To appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination you must be an Indian citizen, aged 21–32 (general category), and hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
UPSC Eligibility: The Three Conditions
1. Nationality
For IAS, IPS and IFS you must be a citizen of India. For other services, citizens of Nepal/Bhutan and certain migrants are also eligible (details in the official notification).
2. Age Limit
21 to 32 years for the general category (as on 1st August of the exam year), with relaxation up to 35 for OBC, 37 for SC/ST, and further relaxation for PwBD candidates. Read our detailed UPSC age limit guide.
3. Educational Qualification
A degree in any subject — there is no “preferred” degree for UPSC. Engineers, doctors, commerce and arts graduates all compete on equal footing. Candidates in their final year of graduation can also apply, provided they submit proof of passing when asked (usually at the Mains detailed application stage).
Common Myths
- “Only toppers can apply.” False — there is no minimum percentage requirement. A 50% graduate is as eligible as a 95% one.
- “You need to be from a famous college.” False — the university only needs to be recognised.
- “Hindi-medium students can’t qualify.” False — the exam is offered in English and Hindi (and Mains answers can be written in any Eighth Schedule language).