The UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE)—also called Indian Engineering Services (IES)—is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit engineers into various technical posts in Group A and B central services (Railways, Power, Road & Bridge, Telecommunication, etc.). The competition is fierce because of the prestigious nature of roles and excellent career growth.
Why Aspirants Are Watching “upsc ese 2026 online form”
It signals the formal start of the recruitment cycle.
Missing the window could eliminate your chance for the year.
Any modifications (portal, fee, document requirements) could impact your application’s success.
You need to plan your prep timeline around the application dates.
So, staying updated with “upsc ese 2026 online form” isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Recent News & Updates (2025–2026)
Notification Status & Postponement
Originally, the UPSC ESE 2026 notification was expected on 17 September 2025.
However, reports now say it’s postponed, with a new date yet to be announced.
Aspirants should keep tabs on official UPSC announcements for the revised schedule.
UPSC’s New Online Portal Changes
UPSC rolled out a new online application portal (upsconline.nic.in) replacing the old One-Time Registration (OTR) module.
The new portal is structured in four modules to make application steps clearer and more manageable.
All candidates—even those who used the old OTR—must freshly register on this new system.
Vacancy Announcements & Media Reports
Several news outlets mention 400+ vacancies for ESE 2026 across engineering branches.
The notification will include a branch-wise breakdown (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunications).
Key Dates to Know (Tentative & Confirmed)
| Event | Date / Status |
| Notification release (expected) | September 17, 2025 (postponed) |
| Application window open | Expected from notification release till October 7, 2025 |
| Application window close | October 7, 2025 |
| Prelims exam date | 8 February 2026 (Sunday) |
| Mains & Interview | To be announced in notification |
These dates are subject to UPSC’s final confirmation, especially after the reported postponement.
Eligibility Criteria (2026, Expected)
Educational Qualification
Must possess an engineering degree (BE/BTech) in civil, mechanical, electrical, electronics & telecommunication, or equivalent from a recognized university.
In specific cases, a Master’s degree (e.g. in Physics, Electronics) or passing Sections A & B of the Institution of Engineers (India) may be acceptable.
Age Limit & Relaxations
Minimum age: 21 years, maximum: 30 years (as on 1 January 2026)
Relaxations:
SC/ST: +5 years
OBC: +3 years
PwBD: +10 years
Nationality & Other Conditions
Must be a citizen of India.
In certain cases, citizens of Nepal, Bhutan, Tibetan refugees (before 1962), or Persons of Indian Origin may be eligible under UPSC norms.
Application Form: What to Expect
New Registration System (replacing OTR)
Because UPSC has scrapped the old One-Time Registration (OTR), every candidate must re-register on the new UPSC portal. The new flow is modular, which may reduce errors and confusion.
Documents & Upload Guidelines
You’ll likely need:
Recent passport-size photograph
Signature
Educational certificates (degree / provisional)
Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, passport)
Category / caste certificate (if applicable)
Upload formats, sizes, and dimensions will be spelled out in the official notification.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling the upsc ese 2026 Online Form
Here’s how you might expect the application process to go:
Registration / Login
Go to the UPSC online portal (upsconline.nic.in)
Click on new “Register” (since OTR is scrapped)
Enter basic details (name, DOB, email, mobile)
You’ll receive credentials to log in
Filling Personal, Academic & Contact Details
Enter address, parent / guardian information
Educational background (year, institute, marks)
Work experience (if any)
Uploading Documents
Photo & signature (correct dimension & file format)
Educational & identity proofs
Category / caste certificate if required
Make sure the scanned documents match UPSC’s specifications in the notification.
Fee Payment & Final Submission
Pay the application fee via net banking / debit / credit card / UPI (if required)
Review all filled details carefully — once submitted, some errors might not be editable
Click “Submit”
Download and print a copy for future reference
Exam Pattern & Selection Process (for 2026)
Prelims (Objective)
Two papers:
Paper 1 – General Studies & Engineering Aptitude (200 marks)
Paper 2 – Engineering Discipline (300 marks)
Negative marking rules may apply, as in previous years.
Objective type (MCQs).
Mains (Descriptive / Conventional)
Two papers in the candidate’s engineering branch
Each carries 300 marks (total 600)
Tests depth of knowledge, problem solving, clarity & expression
Personality Test / Interview
200 marks
Evaluates overall suitability: communication, leadership, decision-making
Final merit combines performance across all three stages
Conclusion
The journey toward applying for upsc ese 2026 online form is already underway—even though the notification is delayed. While many aspirants anxiously await the official go-ahead, you can stay proactive: keep your documents ready, follow reliable sources, and refine your preparation strategy. When the portal goes live, you’ll be ready to hit “submit” confidently, without last-minute panic.
Read also: IIT Dharwad Recruitment 2025
