UPSC issues exam day guidelines for Civil Services Prelims 2026 candidates

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has issued detailed guidelines for candidates appearing in the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026 scheduled for May 24, asking aspirants to carefully follow reporting instructions and carry all required documents to avoid being denied entry.

The Commission said candidates must verify all details printed on their e-admit cards, including their name, photograph, and QR code, before reaching the examination center.

Candidates are required to carry a printed copy of the UPSC e-admit card along with the original photo identity card mentioned in the admit card. They must also bring a black ballpoint pen, a pencil, and a transparent water bottle.

Candidates whose photographs on the admit card are unclear have been instructed to carry two passport-size photographs along with a signed undertaking for each examination session.

UPSC has directed candidates to report well before the scheduled time to complete frisking and identity verification procedures.

According to the official instructions, entry to the examination venue will close at 9 am for the morning session and 2 pm for the afternoon session. No candidate will be allowed to enter after the gates close, regardless of the reason for delay.

The Commission has also advised candidates to visit their allotted examination centers at least a day before the exam to avoid last-minute confusion regarding location and travel arrangements.

Strict restrictions have been imposed on electronic devices and personal belongings inside the examination hall.

Items prohibited inside the center include mobile phones, even in switched-off mode; smartwatches; Bluetooth devices; cameras; pagers; pen drives; electronic gadgets; bags; and luggage.

UPSC clarified that it will not be responsible for the loss of personal belongings and warned candidates against carrying unnecessary items, especially since many centers may not have storage facilities.

Only simple wristwatches without communication features will be permitted inside the examination hall.

The Commission further stated that answers marked using pens other than black ballpoint pens will not be evaluated. Negative marking will apply in both papers of the preliminary examination.

Candidates have also been instructed to appear only at the examination center allotted to them. Those using their own scribes must carry a separate e-admit card for the scribe.

Candidates who have changed their name after matriculation have been asked to carry valid government-issued proof reflecting the changed name.

UPSC also announced that provisional answer keys for the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026 will be released after the examination concludes.