Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026
Complete guide to UPSC recruitment — Civil Services (IAS/IPS/IFS), CDS, NDA, CAPF, EPFO, IES/ISS, CMS and more. Get latest notifications, eligibility, syllabus, and preparation strategy.
About Union Public Service Commission
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India's premier recruiting agency for the highest-level government positions. UPSC conducts the prestigious Civil Services Examination (CSE) for IAS, IPS, IFS officers, along with CDS for defence services, NDA for armed forces, CAPF for central police forces, and various other examinations. UPSC exams are considered among the toughest competitive exams in the world. Sarkarify provides timely updates on all UPSC notifications, schedules, and results.
UPSC Exams & Posts
| Exam | Frequency | Posts |
|---|---|---|
| CSE | Annual | IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, IRTS — 24 services |
| CDS | Twice a year | IMA, INA, AFA, OTA |
| NDA | Twice a year | Army, Navy, Air Force (after 12th) |
| CAPF | Annual | Assistant Commandant in BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB |
| IES/ISS | Annual | Economist, Statistician in central govt |
| CMS | Annual | Medical Officer in railways, ESIC, MCD |
Eligibility Criteria
| Exam | Age Limit | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| UPSC CSE | 21-32 years | Bachelor's Degree from recognized university |
| UPSC CDS | 19-25 years | Bachelor's Degree (IMA/OTA), Engineering (AFA) |
| UPSC NDA | 16.5-19.5 years | 12th Pass (10+2) |
| UPSC CAPF | 20-25 years | Bachelor's Degree |
| UPSC CMS | 32 years max | MBBS from recognized institution |
Latest Union Public Service Commission Jobs
View AllPreparation Tips for UPSC Exams
- 1Build a strong foundation with NCERT textbooks (Class 6-12)
- 2Read The Hindu or Indian Express daily for current affairs
- 3Start optional subject preparation early — it can make or break your rank
- 4Practice answer writing regularly for Mains examination
- 5Join a test series for Prelims mock tests
- 6Focus on essay writing and ethics paper — high-scoring sections
Frequently Asked Questions
How many attempts are allowed for UPSC CSE?
General category candidates get 6 attempts until age 32. OBC candidates get 9 attempts until age 35. SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts until age 37.
What is the salary of an IAS officer?
An IAS officer starts at Pay Level 10 (Rs. 56,100) and can reach Pay Level 18 (Rs. 2,50,000) as Cabinet Secretary. Additional benefits include HRA, DA, official residence, car, and other allowances.
How long does it take to prepare for UPSC CSE?
Most successful candidates prepare for 1-2 years. The ideal preparation time depends on your background, but a focused 12-18 month plan covering Prelims, Mains, and Interview is recommended.
Can I appear for UPSC CSE while in final year of graduation?
Yes, final year students can apply for UPSC CSE Prelims. However, proof of passing the degree must be submitted before the Mains examination.