The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) charges a nominal application fee for its examinations, most notably for the Civil Services Examination (CSE), commonly known as the IAS exam.
Understanding UPSC Civil Services Exam Fees
The application fee for the UPSC Civil Services Examination varies based on the candidate's category and the stage of the examination (Prelims or Mains). While some categories are entirely exempt from paying fees, others are required to pay a minimal amount.
Detailed Fee Structure for IAS Prelims and Mains
Here's a breakdown of the application fees for the IAS Preliminary and Main examinations:
| Category | IAS Prelims Exam Fees | IAS Mains Exam Fees |
|---|---|---|
| General/OBC (Male) | Rs.100/- | Rs.200/- |
| All Female Candidates | Exempted | Exempted |
| SC/ST and Other Categories | Exempted | Exempted |
Key Exemptions
- Female Candidates: All female candidates, regardless of their category, are fully exempt from paying any examination fees for both the Prelims and Mains exams.
- Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) Candidates: Candidates belonging to the SC and ST categories are also exempt from paying fees for both stages of the examination.
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD): Candidates with benchmark disabilities are also granted fee exemptions.
It is important for aspiring candidates to check the latest official UPSC notification for the most accurate and up-to-date fee structure, as minor changes can occur annually.
