General-category candidates get 6 attempts, OBC candidates get 9 attempts, and SC/ST candidates get unlimited attempts (within the upper age limit) in the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
UPSC Attempts Limit by Category
| Category | Number of Attempts |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 6 |
| OBC | 9 |
| SC / ST | Unlimited (till upper age limit) |
| PwBD (General/EWS/OBC) | 9 |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | Unlimited (till upper age limit) |
What Counts as an Attempt?
An attempt is counted only when you actually appear for at least one paper of the Preliminary Examination. Simply filling the application form or downloading the admit card does not consume an attempt. If you apply but do not show up for the exam, your attempt count is untouched.
Plan Your Attempts Wisely
- Do not waste early attempts “just to see the paper” — each attempt should be a serious, prepared one.
- Your attempts and your age limit run together; whichever exhausts first ends your eligibility.
- Many toppers clear the exam in their 2nd or 3rd attempt — a failed first attempt with honest analysis is often the foundation of the final selection.