UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) - Engineering Services Examination Recruitment 2026

UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) Recruitment 2026 – Assistant Engineer (Group A)

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) Recruitment 2026 inviting applications for the post of Assistant Engineer (Group A). This central recruitment drive fills technical posts in various government departments and is a premier opportunity for engineering graduates seeking a prestigious government career. Below are complete details, eligibility, how to apply and the selection process for Indian job seekers.

Overview

Eligibility

Candidates planning to apply must ensure they meet the basic eligibility criteria. UPSC is strict about educational qualifications and age limits. Key points:

• Educational Qualification: Degree in Engineering (B.E. / B.Tech) or equivalent from a recognized university in a relevant discipline. Disciplines typically include Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunication — check official notification for discipline-wise vacancies.
• Age: Minimum 21 years and maximum 30 years as on the specified date. Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PwD and other categories as per government rules.
• Nationality: Citizen of India. Certain posts may allow subjects of Nepal/Bhutan or Tibetan refugees; verify notification.

Important Dates

• Last Date to Apply Online: 20 August 2026
• Application Start Date: Not specified — check UPSC official website for opening date
• Exam Dates: To be announced in UPSC schedule for ESE 2026

Application Fee

The application fee structure for UPSC ESE 2026 is as follows:

• General / OBC Male Candidates: ₹100
• SC / ST / Female / PwD / ESM: Nil (exempted)
• Fee Payment Mode: Online payment via net banking, debit/credit card, UPI or other e-payment methods available on UPSC portal.

How to Apply

• 1. Visit the official UPSC website (upsconline.nic.in) when the application window opens.
• 2. Register or login to the online application portal and create a profile if you do not already have one.
• 3. Select the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 application link and fill in personal, educational and contact details carefully.
• 4. Upload scanned copies of required documents and photograph/signature as per prescribed dimensions and file size.
• 5. Pay the application fee (if applicable) through the available online payment options and take the payment receipt.
• 6. Review the complete application form, submit it, and download/print the confirmation page for future reference.
• 7. Keep original documents handy for document verification at later stages.

Selection Process

The UPSC ESE selection is merit-based and conducted in stages. Candidates must clear each stage to progress to the next:

• Stage I — Preliminary Examination: Objective type papers (General Studies and Engineering Discipline).
• Stage II — Main Examination: Conventional (written) papers in the chosen engineering discipline.
• Stage III — Personality Test / Interview: Final assessment of candidates' suitability for service.
• Document Verification & Medical Examination: Shortlisted candidates undergo document verification and medical fitness tests before final appointment.

FAQs

• What is the last date for UPSC Engineering Services Examination (ESE) Recruitment 2026? The last date to apply online is 20 August 2026.
• What is the application fee for Union Public Service Commission? The application fee for general category candidates is ₹100; SC/ST and other exempted categories pay no fee.
• What is the age limit for Assistant Engineer (Group A)? Age must be between 21 and 30 years. Age relaxation is available as per Government rules for reserved categories.
• How many vacancies are there in UPSC ESE Recruitment 2026? There are 520 vacancies for Assistant Engineer (Group A) through ESE 2026.
• What is the selection process for Assistant Engineer (Group A)? Selection includes Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, Personality Test, followed by document verification and medical exam.

Candidates should regularly check the official UPSC website for the detailed notification, exact application opening date and discipline-wise vacancy breakup. Prepare using previous years' papers and structured study plans to improve your chances in this highly competitive exam.