The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026. This prestigious exam is conducted annually to recruit engineers in various central government departments for technical and managerial roles. Eligible candidates can apply online at upsconline.nic.in and should carefully note the eligibility criteria, exam dates, and salary structure before applying.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the UPSC ESE 2026 recruitment, including eligibility, application process, selection procedure, salary details, and important dates.
About UPSC Engineering Services Examination
The Engineering Services Examination (ESE), also known as the Indian Engineering Services (IES) exam, is one of the most competitive examinations in India. Conducted by UPSC, it recruits engineers for key positions in the following departments:
- Indian Railways
- Central Engineering Services
- Indian Defense Services
- Central Public Works Department (CPWD)
- Other central government technical departments
The exam attracts candidates from disciplines including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering. Success in this exam leads to high-profile technical positions with attractive pay and career growth.
Key Highlights of UPSC ESE Recruitment 2026
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Total Vacancies | To be notified |
| Eligibility | BE/B.Tech in relevant engineering discipline |
| Exam Mode | Online / Offline (as per UPSC norms) |
| Job Location | Across India |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (BE/B.Tech) in one of the following disciplines:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering
- Candidates in their final year of engineering are also eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of degree completion by the joining date.
Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 30 years
- Age relaxation is applicable as per government norms:
- OBC – 3 years
- SC/ST – 5 years
- PwBD – 10 years
- Government servants and ex-servicemen may get additional relaxation as per rules.
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Engineering Services Examination 2026 |
| Vacancies | To be notified |
| Qualification | BE/B.Tech in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics & Telecom |
| Age Limit | 21–30 years (with relaxation as per rules) |
| Salary | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 + allowances |
| Application Mode | Online |
Salary and Perks
Engineers selected through UPSC ESE 2026 are appointed in Group A services of central government departments.
- Pay Scale: Level 10 – ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500 per month under 7th CPC
- Additional Allowances:
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Travel Allowance (TA)
- Other departmental allowances depending on posting
- Opportunities for promotions and career growth within the central government technical services.
Selection Process
The selection process for UPSC ESE 2026 is conducted in three stages:
- Preliminary Examination (Stage I):
- Objective type questions to test engineering fundamentals and general studies.
- Acts as a screening exam for the Main stage.
- Mains Examination (Stage II):
- Conventional paper-based exam testing in-depth engineering knowledge in the chosen discipline.
- Personality Test / Interview (Stage III):
- Assess the candidate’s suitability, decision-making ability, communication skills, and professional knowledge.
Candidates must clear each stage to be eligible for final appointment.
Application Process – How to Apply Online
Interested candidates must submit their applications online at upsconline.nic.in. The step-by-step procedure is as follows:
- Visit the official UPSC website at upsconline.nic.in.
- Click on the “Apply Online for ESE 2026” link.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in the personal, academic, and professional details accurately.
- Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, and required documents.
- Pay the application fee via online payment gateway.
- Submit the application and download the confirmation slip for future reference.
Application Fee
- General/OBC/EWS: ₹200
- SC/ST/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen: Exempted from application fee
- Payment can be made online through net banking, debit/credit card, or UPI.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | September 2025 |
| Online Application Start | September 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | October 2025 (tentative) |
| Preliminary Exam | January 2026 (tentative) |
| Main Exam | April 2026 (tentative) |
| Personality Test | July 2026 (tentative) |
Why Apply for UPSC ESE 2026?
- Prestigious central government technical service with high-level responsibilities.
- Opportunity to work in strategic departments like Indian Railways, CPWD, and Defense Services.
- Attractive salary and benefits under the 7th Pay Commission.
- Structured career growth with promotions and leadership opportunities.
- Challenging and intellectually rewarding career for engineers.
Conclusion
The UPSC ESE 2026 recruitment is a golden opportunity for engineering graduates aspiring to join prestigious central government technical services. With high-profile roles, excellent pay, and structured career growth, this examination provides both professional recognition and financial security. Eligible candidates must apply online at upsconline.nic.in and prepare thoroughly for the multi-stage selection process to secure a career in central engineering services.
FAQs
Q1. What is the eligibility for UPSC ESE 2026?
Candidates must have a BE/B.Tech degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering.
Q2. What is the salary for ESE officers?
Selected candidates will receive ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month plus allowances under 7th CPC.
Q3. How can I apply for UPSC ESE 2026?
Applications can be submitted online at upsconline.nic.in before the last date.