How many attempts are allowed for UPSC exams?

Number of Attempts for UPSC Exams

As an experienced tutor registered on UrbanPro.com, I'm well aware of the significance of understanding the number of attempts allowed for UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exams. UPSC conducts various competitive examinations for recruitment into prestigious government services. The number of attempts permitted for these exams varies depending on several factors. Here's a structured guide to help you understand the rules regarding the number of attempts:

1. Civil Services Examination (CSE):

• General Category Candidates: A total of 6 attempts are allowed, typically until the candidate reaches the upper age limit, which is 32 years as of August 1 of the examination year.

• Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) Candidates: Unlimited attempts within the upper age limit, which is 37 years.

• Other Backward Classes (OBC) Candidates: A total of 9 attempts within the upper age limit, which is 35 years.

• Physically Handicapped (PH) Candidates (General Category): A total of 9 attempts within the upper age limit.

• Physically Handicapped (PH) Candidates (OBC and SC/ST): Unlimited attempts within the upper age limit.

2. Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination:

• The number of attempts is counted separately from the Civil Services Examination.

• The same attempt rules as mentioned for CSE apply, based on the candidate's category.

3. Engineering Services Examination (ESE):

• General Category Candidates: A total of 7 attempts are allowed, typically until the candidate reaches the upper age limit, which is 30 years.

• OBC Candidates: A total of 10 attempts within the upper age limit, which is 33 years.

• SC and ST Candidates: Unlimited attempts within the upper age limit, which is 35 years.

4. Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination:

• The number of attempts varies depending on the specific academy or service the candidate is applying for.

5. National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination:

• NDA: Candidates can appear for the NDA exam until they reach the age of 19.5 years.

6. Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination:

• The maximum age limit for the CMS exam varies, but the number of attempts is generally not restricted.

7. Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) Examination:

• The number of attempts is generally not restricted, but candidates must meet the age criteria.

8. Indian Economic Service (IES) and Indian Statistical Service (ISS) Examination:

• The number of attempts is generally not restricted.

9. Geologists' Examination:

• The number of attempts is typically not restricted.

10. Combined Geo-Scientist and Geologist Examination:

• The number of attempts is usually not restricted.

These are the general rules regarding the number of attempts for various UPSC exams. However, I recommend checking the official UPSC notifications for specific exams and consulting experienced UPSC exam coaching tutors and coaching institutes listed on UrbanPro.com for the latest information and guidance on attempts and exam preparation.