Can a 12th pass apply for UPSC?

Yes, a 12th pass individual can apply for UPSC exams, but they need to meet certain eligibility criteria to be eligible to appear for the exam. Here are the basic eligibility requirements:

1. 1. Nationality: The candidate must be a citizen of India, a subject of Nepal, a subject of Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came over to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India.
   2. Age Limit: The candidate must be between 21 and 32 years old as of August 1 of the examination year. However, certain age relaxations apply to candidates belonging to reserved categories as per government regulations.
   3. Educational Qualification: The candidate must hold a degree from any recognized university incorporated by an Act of the Central or State Legislature in India or other educational institutions established by an Act of Parliament or declared to be deemed as a university under Section-3 of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956, or possess an equivalent qualification.
   4. Number of Attempts: The number of attempts permissible for candidates belonging to different categories varies. Generally, it’s six attempts for General category candidates, nine attempts for OBC candidates, and unlimited attempts for SC/ST candidates until they reach the upper age limit.

So, while a 12th pass can eventually appear for UPSC exams, they need to further their education to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree to meet the educational qualification criteria.