The Union Public Service Commission is set to commence the Civil Services Main Examination 2026 on August 21, 2026. Ahead of the crucial exams, the commission has issued mandatory guidelines and instructions for all candidates appearing across various examination centers nationwide. To ensure a fair, transparent, and secure examination environment, strict security protocols and comprehensive candidate verification measures have been put in place. The commission has cautioned that any minor oversight or failure to adhere to the prescribed instructions could adversely affect a candidate's months of dedicated preparation. Therefore, candidates must familiarize themselves with the schedule, verification procedures, allowed items, and prohibited materials before reaching the test venues.
Examination Schedule and Daily Shift Timings
The UPSC CSE Mains 2026 examination will be conducted over five scheduled days: August 21, August 22, August 23, August 29, and August 30, 2026. On each scheduled examination day, the papers will be held in two separate sessions. The morning shift is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, while the afternoon shift will run from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Candidates are explicitly advised to reach their designated examination centers at least 30 minutes prior to the start of each session to complete security checks without hassle.
Mandatory Biometric and Face Authentication Rules
To eliminate identity fraud and any form of malpractice, the Union Public Service Commission has mandated digital verification for all test takers at the exam centers. Mandatory biometric scanning and face authentication will be performed for every candidate before entry into the examination hall. Candidates are required to carry 2 recent passport-size photographs for every exam session. If a candidate's face authentication fails to match in the digital system or any issue arises regarding photo verification, the candidate will be required to complete an undertaking form at the center and attach a fresh photograph to proceed.
Permitted Items inside the Examination Hall
Candidates are allowed to carry only specified essential items inside the examination venue. The permissible list of items includes
- e-Admit Card: A clear and legible printed copy of the official e-Admit Card.
- Original Photo ID: The original identity proof matching the details printed on the admit card, such as Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport.
- Passport Size Photos: 2 recent passport-size photographs per session.
- Black Ballpoint Pen: Only black ballpoint pens are permitted for writing answers in the answer booklets and marking the attendance sheets.
- Transparent Water Bottle: Only completely clear and transparent bottles are allowed for carrying drinking water.
Strictly Prohibited Items and Property Security Warning
To maintain strict exam security, the commission has listed several items that are strictly banned inside the examination hall. Candidates must not bring the following
- Electronic Devices: Mobile phones (even if powered off), smartwatches, digital watches, Bluetooth devices, pagers, and pen drives.
- Stationery and Calculators: Study notes, books, loose papers, or calculators of any kind.
- Valuables: Expensive jewelry, large bags, or other costly personal belongings.
The commission has specifically emphasized that examination centers will not make any provisions or locker facilities for storing candidates' bags or valuable possessions. Consequently, candidates are advised to travel to the exam centers bringing strictly only the mandatory documents and permitted writing instruments.
