- Candidate must hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university or institute or equivalent.
- A candidate who has appeared or intends to appear for the qualifying examination and is waiting for their results may also apply.
- Candidates with professional and technical qualifications recognized by the Government as equivalent to professional and technical degrees.
- Candidates who have passed the final year of MBBS or any Medical Examination but are yet to complete the internship can also appear for the Main Examination.
- A candidate who is appointed to the Indian Administrative Service or the Indian Foreign Service on the results of an earlier examination and continues to be a member of that service will not be eligible to compete at this examination. They have to resign from the services to reappear in the Civil Services Examination.
- For the Indian Administrative Service and the Indian Police Service, a candidate must be a citizen of India.
| Category | Maximum Age | Attempt |
|---|---|---|
| General | 32 | 6 |
| OBC | 35 | 9 |
| SC/ST | 37 | Unlimited attempts up to the age limit |
| Physically Challenged | 42 |
General- 9 OBC-9 SC/ST- Up to age limit |
| J&K Domicile |
General- 37 OBC- 40 SC/ST- 42 PH- 50 |
Depending on above categories as applicable. |
| Disabled serviceman discharged from duty |
General- 35 OBC- 38 SC/ST- 40 |
Depending on above categories as applicable. |
| Ex-serviceman with five years duty* |
General- 37 OBC- 40 SC/ST- 42 |
Depending on above categories as applicable. |