The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026, aiming to recruit candidates for 474 vacancies in various engineering disciplines. This examination offers a prestigious opportunity for engineering graduates to serve in key positions within the Government of India.
Key Dates
- Notification Release Date: September 26, 2025
- Online Application Start Date: September 26, 2025
- Online Application Last Date: October 16, 2025
- Preliminary Examination Date: February 8, 2026
- Main Examination Date: June 21, 2026
Vacancy Details
The 474 vacancies are distributed across four major engineering disciplines:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering
Specific vacancy numbers for each discipline are detailed in the official notification.
Eligibility Criteria
Age Limit:
- Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years of age as of January 1, 2026.
- Age relaxations are applicable for reserved categories as per government norms.
Educational Qualification:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (B.E./B.Tech) in the relevant discipline from a recognized university.
- Candidates who have appeared for the final year examination and are awaiting results can also apply.
Application Process
- Visit the Official Website: Go to https://upsconline.nic.in.
- Register: Create a new account using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill the Application Form: Complete the online application with accurate personal and educational details.
- Upload Documents: Attach scanned copies of required documents, including educational certificates and photographs.
- Pay Application Fee: The application fee is ₹200 for General/OBC/EWS candidates. SC/ST/PwBD and female candidates are exempted from the application fee.
- Submit Application: Review all details and submit the application before the deadline.
Examination Pattern
Preliminary Examination:
- Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)
- Type: Objective Type Questions
- Duration: 2 papers, each of 2 hours
- Subjects:
- Paper I: General Studies and Engineering Aptitude
- Paper II: Engineering Discipline-Specific
Main Examination:
- Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)
- Type: Descriptive Type Questions
- Duration: 2 papers, each of 3 hours
- Subjects: Detailed engineering discipline-specific papers
Personality Test (Interview):
- Marks: 200
- Focus: Assessing the candidate’s overall suitability for a career in public services.
Salary and Benefits
Selected candidates will be appointed to Group A or Group B services under the Government of India. The salary will be as per the 7th Central Pay Commission, with additional allowances and benefits applicable as per government rules.
Important Links
FAQs
1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC ESE 2026?
The last date to apply online is October 16, 2025.
2. Can final year students apply for UPSC ESE 2026?
Yes, candidates who have appeared for the final year examination and are awaiting results can also apply.
3. Is there any age relaxation for reserved categories?
Yes, age relaxations are applicable as per government norms.
4. How can I prepare for UPSC ESE 2026?
Candidates should refer to the official syllabus and previous years’ question papers. Joining coaching institutes or online platforms offering mock tests and study materials can also be beneficial.
5. Where can I find the official notification?
The official notification is available on the UPSC official website.
Conclusion
The UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 presents a significant opportunity for engineering graduates to embark on a prestigious career in the Indian government. With 474 vacancies across various disciplines, candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline and prepare diligently for the examination.