UPSC adds 3 new centers for Civil Services Prelims 2026

The Union Public Service Commission has added three new centers for the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026 in an effort to improve accessibility and reduce travel difficulties for candidates appearing for the exam on May 24.

The newly added examination centers are Bhubaneswar, Kanpur, and Meerut. With their inclusion, the total number of Civil Services Preliminary Examination centers across the country has increased from 80 to 83.

According to UPSC data, nearly 23,000 aspirants have opted for the newly introduced centers.

The Commission said the expansion was aimed at making examination venues available closer to candidates’ hometowns while reducing pressure on nearby centers.

UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar said the move is part of efforts to make the examination process more accessible, efficient, and candidate-friendly.

He also said that the Commission is working to ensure that Persons with Benchmark Disabilities receive their preferred examination centers.

This year, UPSC has received over 8.19 lakh applications for the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026.

The Commission has already released e-Admit Cards for eligible candidates through its official website and clarified that no physical admit cards will be issued.

Candidates have been instructed to carry a printed copy of the e-Admit Card along with the same photo identity document whose number is mentioned on the admit card. Entry will not be permitted without the required documents.

UPSC has also advised candidates to carefully verify details such as their name, photograph, and QR code on the admit card and immediately report discrepancies through email.

Candidates whose photographs on the admit card are unclear must carry a valid photo ID, two passport-size photographs, and an undertaking for each examination session.

The Commission has directed candidates to reach examination venues at least one-and-a-half hours before the exam to complete face authentication, frisking, and identity verification formalities.

Entry gates will close 30 minutes before each session begins, at 9 am for the morning session and 2 pm for the afternoon session. No candidate will be allowed entry after gate closure.

The UPSC has prohibited candidates from carrying mobile phones, smartwatches, electronic devices, books, bags, or valuables inside examination premises. Officials said no storage facilities would be provided at the venues.

Candidates will only be allowed to carry the e-Admit Card, black ballpoint pen, pencil, identity proof, self-photographs where required, and items specifically mentioned in the examination instructions.

The Commission warned that possession or use of mobile phones, electronic communication devices, or unauthorized material inside the examination venue could lead to disciplinary action, including cancellation of candidature, police complaints, and debarment from future examinations.

The UPSC also clarified that only black ballpoint pens must be used for filling OMR answer sheets and attendance records. While simple wristwatches are permitted, smartwatches and communication-enabled watches remain banned.

Candidates who have changed their names after matriculation have been asked to carry supporting documents, including government-issued identity proof and the original Gazette notification related to the name change, for both examination sessions.