| Category | Attempts |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 6 |
| OBC | 9 |
| SC / ST | Unlimited (till the age limit) |
| PwBD (General / EWS / OBC) | 9 |
| PwBD (SC / ST) | Unlimited |
What counts as an attempt
An attempt is counted when you appear in at least one paper of Prelims. Applying and not turning up does not count. Sitting one paper does, even if you walk out. Being disqualified or having your candidature cancelled also counts as an attempt.
How to think about attempts
Six sounds like plenty. It goes faster than people expect. Treat your first attempt as a serious one only if you have finished at least one full revision of the syllabus and solved the last ten years of Prelims PYQs. Sitting the paper “for experience” spends an attempt; a full-length open mock gives you the same experience for free.
Syllabus, line by lineEach line with its PYQs
PYQ bankOfficial answers, explanations
Diagnose first15-minute free test
FAQs
How many attempts does a General candidate get?
Six, within the age limit of 32.
Does applying count as an attempt?
No. Only appearing in at least one Prelims paper counts.
Do SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts?
Yes, until they reach the upper age limit of 37.