You might be interested in:
Hey there, aspiring engineers! If you're gearing up for a prestigious career in government engineering services, the wait is over. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has just dropped the official notification for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026. Dated September 26, 2025, this is your gateway to some of the top Group A/B posts in various ministries and departments. As someone who's followed UPSC exams closely (and maybe even daydreamed about cracking one myself), I'm excited to break it down for you in this post. Let's dive into the key details, eligibility, application process, and tips to get you started.
What's New This Year?
UPSC is rolling out a brand-new Online Application Portal for registrations. Say goodbye to the old One Time Registration (OTR) system – everything's fresh now! The portal has four modules:
- Account creation
- Universal Registration (generating a Universal Registration Number or URN)
- Common Application Form (CAF)
- Exam-specific form
You'll need to create an account on [https://upsconline.nic.in](https://upsconline.nic.in), fill in your details, and upload documents. Pro tip: Use your Aadhaar Card for seamless verification – it'll make things effortless. Detailed instructions are on the portal's homepage, so read them before starting to avoid any hiccups.
Also, note that once you submit, there's no withdrawal or changes allowed. Double-check everything!
Exam Overview
The ESE 2026 is for recruitment to engineering posts in four categories:
- Category I: Civil Engineering
- Category II: Mechanical Engineering
- Category III: Electrical Engineering
- Category IV: Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering
Vacancies: Approximately 474, including 26 for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD). This includes reservations for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PwBD categories. The exact number could change, but it's a solid opportunity
The exam has three stages:
1. Preliminary/Stage-I: Objective type, scheduled for February 8, 2026
2. Main/Stage-II: Conventional type.
3. Personality Test/Interview
Participating services include gems like Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS), Central Engineering Service, Indian Naval Material Management Service, and more. Check the full list in the notification for your stream-specific posts.
Eligibility Criteria
Before you apply, ensure you tick all the boxes:
- Nationality: Indian citizen, or subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, Tibetan refugees (pre-1962), or persons of Indian origin from specified countries.
- Age Limit: 21 to 30 years as on January 1, 2026 (born between January 2, 1996, and January 1, 2005).
- Relaxations: Up to 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC, 3-5 years for ex-servicemen, 10 years for PwBD, and more for government servants/departmental candidates.
- Educational Qualification: A degree in Engineering from a recognized university (or equivalent). Final-year students can apply provisionally.
- PwBD Notes: Blind candidates aren't eligible as no vacancies are earmarked. Low Vision candidates can apply only under Electronics & Telecom. Functional classifications are detailed in the rules.
Physical and medical standards apply, so review them carefully.
How to Apply
- Application Window: September 26, 2025, to October 16, 2025 (till 6:00 PM).
- Apply only via [www.upsconline.nic.in](www.upsconline.nic.in). No offline mode.
- Upload a recent photo (not older than 10 days from application start), signature, and Photo ID (Aadhaar/Voter/PAN/Passport/Driving License).
- Fee: ₹200 for most candidates (exempt for females/SC/ST/PwBD).
- Helpline: 011-24041001 (10 AM to 5:30 PM on working days during the window).
Your e-Admit Card will be available on the UPSC site a week before the exam. No physical copies sent.
Exam Centers
Preliminary centers include major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and more (full list in the notification). Mains are in fewer cities like Ahmedabad, Delhi, Kolkata, etc. Centers are allotted first-come-first-served, with caps in most places except Chennai, Dispur, Kolkata, and Nagpur. Apply early to get your preferred spot!
Important Instructions and Tips
- Negative Marking: Yes, in objective papers – so guess wisely.
- Prohibited Items: No mobiles, smartwatches, or electronics in the exam hall. Violate this, and face a ban.
- Question Paper Representations: Use the QPRep portal within 7 days post-exam for any issues.
- Photograph Rules: 3/4th face coverage, match your appearance across stages (beard, specs, etc.).
- Arrive 30 minutes early – no late entries.
For PwBD: 26 vacancies break down as 15 for Locomotor Disability, 7 for Hard of Hearing, 1 for Low Vision, and 3 for SLD/MD.
Preparation Tips from a Blogger's Perspective
If you're new to ESE, focus on building a strong foundation in your core subjects. The prelims are objective, so practice MCQs from previous years. For mains, hone your descriptive writing skills. Join online forums or coaching if needed, but self-study works wonders too.
Remember, this exam isn't just about knowledge – it's about strategy. Stay updated via the UPSC website, and don't forget to verify your eligibility with original docs later.
Final Thoughts
ESE 2026 is a golden ticket to a stable, impactful career in engineering services. With 474 vacancies, competition will be fierce, but preparation is key. If you're eligible, don't miss the October 16 deadline!
#UPSC #ESE2026 #EngineeringJobs #GovernmentExams
0 comment