A candidate is allowed a total of **six attempts** for the UPSC Civil Services Exam. However, specific categories like Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) have relaxed regulations, allowing them additional attempts. After the age of 32 for general candidates and 37 for SC/ST candidates, the number of attempts becomes a crucial factor in strategic planning for the exam. Understanding these limits helps candidates manage their preparation timelines effectively.