UPSC Extends CSE 2026 Application Deadline to Feb 27

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has extended the deadline for submitting online applications for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 after candidates faced technical issues on the official portal.

Applicants can now complete their registration until February 27, 2026, up to 6 pm. The extension also applies to the Indian Forest Service Examination 2026.

Portal Slowdown Due to Heavy Traffic

According to reports, the official website experienced slow response times and login difficulties as a large number of candidates attempted to submit their applications close to the original deadline.

Several applicants reported problems such as delayed page loading and submission errors. Following these disruptions, UPSC decided to extend the last date to ensure that all candidates get a fair opportunity to apply.

Candidates must complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) process before filling out the application form. The process includes uploading documents, paying the fee (if applicable), and downloading the confirmation page.

Applicants have been advised to avoid last-minute submissions and complete the process well before the revised deadline.

933 Vacancies Through Three-Stage Process

The Civil Services Examination 2026 will be conducted to fill 933 vacancies across various central government services.

The selection process includes:

• Preliminary Examination

• Main Examination

• Personality Test (Interview)

Candidates who qualify in each stage will move forward to document verification and medical examination before final appointment.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for UPSC CSE 2026:

• Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university.

• The age limit is 21 to 32 years.

• Age relaxation is applicable for reserved category candidates as per government rules.

New Rule for Serving IAS, IPS, and IFS Officers

A key change has been introduced for this recruitment cycle. Candidates already appointed to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), or Indian Foreign Service (IFS) through an earlier examination and currently serving will not be allowed to reappear.

Such officers can take another UPSC examination only after resigning from their allotted service.

Apart from the deadline extension and this rule clarification, the Commission has not announced any additional changes for the 2026 cycle.

Candidates are advised to regularly check the official UPSC website for updates and complete their applications before February 27 to avoid further technical inconvenience.