How Many Times Can We Attempt the UPSC Exam?

The question of “How many times can we attempt the UPSC exam” is one of the most common doubts among aspirants. Under the UPSC Civil Services Examination rules, the number of attempts varies by category. In general, unreserved (General) category candidates are allowed up to 6 attempts (till age 32). Candidates from the OBC category get up to 9 attempts (till age 35), while those from SC/ST categories have no fixed attempt limit and can keep appearing until the upper age limit of 37 years. Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) receive 9 attempts if General/OBC (with age relaxation up to 42 years) and unlimited attempts if SC/ST (also up to about 42 years). EWS candidates follow the same rules as the General category.

UPSC Attempts for General (UR) & EWS Category

General category (sometimes called “Unreserved”) and EWS candidates can attempt the UPSC exam a maximum of six times. The upper age limit for General and EWS aspirants is 32 years. This means if a General/EWS candidate reaches 32 years of age, they become ineligible to appear, regardless of attempts remaining. It’s crucial for such candidates to plan their six attempts wisely within the eligible age window.

UPSC Attempts for OBC Category Candidates

OBC candidates are allowed up to nine attempts for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, with an upper age limit of 35 years. The increased number of attempts (and a 3-year age relaxation) for OBC aspirants provides more opportunities to succeed compared to the General category. However, even with additional chances, strategic preparation is important so that these attempts are not wasted.

UPSC Attempts for SC/ST Category Candidates

Candidates belonging to Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes have unlimited attempts until they reach 37 years of age. In other words, there is no specific maximum number of times an SC/ST candidate can take the UPSC exam before 37. This policy is designed to provide equitable opportunity, but the age cap of 37 years still applies. SC/ST aspirants should focus on consistent improvement with each attempt, since the number of tries isn’t a limiting factor – time (age) is.

UPSC Attempts for PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) Candidates

Persons with Benchmark Disabilities enjoy relaxed attempt limits and age limits. Generally, PwBD candidates get 9 attempts with an upper age limit of 42 years (this typically applies to General/OBC PwBD). For PwBD candidates belonging to SC/ST categories, attempts are unlimited up to about 42 years of age. These relaxations ensure that aspirants with disabilities have a fair chance, but they often overlap with the candidate’s community category (for example, an OBC PwBD candidate gets 9 attempts and age up to 42, while an SC/ST PwBD candidate has no set attempt limit up to 42). It’s important for PwBD aspirants to be aware of both their category’s benefits and the need to utilize the extra attempts effectively.

Tips to Make the Most of Your UPSC Attempts

Given the limited number of chances, candidates should adopt a smart strategy for each attempt. It’s recommended to start preparations early and plan each attempt meticulously – treat each one as if it could be the last. Key strategies include maintaining strong dedication and focus, following an effective study plan, taking regular mock tests, and learning from each previous attempt. Time management is crucial: cover the full syllabus systematically and prioritize high-weightage topics. Using every attempt as a learning experience will help improve performance progressively. Remember, every attempt is an opportunity to grow, so analyze past mistakes and refine your approach continuously.

Latest Updates on UPSC Attempt Limits (2025)

As of 2025, there have been no recent changes in the UPSC attempt limits or age criteria for any category since the last major revision in 2014 (when the General category’s attempt limit was increased from 4 to 6). Periodically, there are rumors or discussions about altering the age limit or number of attempts, but no official changes have been implemented in recent years. Aspirants should stay updated through official UPSC notifications, but for now the category-wise attempt rules and age limits remain the same. Always refer to the latest UPSC notification for confirmation of eligibility criteria for the exam year in question

FAQs on How Many Times Can We Attempt the UPSC Exam

Ques: How many times can we attempt the UPSC exam as a General category candidate?

Ques: How many attempts are allowed for OBC candidates in the UPSC exam?

Ques: How many times can SC/ST candidates attempt the UPSC exam?

Ques: What is the attempt limit for EWS candidates in the UPSC exam?

Ques: How many UPSC attempts are allowed for PwBD candidates?

Ques: Do UPSC attempts get counted if I only apply but don’t appear for the exam?

Ques: Can extra attempts be granted in UPSC in special circumstances?