Overview
- Applications are open online through February 24, with the Preliminary exam on May 24 and the Main exam from August 21.
- Serving IAS or IFS officers are ineligible to appear, including those appointed after prelims but before mains or results.
- Candidates already selected to the IPS cannot opt for or be allotted the IPS again through CSE 2026.
- Those allotted IPS or a Central Service Group A in 2026 may make a one-time reattempt in 2027 only if granted exemption from joining the foundation course.
- Face authentication and live photo capture with Aadhaar-linked verification are mandated, as attempt limits remain at 6 for UR, 9 for OBC/PwBD, and unlimited for SC/ST.