UPSC CSE New Attempt Rule Update 2026 : UPSC Civil Services Examination CSE current examination rules have received their most recent updates. The Union Public Service Commission has introduced a new limit related to the number of attempts for candidates who have already cleared the CSE. The change affects all candidates who want to retest because they want to get better scores which will improve their eligibility for better services.
What is the new rule
The latest update states that all candidates who passed the Civil Services Examination will now have their future attempts restricted. The UPSC has established a single exemption policy for these candidates which applies to specific cases. The candidate who has been selected once already is allowed to take one additional test only if he fulfills the requirements defined in the notification.
Who will be affected
The change impacts candidates who already passed the UPSC CSE and received their service assignment and wish to take another test to achieve a better rank or obtain a different service.
Fresh candidates or candidates who have not cleared CSE earlier will continue under the normal attempt rules.
Why UPSC introduced this change
The UPSC implemented this change to maintain equality during the entire selection procedure. Candidates who successfully completed their exams in the previous selection system were permitted to attempt the examination multiple times. The new rule from UPSC intends to create limited chances for candidates while granting additional testing opportunities to new applicants.
Current attempt limits
The normal attempt limits remain the same for candidates who have not cleared CSE earlier
• The General and EWS category allows 6 attempts
• The OBC category permits 9 attempts
• SC and ST category: Unlimited attempts (within age limit)
A candidate receives an attempt count when he participates in the Prelims Paper 1 examination process.
Important points to remember
• The one time exemption is not automatic
• Candidates must check the official notification carefully
• Age limit rules still apply
• Final decision depends on UPSC guidelines
Official website
- Candidates should check full details only on the official UPSC websites
https://www.upsc.gov.in
https://upsconline.nic.in
The new UPSC rule on attempt limits is a major update for candidates who plan to reappear after clearing the Civil Services Examination. The official notification must be read by aspirants so they can create their study approach.











