How Many Attempts for UPSC Exam? UPSC Attempts Limit for General, OBC, SC/ST

“Can I take the UPSC exam once again?” - this is one of the frequently asked questions of UPSC aspirants. Here, we are going to provide the answer. Yes, you can attempt the UPSC once again even if you didn’t make it at the first attempt, but with some conditions. UPSC attempts limit differs based on your category and age. For example, if you are falling in the General reservation category, you will have maximum attempts of 6, up to 32 years of age for IAS examination. In this article, we will understand the UPSC attempts and how many attempts for the UPSC exam are allowed in detail.

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How the “Attempt” Defined in Civil Services Examination?

In the Civil Services Examination, if the candidate appears for even one paper of the UPSC Preliminary Examination, it would be counted as an attempt. Though the candidature is later cancelled or the candidate is disqualified for any reason, the act of appearing for the IAS exam is treated as an attempt. This understanding will prevent confusion before knowing the UPSC attempts limit for the IAS aspirants. 

How Many Attempts are Allowed in the UPSC Exam?

In the UPSC exam, candidates’ attempts limit varies based on the category and age. In the following table, you can clearly understand the UPSC attempts limit and plan the preparation accordingly.

Tips to Crack the UPSC Exam At Your First Attempt

Cracking the UPSC exam at your first attempt might seem ambitious and impossible, but it can be done with proper strategy and strong commitment. Here are the six tips that may let you to crack the UPSC exam at your first attempt:

• Master the Syllabus and Key Resources: The first and foremost thing is to understand the UPSC Syllabus thoroughly and choose the quality resources for your preparation. This practice effectively forms the strong foundation of your UPSC strategy.

• Create a Realistic Study Timetable: Dedicate six to eight hours daily for the UPSC preparation. Also, make sure to design the schedule that allows you to have a relaxation time. At morning, you can study subjects like

• Practice Answer Writing and Mock Tests: Practicing the answer writing regularly builds the clarity, structure and speed, allowing you to complete it in faster and better manner in the actual UPSC examination. Mock tests help you to identify the strengths and weaknesses that lets you refine your approach and prevent repeating mistakes. 

• Include Current Affairs Daily: Ensure to keep updated with national and international developments since it forms a major part of both Prelims and Mains. In your study routine, include the newspapers, monthly magazines and credible online sources and read it strategically with proper revision.

• Seek Guidance and Mentorship: With right guidance, you can confidently move in the improvement path and avoid unnecessary confusion. Mentors also provide clarity on subjects, answer writing and exam strategy which speeds up your learning and helps you to absorb valuable insights. 

Learn more: Best 10-Step UPSC Guide for Beginners 

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