The Indian Engineering Services (IES) exam, conducted by UPSC, is one of the most prestigious competitive exams for engineers in India. This exam recruits candidates into key technical and managerial positions across various departments of the Government of India.
IES officers play a significant role in maintaining the nation’s infrastructure and public services. But before diving into preparation, the most vital step is understanding the IES exam eligibility.
Who Conducts the IES Exam?
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) organizes the IES exam, officially called the Engineering Services Examination (ESE). It’s held annually and includes three stages:
- Preliminary Exam
- Mains Exam
- Personality Test (Interview)
The selected candidates join Group A and Group B services in departments like:
- Indian Railways
- Central Water Engineering
- Central Engineering Services
- Indian Telecommunication Services
IES Exam Eligibility Overview
To ensure only qualified and deserving candidates apply, UPSC defines clear eligibility guidelines. These criteria span age, education, nationality, and medical fitness. Whether you’re a final-year student or a working engineer, verifying your eligibility is essential before applying.
Nationality Criteria for IES
To apply for the IES exam, a candidate must be:
- A citizen of India, or
- A subject of Nepal or Bhutan, or
- A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st January 1962, or
- A person of Indian origin who migrated from countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Burma, and East African nations intending to settle in India permanently
All non-Indian citizens must have a government-issued eligibility certificate.
IES Exam Eligibility Age Limit
Minimum Age: 21 years
Maximum Age: 30 years (as of 1st January of the exam year)
For example, for IES 2025, the candidate must be born between 2nd January 1995 and 1st January 2004.
Relaxation in Age Limit:
| Category | Upper Age Relaxation |
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| PwBD | 10 years |
| Defence Services Personnel | 5 years |
| Ex-servicemen | As per government rules |
So if you’re worried about whether you fall within the IES exam eligibility age limit, check these concessions carefully.
Educational Qualification Requirements
Candidates must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a recognized university. Accepted degrees include:
- B.E. or B.Tech in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics Engineering
- A degree/diploma from a foreign university that’s recognized by the Indian government
- Candidates who have passed Sections A and B of the Institution of Engineers (India) examination
Final-year students can also apply, provided they submit proof before the main examination.
IES Exam Eligibility Percentage Explained
One common query is about the IES exam eligibility percentage. Unlike some exams that demand minimum academic percentages, the IES exam does not have any fixed percentage criteria.
Whether you have just passed or graduated with distinction, as long as your degree is from an approved institution, you’re eligible.
Number of Attempts Allowed
There is no official limit on the number of attempts for the IES exam. However, the limit is indirectly enforced through age restrictions.
| Category | Attempts (Based on Age) |
| General | As many as allowed until 30 years of age |
| OBC | Till 33 years of age |
| SC/ST | Till 35 years of age |
Physical and Medical Standards for IES
Candidates recommended by the UPSC must clear a medical examination conducted by designated government hospitals. Standards include:
- Vision tests
- Hearing ability
- General physical fitness
Each department may also have specific requirements.
Category-Wise Eligibility Differences
General Category: Must meet all baseline eligibility conditions.
SC/ST/OBC: Eligible for age and fee relaxation.
PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities): Eligible for age relaxation and reservation under suitable streams.
Branch-Wise Eligibility for IES
IES is open to four core engineering disciplines:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering
If you belong to another branch, you must appear for one of these four papers, provided your degree is accepted.
Documents Required to Prove Eligibility
During different stages of the IES selection process, candidates must submit:
- Class 10 certificate (for age proof)
- Degree certificate or provisional certificate
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (for PwBD)
- ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)
Common Mistakes Candidates Make
- Ignoring age cutoffs: Applying too early or too late can lead to disqualification.
- Wrong category claims: Submitting incorrect reservation documents.
- Assuming percentage matters: Many candidates wrongly think a 60% score is mandatory.
Avoid these pitfalls by double-checking the official notification.
FAQs on IES Exam Eligibility
A: Indian citizens with an engineering degree in specified streams and aged between 21–30 years.
A: There’s no minimum percentage required—just a valid degree from a recognized institution.
A: Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years old as of January 1, 2025. Relaxations apply.
A: Yes, but proof of qualification must be submitted before the main exam.
A: Only if the diploma is equivalent to a degree as recognized by UPSC.
A: Only if they opt to appear for one of the four accepted disciplines.
Conclusion
Understanding the IES exam eligibility is the first crucial step toward achieving your dream of becoming a government engineer. From age and education to nationality and physical standards, every rule must be followed to ensure smooth participation in the exam. Stay updated, read the official UPSC notifications, and start preparing early.
Click here to read this article in Hindi.
