisfy the category, certificate and other conditions stated in the official notification.