UPSC Engineering Services Exam 2026: Application Process Now Open

The UPSC has announced the Engineering Services Exam (ESE) for 2026, with applications now open. This opportunity is available for engineering graduates and final-year students. The selection process includes a Preliminary exam, Mains exam, and an interview. Candidates must meet age requirements and pay a nominal fee, with exemptions for certain groups. The exam structure consists of two papers in the Preliminary stage, followed by in-depth questions in the Mains. Interested candidates can apply online through the UPSC's official website. Read on for detailed application steps and eligibility criteria.

By Ambika Singh Oct 2, 2025, 10:14 IST

UPSC Engineering Services Exam 2026 Notification Released

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced the commencement of the Engineering Services Exam (ESE) for 2026, with the application process now underway.

This is excellent news for engineering graduates and job seekers aiming for government positions. Interested individuals can submit their applications online through the UPSC's official portal at upsconline.nic.in.

Eligibility for this exam requires candidates to hold a graduate degree in engineering. Those in their final year may also apply, provided they present their degree certificate before the Mains examination or interview.

Age Requirements

Applicants must be a minimum of 21 years old and not exceed 30 years of age. However, candidates belonging to reserved categories will receive age relaxation in accordance with government regulations.

Selection Procedure

The selection process for the UPSC Engineering Services Examination comprises three phases:

1. **Preliminary Exam**: This stage includes objective-type questions.

2. **Mains Exam**: This phase consists of detailed subject-specific questions.

3. **Interview**: Candidates who successfully clear the first two stages will be invited for a personality test.

Only those who pass all three stages will be appointed.

Application Fees

Candidates from the General and OBC categories are required to pay an application fee of ₹200. Women candidates, as well as those from SC, ST, and differently-abled backgrounds, are exempt from this fee. Payments can only be made online.

Exam Structure

The Preliminary Exam will consist of two papers: the first focusing on general studies and engineering aptitude, while the second will be dedicated to the candidate's specific engineering discipline. The Mains Exam will feature in-depth questions related to the subjects. Following this, an interview will be conducted.

Steps to Apply

To apply, candidates should follow these steps:

1. Visit upsconline.nic.in.

2. Navigate to the "Examination Notices" section.

3. Click on the link for "Engineering Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2026."