By How Many Attempts Are Allowed for the UPSC Exam? Eligibility & Category-Wise Limits Explained
The UPSC Civil Services Exam is one of the most challenging and prestigious exams in India. Many aspirants wonder, “How many attempts do I get to clear the UPSC exam?” This question is crucial for planning your preparation strategy and understanding your eligibility.
JiGuruG brings you a clear, updated guide on UPSC attempt limits, age criteria, and category-wise relaxations so you can plan your journey confidently.
UPSC Attempt Limits – Category Wise
| Category | Maximum Attempts Allowed | Age Limit (Years) |
|---|---|---|
| General | 6 | 21 to 32 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 9 | 21 to 35 |
| SC/ST | Unlimited (Till Age Limit) | 21 to 37 |
| EWS | 6 | 21 to 32 |
| PwD (General) | 9 | 21 to 42 |
| PwD (OBC) | 9 | 21 to 45 |
| PwD (SC/ST) | Unlimited | 21 to 47 |
Important Notes on UPSC Attempt Rules
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Attempt count is applicable only to the Main exam stage (not Prelims alone).
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Candidates must meet the age eligibility by the date specified in the UPSC notification.
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Relaxations in age and attempts are given only to candidates belonging to the specified categories.
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If a candidate clears the exam before using all attempts, remaining attempts become irrelevant.
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Attempt count resets if you change categories due to reclassification by the government.
Tips to Plan Your UPSC Attempts Wisely
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Start Early: The earlier you begin, the more attempts you get.
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Focus on Quality Preparation: Multiple attempts should not mean half-hearted preparation.
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Know Your Limits: Keep track of your attempt count to avoid last-minute surprises.
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Take Coaching & Mentorship: Institutes like The Prayas India and resources on JiGuruG help strategize your preparation effectively.
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Stay Updated: UPSC rules may update occasionally; keep an eye on official notifications.
How JiGuruG Helps Aspirants With UPSC Preparation
At JiGuruG, aspirants get access to:
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Verified and up-to-date UPSC eligibility and attempt criteria
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Expert tips and study materials tailored for each attempt
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Information on best coaching centers like The Prayas India
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Regular updates on exam notifications and rule changes
Understanding your UPSC attempt limits and eligibility criteria is fundamental for a focused preparation strategy. Whether you belong to the General, OBC, SC/ST, or PwD categories, knowing these details helps you plan smartly and stay motivated.
With JiGuruG’s guidance and expert resources, your UPSC journey becomes more organized and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About UPSC Attempts
Q1. Can I appear for UPSC prelims unlimited times?
No, the attempt limit applies to the Main exam stage. You can appear for prelims multiple times, but you must clear prelims to move ahead.
Q2. Does age limit and attempt count get relaxed for reserved categories?
Yes, reserved categories like OBC, SC/ST, PwD get age and attempt relaxations as per UPSC rules.
Q3. If I clear UPSC in my first attempt, do the remaining attempts get wasted?
No, once you clear the exam, your journey ends, and remaining attempts are irrelevant.
Q4. What happens if I exceed the maximum attempts?
You become ineligible for future UPSC attempts unless there is a rule change or category reclassification.
Q5. Is there any difference in attempts for IAS, IPS, or other services?
No, the attempt limits apply uniformly to all Civil Services under UPSC.