The Engineering Services Examination (ESE) Prelims 2026 were successfully administered by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The UPSC ESE Prelims Question Paper 2026 is now available for download in PDF format for candidates who took the test or are getting ready for future ESE attempts. Candidates can improve their preparation techniques, comprehend question trends, and analyse test patterns with the help of the question paper.
One of the most prominent competitive tests in India for engineering graduates is the UPSC ESE, commonly referred to as the IES exam. Every year, it is held to hire personnel for the Government of India’s various technical services.
Table of Contents
Overview of the UPSC ESE Prelims 2026 Exam
On the same day, two objective-style papers are administered as part of the ESE Prelims 2026:
General Studies and Engineering Proficiency (GS) Paper I
Paper II: Specific Paper for the Engineering Discipline
Branches including Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering each have their own Paper II.
Candidates are shortlisted for the ESE Mains Examination based on their performance in the qualifying preliminary exam.
UPSC ESE Prelims Question Paper 2026’s Significance
There are various advantages to downloading and practicing the UPSC ESE Prelims Question Paper 2026.
helps determine the exam’s degree of difficulty.
gives information on significant and frequently discussed subjects.
enhances the ability to manage time effectively
aids applicants in determining their strengths
Exam Pattern for UPSC ESE Prelims 2026
General Studies and Engineering Proficiency Paper I
100 questions in total
Maximum Points: 200
Time frame: two hours
Engineering mathematics, quality, ethics, project management, and general aptitude are among the subjects covered.
Engineering Discipline (Paper II)
150 questions in total
Maximum Points: 300
Time frame: three hours
Questions centred on the selected discipline’s foundational engineering topics
Accuracy is essential because both tests include negative marking for wrong responses.
How to Get the 2026 UPSC ESE Prelims Question Paper in PDF Format
Candidates can obtain the question paper in PDF format by following these steps:
Go to the UPSC’s official website.
The “Examinations” or “Previous Question Papers” sections should be available.
“Engineering Services Examination (Prelims) 2026” is clicked.
For Paper II, choose Paper I or the appropriate engineering discipline.
Save the question paper in PDF format for future use.
For thorough practice, candidates are encouraged to download all pertinent papers.
UPSC ESE Prelims Subject-Wise Question Papers 2026
Each engineering branch’s Paper II question papers are accessible separately:
Civil Engineering
Electrical, mechanical, and electronics and telecommunications engineering
To guarantee focused preparation, candidates should download the paper according to the discipline they have chosen.
The ESE Prelims 2026 Question Paper: Who Should Download It?
Applicants who participated in the 2026 ESE Prelims
Candidates getting ready for ESE 2027 and beyond Engineering students aiming to work for the government
Mentors and coaching centers
In conclusion
In order to analyse the results and prepare for the future, it is imperative that you download the UPSC ESE Prelims Question Paper 2026 PDF. Aspirants can better align their preparation with these question papers, which offer insightful information on UPSC’s test methodology. Regular preparation, in-depth analysis, and keeping up with official UPSC notifications regarding answer keys, results, and mains exam schedules are all advised for candidates.
