UPSC Engineering Services (ESE): syllabus, exam pattern & eligibility

UPSC Engineering Services Examination. Recruitment to Group A/B engineering services (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, E&T)

Category

Civil Services & Defence

Conducted by

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

Level

Recruitment

Frequency

Once a year

Mode

Pen & paper (prelims OMR, mains descriptive)

Languages

English

Eligibility

• Education: Engineering degree (B.E./B.Tech) or equivalent; discipline-specific
• Age: 21-30 (relaxations)
• Attempts: Per UPSC rules (verify)
• Nationality: Indian (+ conditions)

Exam pattern

Prelims Paper I (GS & Engineering Aptitude)

120 min · 200 marks

Prelims Paper II (Discipline)

180 min · 300 marks

Mains Paper I + II (Discipline conventional)

180 min · 600 marks

Syllabus

Prelims Paper I

General studies, Engineering aptitude (maths, logic, basics)

Discipline papers

Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunication (each a large syllabus)

Important dates (ESE 2026)

• Prelims: 2026-02-08
• Mains: 2026-06-21

Selection process

Prelims -> Mains -> Personality Test

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Frequently asked questions

What is UPSC Engineering Services (ESE)?

UPSC Engineering Services (ESE) stands for UPSC Engineering Services Examination. Recruitment to Group A/B engineering services (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, E&T). It is conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Level: Recruitment.

Who is eligible for UPSC Engineering Services (ESE)?

Education: Engineering degree (B.E./B.Tech) or equivalent; discipline-specific. Age limit: 21-30 (relaxations). Attempts: Per UPSC rules (verify). Nationality: Indian (+ conditions).

What is the exam pattern of UPSC Engineering Services (ESE)?

Prelims Paper I (GS & Engineering Aptitude): 120 minutes, 200 marks. Prelims Paper II (Discipline): 180 minutes, 300 marks. Mains Paper I + II (Discipline conventional): 180 minutes, 600 marks. Mode: Pen & paper (prelims OMR, mains descriptive).

How often is UPSC Engineering Services (ESE) held?

Once a year.

When is UPSC Engineering Services (ESE) held?

ESE 2026 cycle: Prelims 2026-02-08; Mains 2026-06-21.

How are candidates selected through UPSC Engineering Services (ESE)?

Prelims -> Mains -> Personality Test.

Compiled from public sources, last checked 2026-09-25. Dates, fees and rules change, so confirm with the official website before you apply.