UPSC ESE 2026 Interview Dates Announced: Personality Tests Begin from 21 September
UPSC has officially announced the schedule for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 Personality Tests. Here's everything candidates need to know.
The Union Public Service Commission has announced that the ESE 2026 Personality Tests (Interviews) will commence from Monday, 21 September 2026.
The announcement follows the declaration of the Engineering Services (Main) Examination 2026 result on 24 July 2026.
A total of 1,336 candidates have been included in the Personality Test schedule.
IES MASTER announces the Mock Inerview Session starts from 13 September.
UPSC ESE 2026 Interview: Key Details
UPSC has released the Personality Test schedule indicating the Roll Number, Date and Session of the interview for each candidate.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Examination | Engineering Services Examination (ESE) 2026 |
| Stage | Personality Test / Interview |
| Interview Commencement | 21 September 2026 |
| Candidates Scheduled | 1,336 candidates |
| Forenoon Reporting Time | 09:00 AM |
| Afternoon Reporting Time | 01:00 PM |
| e-Summon Letter | To be made available shortly |
| Interview Venue | As mentioned in the e-Summon Letter |
Candidates should carefully check their individual schedule once the e-Summon Letters are made available through the UPSC online portal.
IES MASTER announces the Mock Inerview Session starts from 13 September.
No Change in Interview Date & Time
UPSC has clearly stated that requests for changing the date and time of the Personality Test will not be entertained.
Candidates should therefore check their allotted interview date and session carefully and make their travel and other arrangements well in advance.
Travelling Expenses Reimbursement
Candidates appearing for the ESE 2026 Personality Test will be eligible for reimbursement of travelling expenses, subject to the applicable UPSC rules and guidelines.
The reimbursement will be restricted to the Second/Sleeper Class train fare (Mail Express).
If a candidate travels by any other mode or class, the reimbursement will be dealt with as per the applicable rules and UPSC guidelines.
ESE 2026 Interview Preparation: Start Now
With the Personality Tests scheduled to begin from 21 September 2026, shortlisted candidates now have limited time to prepare strategically.
The UPSC ESE interview is not simply a test of technical knowledge. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their technical understanding, awareness, communication skills, judgement and overall personality.
Important Areas to Prepare
- Technical subjects and engineering fundamentals
- Engineering applications and practical understanding
- Current affairs and developments in the engineering sector
- Projects, work experience and academic background
- Engineering ethics and professional responsibilities
- General awareness and personality-based questions
- Questions related to the candidate's DAF
- Situational and opinion-based questions
- Communication skills, confidence and overall personality
A structured mock-interview process can help candidates identify gaps in their preparation, improve their responses and become more comfortable with the actual Personality Test environment.
IES MASTER announces the Mock Inerview Session starts from 13 September.
Why ESE Interview Preparation Matters
The Personality Test is the final stage of the ESE selection process. At this stage, candidates need to present their knowledge and personality effectively before the UPSC board.
Preparation should therefore go beyond memorising possible questions. Candidates should practise answering questions clearly, logically and confidently while maintaining composure during unexpected or challenging questions.
Mock interviews and expert feedback can help candidates understand their strengths, identify areas for improvement and become more comfortable with the interview environment.
IES MASTER announces the Mock Inerview Session starts from 13 September.
Prepare with IES MASTER's ESE Interview Guidance Program
Now, it is the time to shift from written-exam preparation to focused interview preparation.
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