“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 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.
| Category | Maximum Attempts | Maximum Age Limit |
| General (including EWS) | 6 attempts | Up to 32 years |
| OBC | 9 attempts | Up to 35 years |
| SC/ST | Unlimited attempts | Up to 37 years |
| PwBD (General/OBC) | 9 attempts | Up to 42 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | Unlimited attempts | Up to 42 years |
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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FAQs on How Many Attempts for UPSC Exam
1. How many attempts are allowed for the UPSC Civil Services Exam?
The attempts vary by category:
– General/EWS: 6 attempts (up to 32 years)
– OBC: 9 attempts (up to 35 years)
– SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (up to 37 years)
– PwBD (General/OBC): 9 attempts (up to 42 years)
– PwBD (SC/ST): Unlimited attempts (up to 42 years)
2. What is considered an “attempt” in the UPSC exam?
If a candidate appears for even one paper of the UPSC Prelims, it is counted as one attempt, even if the candidature is later cancelled or the candidate is disqualified.
3. Does applying for UPSC prelims count as an attempt?
No. Only appearing in at least one paper of the Prelims counts as an attempt. Merely registering or submitting the application does not count.
4. Can I attempt the UPSC exam again if I fail in my first attempt?
Yes, you can attempt the exam again as long as you haven’t crossed your category-wise attempt limit or age limit.
5. What happens if someone hides their actual number of UPSC attempts?
If a candidate conceals or provides false information about attempts, the UPSC:
– Cancels the candidature for that examination
– Debars them for 10 years from all future UPSC exams
– May take criminal action, as per CSE Rules
6. Is there any relaxation in attempts for EWS candidates?
No separate relaxation exists. EWS candidates fall under the same limit as General category – 6 attempts up to 32 years.
7. How can I increase my chances of clearing UPSC in the first attempt?
Focus on:
– Mastering the syllabus
– A realistic study timetable
– Answer-writing practice
– Regular mock tests
– Daily current affairs
– Proper guidance or mentorship
8. Are there unlimited attempts for SC/ST candidates?
Yes, SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts, but only until the upper age limit of 37 years (42 years for PwBD SC/ST).
9. Which is the Best IAS Coaching in Chennai for Better UPSC Preparation?
KingMakers is recognized as the best IAS coaching in Chennai for its expert training, extensive mock tests, result-oriented study plans, and continuous performance tracking. It will allow even beginners to reach the highest level of mastery to achieve their IAS dreams.