The UPSC ESE 2026 notification has officially been released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on 26th September 2025, with 474 vacancies for various engineering disciplines. The Engineering Services Examination (ESE), also known as the Indian Engineering Services (IES), is one of the most prestigious exams conducted by UPSC to recruit engineers for Grade A positions in government departments.
The UPSC ESE Preliminary Exam will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, while the Main Exam is scheduled for 21st June 2026. The application window remains open from 26th September to 16th October 2025 at upsc.gov.in. Hence , if you are aspiring to secure top technical roles under the Government of India must go through the complete notification details , which includes eligibility, exam pattern, vacancies, and selection process , to ensure a smooth application
UPSC ESE 2026 Notification Out
The UPSC ESE 2026 Notification was released on 26th September 2025, bringing a golden opportunity for engineering graduates seeking Group A and Group B Central Government Jobs. The application window for UPSC ESE 2026 opened on 26th September 2025 and will remain active till 16th October 2025 on the official website which is upsc.gov.in.
The recruitment process will take place in three phases:
- First , the Preliminary Examination
- Second , the Mains Examination
- Third , the Personality Test (Interview)
Through this exam, UPSC aims to select some of the most talented engineers for technical roles in various government departments.
To ensure success, you should clearly understand the UPSC ESE 2026 exam date, vacancies, eligibility, and application process, all of which have been detailed below.
UPSC ESE 2026: Key Highlights
| Exam Name | UPSC ESE 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission |
| Posts Offered | IES Officers (Grade A) & Managerial Posts |
| Advt. No. | 02/2026 |
| Vacancies | 474 |
| Disciplines | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering |
| Exam Mode | Offline |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
| Notification Release Date | 26th September 2025 |
| Online Registration Dates | 26th September 2025 TO October 16, 2025 |
| Stages | Preliminary Exam (Objective)Mains Exam (Descriptive)Personality Test/Interview |
| Qualification | B.E./B.Tech (related disciplines) |
| Age Limit | 21-30 years |
| Application Fees | Rs. 200/- (for UR/OBC/EWS) |
| Pay Scale | Level 10 in the Pay Matrix of 7th CPC |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
UPSC ESE 2026 Important Dates
| Events | Dates |
| Official Notification Release | 26th September 2025 |
| Online Application Starts | 26th September 2025 |
| Closing Date of Online Application | 16th October 2025 |
| Prelims Admit Card Release | February 2026 |
| Prelims Exam Date | February 8, 2026 |
| Prelims Answer Key Release | February 2026 |
| Prelims Result Declaration | To Be Notified |
| Mains Exam Date | 21 June 2026 |
| Mains Result Declaration | To Be Notified |
| Personality Test | To Be Notified |
Hence , you must note that the UPSC ESE 2026 schedule clearly defines the timeline for all three stages. Moreover, planning and consistent preparation based on these dates will be key to success.
UPSC ESE 2026 Vacancy Details
The UPSC ESE 2026 Notification announced a total of 474 vacancies across the four engineering disciplines. Below is the summary:
| Section | No. of Vacancies |
| Total Vacancies 2026 | 474 |
Moreover, these vacancies are distributed among various central government departments, ensuring wide career prospects across the nation.
UPSC ESE 2026 Application Form
The UPSC ESE Application Form 2026 became available immediately after the notification release on September 26, 2025. Hence , you can now apply online through the official website, upsc.gov.in, until 16th October 2025.
Since the application process is entirely online, you are advised to complete your registration process within the stipulated time to avoid last-minute technical glitches.
Steps to Fill UPSC ESE 2026 Application Form
- Firstly , visit the official UPSC website — upsc.gov.in.
- Second , click on “Apply Online” under the Recruitment / What’s New section.
- Third , complete the One Time Registration (OTR) process by entering basic details.
- Log in using your OTR ID and password.
- Then , fill in your personal details, educational qualifications, and other relevant information.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and required documents.
- Pay the application fee as per your category.
- Moreover , review all details carefully and submit the form.
- Finally, download and print the submitted application form for future reference.
UPSC ESE 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Amount |
| UR/OBC/EWS | Rs. 200/- |
| SC/ST/PWD/Ex-Servicemen/Female | NIL |
The fee can be paid online through debit card, credit card, UPI, or net banking. Hence , the exemption ensures equal participation from all sections of society.
UPSC ESE 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the UPSC ESE 2026 eligibility criteria in terms of education, age, and nationality.
Educational Qualification
You must hold one of the following qualifications:
- First , A B.E./B.Tech degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering from a recognized university.
- Second , passed Sections A and B of the Institution of Engineers (India).
- Third , a degree or Diploma from a foreign university recognized by the Government of India.
- Fourth , if you have passed the Graduate Membership Examination of the Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers (India).
- Also , passed Associate Membership Examination Parts II & III of the Aeronautical Society of India.
- Lastly , if you have passed Graduate Membership Examination of the Institution of Electronics and Radio Engineers, London (after 1959).
Age Limit for UPSC ESE 2026
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 30 years (as of January 1, 2026)
However, age relaxation applies to reserved categories:
| Category | Age Relaxation |
| Unreserved | No Relaxation |
| OBC | 3 Years |
| SC/ST | 5 Years |
| Ex‐Servicemen | 5 Years |
| ECOs/ SSCOs | 5 Years |
| Defense Services Personnel (disabled in operations during hostilities) | 3 Years |
| Handicapped Persons | 10 Years |
Nationality Criteria
You must be:
- First , a citizen of India, or
- Second , a subject of Nepal or Bhutan, or
- Third , a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, or
- Lastly , a person of Indian origin who migrated from specified countries intending to settle in India permanently.
UPSC ESE 2026 Exam Pattern
The examination consists of three stages i.e. Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test.
1. UPSC ESE Prelims Exam Pattern 2026
| Paper Name | Subjects | Marks | Duration |
| Paper I | General Studies & Engineering Aptitude | 200 | 2 Hours |
| Paper II | Specific Engineering Discipline (Civil/Electrical/Mechanical/Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering) | 300 | 3 Hours |
| Total | 500 | ||
- The exam is an objective type and is conducted offline.
- Additionally, there is a negative marking of ⅓ marks for every wrong answer.
UPSC ESE Mains Exam Pattern 2026
| Paper Name | Discipline | Marks | Duration |
| Paper I | Civil/Electrical/ Mechanical/ Electronics & Telecommunication | 300 | 3 Hours |
| Paper II | Civil/Electrical/ Mechanical/ Electronics & Telecommunication | 300 | 3 Hours |
| Total | 600 | 6 Hours | |
The Mains Exam is descriptive and tests conceptual depth in the chosen discipline.
UPSC ESE Personality Test 2026
The Personality Test or Interview carries 200 marks. It evaluates technical expertise, leadership quality, and personality traits necessary for top government engineering roles.
UPSC ESE 2026 Salary Details
Selected candidates through the UPSC ESE 2026 will be appointed as Assistant Executive Engineers or equivalent Grade A officers under Level 10 of the 7th CPC.
| Particulars | Details |
| Pay Scale | Rs. 15,600 – Rs. 39,100/- |
| Pay Level | Level 10 |
| Grade Pay | Rs. 5,400 |
| Entry-Level Pay | Rs. 56,100 |
Apart from this, engineers enjoy additional allowances such as DA, HRA, TA, and Pension Benefits, making this one of the most lucrative government jobs in the country.
UPSC ESE 2026 Preparation Tips
This exam is renowned for its difficulty, but a disciplined approach and consistent effort can ensure success. Here are some proven preparation tips:
- Start Early: First , try to begin your preparation at least 10–12 months before the exam to cover both technical and non-technical subjects thoroughly.
- Understand the Syllabus: Second , familiarize yourself with every topic mentioned in the UPSC ESE syllabus and prioritize high-weightage areas.
- Create a Study Plan: Moreover , make a realistic daily and weekly plan that includes time for both practice and revision.
- Focus on Core Subjects: Fourth, strengthen your basics in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics Engineering.
- Use Trusted Resources: Fifth , and most important one is , always refer to standard textbooks, online lectures, and mock tests that follow UPSC’s latest exam pattern.
- Solve PYQs: Additionally, analyze previous year questions to understand trends and commonly repeated topics.
- Revise Consistently: Lastly , set weekly revision targets to retain technical concepts effectively.
Moreover, if you are looking for a structured way to achieve the goal, SPM IAS Academy offers complete guidance and personalized mentorship to help you excel in the exam.
Conclusion
The exam notification has opened doors for engineering graduates to serve the nation in prestigious technical roles. With 474 vacancies, well-defined eligibility, and a clear exam schedule, now is the best time to start focused preparation.
This exam not only tests technical mastery but also evaluates leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving , which is essential for the nation’s future engineers. So, stay dedicated, keep revising, and step confidently toward your dream.
FAQs
The UPSC ESE Notification was officially released on 26th September 2025, declaring 474 vacancies across various engineering disciplines. Hence , this notification marks the beginning of the recruitment process for one of the most prestigious engineering services in the country. Therefore , if you are interested , then you are advised to check all eligibility details before applying.
The UPSC ESE Prelims Exam is scheduled to be held on 8th February 2026, while the Mains Exam will take place on 21st June 2026. Hence , you should start your preparation early, as the ESE exam tests both technical knowledge and analytical skills in depth.
To apply for UPSC ESE , candidates must hold a B.E./B.Tech degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering from a recognized university. Final-year students awaiting results are also eligible to apply, provided they can submit proof of qualification before the Mains examination.
Candidates belonging to the General, OBC, and EWS categories are required to pay an application fee of ₹200. However, candidates from SC/ST, PwBD, and all female categories are exempted from paying any fee. Moreover, the payment can be made easily through online modes such as net banking, debit/credit cards, or UPI.
The UPSC ESE recruitment drive has announced 474 vacancies spread across four core branches , Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering. The exact distribution of posts among various departments will be detailed in the official notification.
