Eligibility for CSE has four parts: nationality, age, educational qualification and number of attempts. Age and attempts have their own pages (age limit, attempts). This page covers the other two.
Nationality
For the IAS, IFS and IPS you must be a citizen of India. For the other services, the notification also allows subjects of Nepal and Bhutan, Tibetan refugees who came to India before 1 January 1962 to settle permanently, and persons of Indian origin who migrated from specified countries (Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka and some East African countries, and Vietnam) to settle permanently. These candidates need a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India before an appointment offer.
Educational qualification
You need a graduate degree from a university set up by a central or state Act, an institution set up by an Act of Parliament, a deemed university under Section 3 of the UGC Act, or an equivalent qualification. Any stream works. Marks do not matter.
Final-year students
You can write Prelims and Mains while your result is awaited. If you qualify for the interview, you must show proof of passing (degree certificate, final mark sheet or provisional certificate) within the time UPSC sets. MBBS and similar degrees need proof that the internship is done.
In practice, many students write their first Prelims in the final year. If you plan to, start with PYQs in your second year rather than a pile of books.
FAQs
Can final-year students apply for UPSC CSE?
Yes. They can sit the written exam, but must show proof of passing their degree if they qualify for the interview.
Is there a minimum percentage in graduation?
No. Any recognised graduate degree is enough; the notification sets no minimum marks.
Must I be an Indian citizen?
For IAS, IFS and IPS, yes. For other services, certain other categories are allowed with a Government of India eligibility certificate.