UPSC ESE Answer Key 2026 – Download PDF, Raise Objection, Check Cut Off & Result Updates

The UPSC ESE Answer Key 2026 refers to the set of official and unofficial solutions released for the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission. It helps candidates verify their responses to the objective-type questions asked in the Preliminary stage and estimate their probable scores before the declaration of results.

While coaching institutes usually release provisional answer keys shortly after the exam, the official UPSC answer key is published later, typically after the completion of the entire selection process. The answer key plays a crucial role in transparency, performance analysis, and in raising objections (if applicable) against disputed questions or answers.

Quick Overview: UPSC ESE Prelims Answer Key 2026

Important Dates

Marking Scheme

How to Download UPSC ESE Answer Key 2026?

1. Visit the official website: upsc.gov.in
2. Open the section for Answer Key / Response Sheet.
3. Click on ESE Prelims Answer Key 2026 link.
4. Login using Registration Number / Roll Number and Date of Birth/Password (if asked).
5. Download the answer key PDF/response sheet and save it for reference.

How to Check Score Using ESE Prelims Answer Key 2026?

• Match your marked answers with the official answer key.
• Add marks for correct answers as per the official marking scheme.
• Deduct marks for wrong answers if negative marking is applicable.
• Your estimated score = (Correct × Marks per Question) − (Wrong × 1/3 Marks)

How to Raise Objection Against ESE Prelims Answer Key 2026?

UPSC typically does not release a provisional answer key with an objection facility for ESE Prelims. The final official answer key is released after the completion of the selection process. No objections are accepted for the Prelims stage.

When Will UPSC ESE Result 2026 Be Released?

The ESE Prelims Result 2026 is generally announced a few weeks after the exam, qualifying candidates for Mains (scheduled for 21/06/2026). Check the official website for updates using your Roll Number/Registration ID.

Final Answer Key & Result: What Happens After Objections?

• UPSC directly releases the Final Answer Key (no provisional/objection phase for Prelims).
• Results are prepared based on the final answer key.
• Cut off and merit list are published along with the Prelims result.

Important Links