There is a set of rules governing the UPSC CSE examination. A candidate can appear for the IAS examination only for a specific number of times. Candidates belonging to the General category can appear for the IAS exam only for four times within their age limit. Likewise, candidates belonging to the OBC category can appear for the IAS examination only seven times. However, for the SC/ST candidates, there is an exemption as they can appear for the IAS examination as many times as they want until they reach 37 years of age. Remember that appearing for one paper in the Prelims exam is also considered an attempt.