How many attempts are there for clearing the UPSC exams?

The number of attempts allowed for clearing the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Civil Services Examination (CSE) varies depending on the category of the candidate. Here's a breakdown of the maximum number of attempts allowed:

1. General Category Candidates: General category candidates can attempt the UPSC exam a maximum of six times. However, there is an age limit for appearing in the exam, which is 32 years for the General category candidates.

2. OBC (Other Backward Classes) Candidates: OBC candidates can attempt the UPSC exam a maximum of nine times. The age limit for OBC candidates is 35 years.

3. SC/ST (Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe) Candidates: SC/ST candidates can attempt the UPSC exam an unlimited number of times until they reach the maximum age limit. The age limit for SC/ST candidates is 37 years.

4. Physically Handicapped (PH) Candidates: PH candidates belonging to the General and OBC categories can attempt the UPSC exam a maximum of nine times, while there is no restriction on the number of attempts for PH candidates belonging to the SC/ST category.

It's important to note that the number of attempts is counted from the year when the candidate first appears in the Preliminary Examination (Prelims) of the UPSC CSE. Additionally, attempting any one of the papers in the Prelims is considered an attempt.

Candidates should carefully consider their eligibility criteria, including the number of attempts allowed, before applying for the UPSC exam. Once they exhaust their maximum number of attempts or reach the upper age limit, they become ineligible to appear for the exam again, unless they belong to the SC/ST category.