UPSC Age Limit 2025 – Complete Guide
UPSC Age Limit 2025:The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the prestigious Civil Services Examination (CSE) every year to recruit candidates for IAS, IPS, IFS, and other Group A & B services. One of the most frequently asked questions among aspirants is – What is the UPSC age limit?
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the UPSC age limit 2025, including category-wise relaxation, number of attempts, and FAQs to help aspirants plan their preparation effectively.
UPSC Age Limit 2025 Overview
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age | Attempts |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR/EWS) | 21 years | 32 years | 6 |
| OBC | 21 years | 35 years | 9 |
| SC/ST | 21 years | 37 years | Unlimited (till age limit) |
| PwBD (General) | 21 years | 42 years | 9 |
| PwBD (OBC) | 21 years | 45 years | 9 |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 21 years | 47 years | Unlimited |
Age is calculated as on 1st August of the exam year. For UPSC 2025, the candidate must be 21 years old by 1st August 2025.
UPSC Age Limit for General Category
- Minimum age: 21 years
- Maximum age: 32 years
- Number of attempts: 6
UPSC Age Limit for OBC Candidates
- Relaxation: 3 years
- Maximum age: 35 years
- Attempts allowed: 9
UPSC Age Limit for SC/ST Candidates
- Relaxation: 5 years
- Maximum age: 37 years
- Attempts: Unlimited (till age limit is crossed)
UPSC Age Limit for EWS Candidates
- Treated same as General Category
- Minimum age: 21 years
- Maximum age: 32 years
- Attempts: 6
UPSC Age Limit for PwBD Candidates
- PwBD General: 42 years
- PwBD OBC: 45 years
- PwBD SC/ST: 47 years
- Attempts: Vary according to category
Other Important UPSC Eligibility Conditions
- Educational Qualification – Bachelor’s degree in any discipline.
- Nationality – Indian citizen for IAS/IPS/IFS.
- Number of Attempts – As per category, not exceeding age limit.
UPSC Attempts vs Age Limit – Key Difference
- Even if a candidate has attempts left, they cannot apply beyond the upper age limit.
- Example: A General candidate with 3 attempts left but above 32 years cannot apply.
Tips to Maximize Your UPSC Journey
- Start early (final year of graduation).
- Balance college & preparation.
- Plan strategically according to age window.
- Avoid wasting attempts in unprepared stages.
FAQs on UPSC Age Limit
Q1: What is the minimum age to appear for UPSC?
👉 21 years (as on 1st August of exam year).
Q2: What is the UPSC upper age limit for OBC?
👉 35 years with 9 attempts.
Q3: Can a 12th pass apply for UPSC?
👉 No, graduation is mandatory.
Q4: Is there unlimited attempts for SC/ST in UPSC?
👉 Yes, until the maximum age limit of 37 years.
Q5: What is the UPSC age limit for IAS in 2025?
👉 General: 32 years, OBC: 35 years, SC/ST: 37 years.