The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026. This year, a total of 474 vacancies are available across Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering disciplines.
The UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 is one of the most prestigious recruitment exams in India for engineers, offering high-ranking Group A and Group B positions in various government departments. Engineers aspiring for a secure and respected career in government service must not miss this opportunity.
In this detailed guide, we provide complete information about the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026, including vacancy details, eligibility criteria, important dates, application process, selection method, and FAQs.
UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 – Overview
| Exam Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 474 |
| Disciplines Covered | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunication |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Starting Date | 26 September 2025 |
| Last Date | 16 October 2025 (6:00 PM) |
| Exam Stages | Preliminary, Mains, Personality Test |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
UPSC ESE 2026 Vacancy Details
The UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 has announced a total of 474 vacancies in the following categories:
- Category I – Civil Engineering
- Category II – Mechanical Engineering
- Category III – Electrical Engineering
- Category IV – Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering
Selected candidates will be appointed to key services such as:
- Indian Railways Service of Engineers
- Central Engineering Service
- Central Water Engineering Service
- Military Engineer Services
- Border Roads Engineering Service
- Indian Defence Service of Engineers
- Indian Ordnance Factories
- Central Public Works Department (CPWD)
The exact allocation depends on merit ranking in the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 and preferences filled by candidates.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC ESE 2026
To apply for the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026, candidates must satisfy both age and educational requirements.
Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 30 years as of 1st January 2026
- Date of Birth Range: Born between 2nd January 1996 and 1st January 2005
Age Relaxation
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC: 3 years
- PwBD: 10 years
Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 must hold:
- A degree in Engineering from a recognized University/Institution.
- OR Passed Sections A & B of the Institution of Engineers (India).
- OR Equivalent degree/diploma in Engineering from a foreign institution recognized by the Government of India.
- OR Graduate Membership Examination of the Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers (India).
- OR Associate Membership Examination Parts II & III/Sections A & B of the Aeronautical Society of India.
- OR Graduate Membership Examination of the Institution of Electronics and Radio Engineers, London.
Special Eligibility:
- For Indian Naval Armament Service (Electronics): M.Sc. in Wireless Communication Electronics/Radio Physics/Radio Engineering.
- For Indian Radio Regulatory Service (Group A): M.Sc. in Physics, Electronics, or Telecommunication.
Application Fee – UPSC ESE 2026
- General / OBC / EWS: ₹200/-
- SC / ST / PwBD / Female: Exempted from fee
- Payment Mode: Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or SBI Challan
Selection Process – UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026
The UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 will follow a three-stage selection process:
1. Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
- Paper I: General Studies & Engineering Aptitude (200 marks)
- Paper II: Engineering Discipline (300 marks)
2. Main Examination (Conventional Type)
- Paper I: Engineering Discipline I (300 marks)
- Paper II: Engineering Discipline II (300 marks)
3. Personality Test (Interview)
- 200 marks
The final merit list will be prepared on the basis of marks obtained in all three stages.
How to Apply for UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026?
Candidates can apply for the UPSC ESE 2026 by following these steps:
- Visit the official UPSC website – www.upsc.gov.in.
- Go to the Important Web-Links section.
- Click on “Online Application Form”.
- Register using your email ID and mobile number.
- Fill out the application form with accurate details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and required certificates.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
Important Dates – UPSC ESE 2026
- Starting Date of Application: 26 September 2025
- Closing Date of Application: 16 October 2025 (till 6:00 PM)
- Admit Card Release (Expected): January 2026
- Prelims Exam Date: February 2026
- Mains Exam Date: June/July 2026
Why Choose UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026?
Appearing for the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 opens the gateway to some of the most prestigious government jobs in India. These jobs offer:
- High salary packages with government allowances
- Job security with pension benefits
- Technical leadership in national projects
- Opportunities to work in Indian Railways, Defence, CPWD, and other top organizations
- Social prestige and recognition as a Class I officer
Important Links
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Download Official Notification | Click Here |
| official Website | Click Here |
FAQs – UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026
Q1. How many vacancies are there in UPSC ESE 2026?
Ans: There are 474 vacancies under the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026.
Q2. What is the last date to apply online?
Ans: The last date to apply for the UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 is 16th October 2025.
Q3. Which disciplines are covered in UPSC ESE 2026?
Ans: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering.
Q4. What is the age limit for UPSC ESE 2026?
Ans: Candidates must be between 21 to 30 years as of 1st January 2026.
Q5. What is the exam pattern for UPSC ESE 2026?
Ans: The exam includes Prelims (objective), Mains (conventional), and Interview.
Q6. Can final-year students apply for UPSC ESE 2026?
Ans: Yes, final-year candidates can apply, but they must produce proof of passing before the Main Exam.
Q7. What is the salary after clearing UPSC ESE 2026?
Ans: Officers are appointed in Pay Level 10 (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500) plus allowances.
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