UPSC CSE Cutoff 2026 — Category-Wise Prelims & Mains Cut Off Marks

The UPSC CSE Cutoff is among the most closely watched numbers in Indian competitive exams. The Civil Services Examination has three stages — Prelims, Mains, and Interview — each with separate cutoffs. UPSC is unique in that the Prelims cutoff is relatively low (around 50-55% of total marks) but the overall competition makes even this challenging.

How UPSC CSE Cutoff Works

• Prelims (GS Paper I): Qualifying cutoff based on GS Paper I marks only (200 marks). CSAT (Paper II) is qualifying with 33% minimum.
• Mains: 7 subjective papers + 2 qualifying papers. Merit-based cutoff for interview shortlisting.
• Final: Mains (1750 marks) + Interview (275 marks) = Total 2025 marks.

UPSC CSE Cutoff Trend (2022–2024)

Prelims cutoff for General category ranged from 86 to 96 marks out of 200 — approximately 43-48%. This seemingly low percentage is deceptive because the questions are extremely challenging, and many of the 10+ lakh applicants fail to cross this threshold. Mains cutoffs have been around 735-780 out of 1750 marks.

Expected UPSC CSE 2026 Cutoff

Prelims cutoff is expected at 90–100 out of 200 for General. Aim for 110+ to be safely qualified. For Mains, target 800+ out of 1750 for strong interview call chances.