UPSC ESE 2026 Registration Now Open: Apply Before October 16, 2025

The Union Public Service Commission has launched the registration process for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026. Candidates can apply until October 16, 2025, for a total of 474 positions. Eligibility includes holding an engineering degree and meeting age requirements. The application fee is ₹200, with exemptions for certain categories. The preliminary exam is set for February 8, 2026. A dedicated helpline is available for candidates needing assistance during the application process. Read on for more details.

By Ambika Singh Sep 30, 2025, 12:10 IST

UPSC ESE Registration 2026 Details

UPSC ESE Registration 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has initiated the online application process for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026. Eligible candidates can submit their applications via the official UPSC website or upsconline.nic.in. The last date to apply is October 16, 2025, with a total of 474 vacancies available through this recruitment.

Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the Engineering Services Examination 2026, candidates must possess an engineering degree from a university recognized by an Act of the Central or State Legislature in India. Degrees from institutions established by an Act of Parliament or recognized under Section 3 of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956, are also acceptable.

As for the age requirements, applicants must be between 21 and 30 years old as of January 1, 2026. This means candidates should have been born between January 2, 1996, and January 1, 2005.

Application Fee:
The application fee is set at ₹200 for all candidates. However, female candidates, as well as those belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Persons with Disabilities (PwBD), are exempt from this fee, making the application process more accessible.

Payment can be made either by cash at any State Bank of India branch or online using Visa/Master/RuPay credit/debit cards, UPI, or internet banking.

Preliminary Exam Date:
The preliminary examination for the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 is scheduled for February 8, 2026. Candidates will have the option to take this exam at various locations nationwide.

The selection process consists of three phases: the Preliminary exam, the Main exam, and the Personality Test (Interview). The final results will be based on the scores from all three stages.

Candidate Support:
UPSC has established a helpline to assist candidates throughout the application process. For inquiries regarding application submission, fee payment, document uploads, or other exam-related questions, candidates can reach out at 011-24041001.

This helpline will be operational on all working days from September 26, 2025, to October 16, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM.