474 UPSC ESE 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the notification for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026. This is a premier examination for recruiting engineers into various technical services of the Government of India. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the key information.
474 UPSC ESE 2026 Key Highlights
- Exam Name: Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026
- Conducting Body: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Vacancies: Approximately 474 (including 26 for PwBD)
- Application Mode: Online Only
- Application Portal: https://upsconline.nic.in
- Application Dates: September 26, 2025, to October 16, 2025 (till 6:00 PM)
- Preliminary Exam Date: February 8, 2026
- New System: All candidates must register on the new UPSC Online Portal and generate a Universal Registration Number (URN).
Detailed Breakdown of UPSC ESE 2026
1. Eligibility Criteria
A. Nationality:
- Must be a citizen of India, or a subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated from specified countries.
B. Age Limit (as of January 1, 2026):
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 30 years
- Age Relaxation is applicable as per government rules for:
- SC/ST: Up to 5 years
- OBC: Up to 3 years
- PwBD: Up to 10 years
- Ex-servicemen & others: As per rules.
C. Educational Qualification:
- A degree in Engineering from a recognized university/institution.
- Candidates who have passed Sections A & B of the Institution of Engineers (India) examinations.
- A few other equivalent qualifications (subject to specific conditions mentioned in the notification).
2. Exam Pattern (Three Stages)
The ESE is conducted in three stages:
Stage I: Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
- Paper I: General Studies and Engineering Aptitude (200 Marks, 2 hours)
- Paper II: Engineering Discipline-specific (Civil/Mechanical/Electrical/Electronics & Telecommunication) (300 Marks, 3 hours)
- Note: There is negative marking of 1/3rd for wrong answers.
Stage II: Main Examination (Conventional Type)
- Paper I & II: Engineering Discipline-specific (300 Marks each, 3 hours each)
- Only candidates who qualify in the Preliminary exam are eligible.
Stage III: Personality Test (Interview)
- Carries 200 marks for candidates who qualify the Main examination.
3. Services/Categories
Candidates can apply for only one of the following four engineering categories:
- Category I – Civil Engineering
- Category II – Mechanical Engineering
- Category III – Electrical Engineering
- Category IV – Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering
Each category leads to prestigious Group A and B services like Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS), Central Engineering Service, Indian Defence Service of Engineers, Indian Telecommunications Service, etc.
4. How to Apply for UPSC ESE 2026
- New Portal Registration: Visit upsconline.nic.in. Create an Account and generate a Universal Registration Number (URN). This is mandatory.
- Fill Application Form: Complete the four modules: Account Creation, URN, Common Application Form (CAF), and the Exam-Specific Form for ESE 2026.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload your photograph, signature, and other required documents as per the specified format and size.
- Pay Application Fee:
- Fee: Rs. 200/-
- Fee Exemption: Female candidates and candidates belonging to SC/ST/PwBD categories are exempted from paying the fee.
- Payment Modes: SBI branch, Visa/Master/RuPay Credit/Debit Card, UPI, or Internet Banking.
- Submit Application: Review all details carefully and submit the form. No changes are allowed after submission.
5. Important Instructions
- Photo ID: Carry a valid Photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN, Passport, etc.) to the exam center.
- Banned Items: Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, or any electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
- Photo Specification: The uploaded photograph should not be more than 10 days old. Your appearance in the prelims, mains, and interview must match the photograph (e.g., beard, spectacles).
- Admit Card: The e-Admission Certificate will be available for download from the UPSC website before the exam. It will not be sent by post.
6. Key Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | September 26, 2025 |
| Online Application Starts | September 26, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | October 16, 2025 (6:00 PM) |
| Preliminary Exam Date | February 8, 2026 |
Action Plan for Aspirants
- Read the Official Notification: Thoroughly read the official PDF to understand all rules.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the age, educational, and other criteria.
- Prepare Documents: Get your scanned photograph, signature, photo ID, and educational certificates ready.
- Apply Early: Don’t wait for the last date to avoid technical glitches and server overload.
- Start Preparing: Focus on the syllabus. Practice previous years’ question papers and take mock tests.
For any queries, candidates can contact the UPSC helpline at 011-24041001 during the application period.
Useful Links:
- UPSC Official Website: www.upsc.gov.in
- Online Application Portal: https://upsconline.nic.in
