Attempts in UPSC, General, ST, SC, OBC

Know how many attempts in UPSC are allowed for General SC ST OBC categories along with eligibility criteria age limits and strategies to crack UPSC in the first attempt.

Attempts in UPSC

The UPSC attempt limit is designed to ensure fair competition and uphold the integrity of the examination process. These limits vary based on the candidate’s category, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities. By restricting the number of attempts, UPSC encourages aspirants to prepare strategically, optimizing their chances of success while maintaining a merit-based selection process within a defined timeframe.

An attempt in UPSC  is counted when a candidate appears for the Preliminary Examination, regardless of whether they qualify for the Mains. Merely submitting the application form does not count as an attempt. Since even an unsuccessful Prelims attempt is considered, careful planning and a focused preparation strategy are essential to make the most of the available opportunities.

Checkout the UPSC Mains Exam Pattern here!

Attempts in UPSC Based on Category

Understanding the eligibility criteria and the number of attempts available is the first step for aspirants. The following table provides a clear breakdown:

Category Number of Attempts Maximum Age Limit
General Category 6 32 years
OBC (Other Backward Classes) 9 35 years
SC/ST (Scheduled Castes/Tribes) Unlimited 37 years
Persons with Benchmark Disability 9 (General/OBC) 35 years
Persons with Benchmark Disability Unlimited (SC/ST) 37 years

UPSC Attempt Limits 2025

The number of attempts allowed for the UPSC exam depends on the candidate’s category:

General Category: 6 attempts
OBC: 9 attempts
SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (within the age limit)
PwBD: 9 attempts (for general and OBC PwBD candidates)
Note: An attempt is counted only when a candidate appears for the Prelims. Merely filling out the application does not count as an attempt.

Check out the article UPSC Mains Syllabus.

Eligibility Criteria for UPSC

Aspirants must fulfill the eligibility conditions set by UPSC. The following table summarizes the key requirements:

UPSC Eligibility Criteria 2025 Key Requirements

UPSC eligibility is divided into several components that every aspirant must fulfill. Below is an overview of the main criteria:

  • Educational Qualification
  • Age Limit
  • Number of Attempts
  • Nationality Requirements
  • Physical Eligibility (for specific posts like IPS)

Meeting these criteria is essential to appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2025.

Checkout the UPSC Mains Exam Pattern here!

UPSC Exam Education Qualification 2025

One of the most common queries is: Which degree is required for the UPSC exam? Here are the essential details:

  • Minimum Qualification: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory.
  • Accepted Degrees: Candidates from diverse academic backgrounds, including Arts, Science, Commerce, and Engineering, are eligible.
  • Final-Year Students: Final-year students can apply but must provide proof of degree completion before the Main Exam.
  • Percentage Requirement: There is no minimum percentage requirement. A “pass” degree from a recognized institution suffices.

This inclusivity allows aspirants from all fields to compete in the examination.

UPSC Eligibility Age Limit 2025

The age limit for UPSC 2025 is determined as of August 1, 2025. Here are the details:

  • Minimum Age: 21 years
  • Maximum Age: 32 years (for general category candidates)

Age Relaxation for Reserved Categories:

  • OBC: +3 years (up to 35 years)
  • SC/ST: +5 years (up to 37 years)
  • PwBD: +10 years (up to 42 for general, 45 for OBC, 47 for SC/ST)
  • Ex-servicemen: +5 years

These criteria ensure fairness and inclusivity for candidates from diverse backgrounds.

UPSC Exam Nationality Criteria 2025

Nationality plays a vital role in UPSC eligibility. The requirements are:

  • For IAS, IPS, and IFS: Candidates must be Indian citizens.
  • For Other Services: Citizens of India, subjects of Nepal or Bhutan, and Tibetan refugees who migrated before January 1, 1962, are eligible.

This ensures that only individuals with a strong connection to India are selected for administrative roles.

Physical Eligibility for UPSC 2025

For most UPSC posts, physical standards are not required. However, roles like IPS and IRPF have specific requirements:

  • Height Requirements:
    • Men: 165 cm (160 cm for SC/ST/OBC)
    • Women: 150 cm (145 cm for SC/ST/OBC)
  • Chest Measurement:
    • Men: Minimum 84 cm (with 5 cm expansion)
    • Women: Minimum 79 cm (with 5 cm expansion)
  • Vision Requirements:
    • Corrected vision (with glasses): 6/6 or 6/9 for the better eye; 6/12 or 6/9 for the worse eye.

Candidates with disabilities in hearing, speech, or locomotor functions may qualify under the PwBD category.

How to Crack UPSC in First Attempt

Many aspirants aim to clear the exam in their first attempt. While challenging, it is achievable with the right strategy. Here’s how:

  1. Understand the Syllabus Completely

The UPSC syllabus is vast, covering history, polity, economy, environment, and more. Before starting preparation, candidates must analyze the syllabus and past-year papers.

  1. Follow a Structured Study Plan

A well-organized study plan is essential. Divide subjects into manageable sections and set monthly, weekly, and daily goals. Include time for revision and answer writing practice.

  1. Read Standard Books and Newspapers

NCERT textbooks provide a strong foundation, while books like Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth and Spectrum’s Modern History are essential. Reading The Hindu or Indian Express regularly helps with current affairs.

  1. Make Concise Notes

Writing short, structured notes helps in revision. Focus on keywords and factual details, making them easy to recall during exams.

  1. Practice Answer Writing Regularly

Mains examination requires analytical and structured writing. Joining a test series and practicing answer writing improves speed and clarity.

  1. Revise Repeatedly

Regular revision ensures that information stays fresh. Allocate at least one day per week for revision.

  1. Attempt Mock Tests

Solving mock tests under exam conditions helps in time management and identifying weak areas.

  1. Focus on Interview Preparation

After clearing Mains, candidates must focus on the interview stage. Developing confidence, clarity, and knowledge about current issues is key.

Who Cracked UPSC in First Attempt?

Several candidates have cleared UPSC in their first attempt, proving that success is possible with the right approach. Some notable examples include:

  • Tina Dabi (AIR 1, 2015): She followed a disciplined study plan and relied on NCERT books and newspapers.
  • Roman Saini: He cleared UPSC at 22 and emphasized conceptual clarity and regular revision.

Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing for UPSC

  1. Ignoring the Syllabus: Many aspirants study without understanding the syllabus, leading to inefficient preparation.
  2. Not Practicing Answer Writing: Mains requires structured answers. Lack of practice can reduce scores.
  3. Over-Reliance on Coaching: Coaching helps, but self-study and consistent revision are crucial.
  4. Ignoring Current Affairs: Static knowledge alone is not enough. Regular newspaper reading is essential.
  5. Skipping Mock Tests: Many aspirants do not practice under exam conditions, leading to poor time management.

Understanding how many attempts in UPSC are available and preparing strategically can increase an aspirant’s chances of success. Whether aiming to clear UPSC in the first attempt or using multiple attempts, disciplined preparation is key. UPSC is a challenging journey, but with dedication and the right approach, cracking it is possible.

Attempts in UPSC FAQs

 To clear UPSC in the first attempt, follow a structured study plan, read standard books, practice answer writing, revise regularly, and stay updated with current affairs.

OBC candidates get nine attempts, with an upper age limit of 35 years.

Yes, SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts until they reach the age limit of 37 years.

Notable examples include Tina Dabi (AIR 1, 2015), Roman Saini.

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