A general-category candidate must be between 21 and 32 years old to appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination. The age is counted as on 1st August of the exam year.
Category-wise UPSC Age Limit Relaxation
| Category | Upper Age Limit | Relaxation |
|---|---|---|
| General / EWS | 32 years | — |
| OBC | 35 years | 3 years |
| SC / ST | 37 years | 5 years |
| PwBD (General) | 42 years | 10 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 45 years | 13 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 47 years | 15 years |
Minimum Age
The minimum age is 21 years for all categories — there is no relaxation on the lower side. You must have attained 21 years (and not yet crossed the upper limit) on 1st August of the year you appear.
Important Notes
- Age limits apply separately to each attempt — crossing the upper age limit ends your eligibility even if attempts remain.
- For the Indian Forest Service (a separate UPSC exam), the same age framework broadly applies.
- Always confirm the exact cut-off date in the official notification on upsc.gov.in, as the reference date is fixed per exam year.