The UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 Exam Timetable has been officially released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on its website upsc.gov.in. Candidates aspiring for the Engineering Services (Preliminary) Exam 2026 can now check the detailed exam schedule, paper timings, and marking pattern. The examination, highly relevant for engineering graduates across India, aims to recruit engineers for key central government positions. The UPSC ESE 2026 Prelims will be conducted on February 8, 2026, in two sessions across multiple centers in India and abroad.
UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 Exam Date and Schedule
As per the UPSC notification, the Engineering Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026 will take place on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
- Paper I (General Studies & Engineering Aptitude): 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
- Paper II (Engineering Discipline): 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
The examination will be conducted for a total of 500 marks, comprising 200 marks for Paper I and 300 marks for Paper II. Candidates must note that negative marking will be applicable for incorrect responses in both papers.
Quick Reference Summary Table
| Exam Detail | Description |
| Exam Name | UPSC Engineering Services (Preliminary) Exam 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Date | February 8, 2026 |
| Session 1 (Paper I) | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Session 2 (Paper II) | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Total Marks | 500 (Paper I – 200, Paper II – 300) |
| Negative Marking | Applicable |
| Total Vacancies | 474 Posts |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
| Registration Dates | September 26 – October 16, 2025 |
How to Download UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 Exam Timetable PDF
Candidates can follow these simple steps to access the timetable:
- Visit the official website upsc.gov.in.
- Click on the link titled “UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 Exam Timetable.”
- A PDF file will open displaying the complete exam schedule.
- Download the PDF and take a printout for reference.
Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
The UPSC ESE Preliminary Examination consists of two objective-type papers:
- Paper I: General Studies and Engineering Aptitude (200 marks)
- Paper II: Engineering Discipline-specific (300 marks)
Candidates must manage their time effectively as both papers test analytical ability, technical understanding, and general awareness. A penalty for wrong answers will be imposed to ensure fairness in evaluation.
Key Points to Remember for UPSC ESE Prelims 2026
- Candidates should report to the examination venue at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.
- Electronic devices, calculators, and mobile phones are strictly prohibited.
- Carry a valid photo ID proof and admit card to the center.
- Answer sheets must be filled carefully as per the UPSC guidelines to avoid disqualification.
Official Notification and Recruitment Details
This recruitment drive by the Union Public Service Commission aims to fill 474 engineering positions across civil, mechanical, electrical, and electronics streams in various central government departments. The registration window was open from September 26 to October 16, 2025. For the most accurate updates, candidates should refer only to the official UPSC website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| When will the UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 be conducted? |
| The UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 will be held on February 8, 2026. |
| What are the timings for UPSC ESE Prelims 2026? |
| Paper I is from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM, and Paper II from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. |
| How many papers are there in UPSC ESE Prelims? |
| There are two papers – Paper I (General Studies) and Paper II (Engineering Discipline). |
| Is there negative marking in UPSC ESE Prelims? |
| Yes, negative marking applies for wrong answers in objective-type questions. |
| How many vacancies are available under UPSC ESE 2026? |
| A total of 474 posts are available across various engineering categories. |
| Where can I download the UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 timetable PDF? |
| The timetable can be downloaded from the official website upsc.gov.in. |
| What is the total marks weightage for the UPSC ESE Prelims exam? |
| The exam carries 500 marks – 200 for Paper I and 300 for Paper II. |
| What is the next stage after UPSC ESE Prelims? |
| Candidates qualifying the prelims will be eligible for the UPSC ESE Mains 2026 examination. |
Candidates are advised to visit the official UPSC website regularly for authentic updates regarding the UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 timetable, admit cards, and further stages of the examination. Bookmark this page to stay informed about any changes or new announcements related to the Engineering Services Examination, for more details and check time table CLICK HERE
