UPSC CSE 2026: New Rules for In-Service Candidates & Face Authentication

• UPSC has clarified new attempt rules for in-service candidates appearing for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026, aiming to streamline the process and prevent repeated appearances by already-appointed officers.
• IAS and IFS officers are ineligible to appear for CSE 2026, while IPS officers cannot opt for IPS again but can be considered for other services.
• A one-time exemption allows IPS or Central Service Group ‘A’ officers from CSE 2026 to appear for CSE 2027 for rank improvement, provided they obtain an exemption from training and join only the Foundation Course.
• Candidates from CSE 2025 or earlier have a one-time chance to appear in CSE 2026 or 2027 without resigning; resignation is mandatory for CSE 2028 onwards.
• Other major changes include mandatory AI-based face authentication at exam centers, preferred center allotment for PwBD candidates, and provisional answer keys post-Prelims with objection facility.