Confused about how many attempts are allowed in government exams? π€π This complete guide explains attempt limits for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway, and State PSC exams, including category-wise rules and age limits. Plan your preparation smartly and make every attempt count! π―π
Last update: 11-02-2026 04:32 PM
One of the most common questions among aspirants is:
π How many attempts are allowed in government exams?
Whether youβre preparing for SSC, Banking, Railway, UPSC, or State PSC exams, knowing the attempt limit is very important for planning your preparation strategy. β³
Letβs understand everything clearly. π
β Helps in long-term planning
β Avoids last-minute pressure
β Helps manage age eligibility
β Allows better career decisions
Some exams have fixed attempt limits, while others depend only on the age limit.
UPSC has a fixed number of attempts.
π Age limit also applies:
For most SSC exams:
β No fixed attempt limit
β You can attempt until you reach the maximum age limit.
Example:
So attempts depend on how many times the exam is conducted before you cross age limit.
For IBPS & SBI:
β No fixed attempt limit
β You can attempt until you reach the upper age limit (usually 30 years for PO).
Age Relaxation:
Most Railway exams also:
β Do not have fixed attempt limits
β Based only on age eligibility
State PSC rules vary by state.
Some states:
Always check official notification.
| Exam | Fixed Attempts? | Based on Age Limit? |
|---|---|---|
| UPSC | Yes | Yes |
| SSC | No | Yes |
| Banking | No | Yes |
| Railway | No | Yes |
| State PSC | Depends | Yes |
β
Attempt is counted only if you appear in the exam
β
Filling form but not appearing may not count (check notification)
β
Age relaxation applies to reserved categories
β
Always verify latest official notification
β Donβt waste early attempts without preparation
β Give mock tests before actual exam
β Track your improvement
β Keep backup options
Remember β quality attempts matter more than quantity. π―
The number of attempts allowed in government exams depends on the exam type.
UPSC has fixed limits, while most SSC, Banking, and Railway exams depend only on age limit.
Plan your preparation wisely, understand eligibility rules, and make every attempt count. π