BharatNotes An attempt is counted only when a candidate actually sits in the exam hall and appears in at least one paper of the Preliminary Examination; merely applying or downloading the admit card does not count.
This is one of the most misunderstood rules in UPSC CSE eligibility. The official rule is clear:
An attempt IS counted when: A candidate actually appears in at least one paper of the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination on exam day. Even appearing in only Paper I (GS) or only Paper II (CSAT) is sufficient to count as a used attempt. Disqualification or cancellation of candidature after appearing still counts as a used attempt.
An attempt is NOT counted when: A candidate applies online, pays the fee, downloads the admit card, but does not enter the exam hall on the day of the Preliminary Examination.
Category-wise attempt limits (as per UPSC notifications):
| Category | Maximum Attempts |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 6 attempts |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 9 attempts |
| SC / ST | Unlimited (until maximum age) |
| PwBD — General/EWS | 9 attempts |
| PwBD — OBC | 9 attempts |
| PwBD — SC/ST | Unlimited (until maximum age) |
Practical implication: If you are unsure about your preparation level, you can withdraw from the attempt by simply not appearing on exam day — your attempt count is preserved. Verify the rule in the specific year's notification at upsc.gov.in, as rules can be updated.
