UPSC CSE 2026 deadline extended after portal glitches: Check new last date, step-by-step application process and key details

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has extended the last date to apply for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 following technical issues on its online application portal. Candidates now have until 27 February 2026 (6:00 pm) to complete their registration.

"The last date for submission of online application form for the Civil Services Examination, 2026 and Indian Forest Service Examination, 2026 has now been extended by three days, i.e. till 27.02.2026 (up to 6 pm)," the commission said in a public notice.

The earlier deadline was set for 24 February at 6:00 pm. However, due to slow response times and accessibility problems on the official website, upsconline.nic.in, caused by a surge in last-minute applications, the Commission decided to grant an extension.


This extension provides aspirants with a final opportunity to register for the prestigious UPSC CSE 2026 preliminary examination, which is scheduled to be conducted on 24 May 2026.

UPSC CSE 2026: Important Dates to Remember

• Date of Notification: 4 February 2026
• Last Date to Apply: 27 February 2026 (6:00 pm)
• Preliminary Examination Date: 24 May 2026

Candidates are advised not to wait until the final hours to submit their applications in order to avoid potential technical disruptions.

Why the UPSC CSE 2026 Deadline Was Extended

The Commission reported that the official portal experienced heavy traffic as thousands of candidates attempted to submit their forms before the original closing time. This resulted in slow loading speeds and login issues for many applicants.

In response, UPSC extended the deadline to ensure that all eligible candidates are able to complete the application process without technical hindrance.

UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar said that a brief technical issue on Tuesday caused access difficulties for some candidates, and it has since been resolved.

"The UPSC application portal is now functioning normally. A brief technical issue earlier today caused access difficulties for some candidates. The issue has since been resolved," he said in a post on X.

How to Apply for UPSC CSE 2026 Online

Candidates must apply through the official website, upsconline.nic.in, by following these steps:

• Visit the official UPSC online portal.
• Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) process, if not already done.
• Log in and select the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 application link.
• Fill in personal, academic and contact details carefully.
• Upload the required documents, including photograph and signature.
• Pay the application fee online, where applicable.
• Review all details and submit the form.
• Download and save the confirmation page for future reference.

Upon successful registration, a Universal Registration Number (URN) is generated. This unique number remains valid throughout a candidate’s lifetime and can be used for all future UPSC examinations. After completing the examination-specific application, an application number is issued.

Important Instructions for UPSC CSE 2026 Aspirants

Candidates must ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria before submitting their application. They are strongly advised to carefully read the Civil Services Examination Rules issued by the Department of Personnel and Training, along with the official notification.

The UPSC has clarified in its notice that the issuance of an e-Admit Card does not guarantee final acceptance of candidature. Applications will be subject to verification at later stages of the recruitment process.

For detailed information regarding eligibility, syllabus, vacancy details and examination rules, candidates should visit the official UPSC website.


Inputs from agencies