UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Live: Exam Tomorrow, Check Shift Timings, Exam Day Guidelines & Documents to Carry to Exam Hall

Candidates were not allowed to leave the examination hall before the completion of the paper. Strict rules were followed at all centres.

Candidates were instructed to carefully fill in details on the OMR sheet, including roll number and booklet code, to avoid mistakes during evaluation.

Candidates were advised to wear simple clothes and avoid jewellery, metallic items, and fancy accessories to ensure smooth security checking at the centre.

Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, calculators, and other electronic gadgets were strictly prohibited inside the examination hall. Candidates carrying such items faced strict action.

UPSC advised candidates to carry only important items such as admit card, valid photo ID proof, and ballpoint pen. Extra bags and unnecessary items were discouraged.

Candidates were advised to reach the examination centre at least one hour before reporting time to avoid last-minute rush and verification delays. Late entry was not allowed after gate closing time.

Candidates who managed time properly during the examination were able to attempt maximum questions with accuracy.

Negative marking will be applicable in both papers for incorrect answers. Candidates were advised to answer carefully.

The UPSC recruitment process includes Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Personality Test (Interview).

In the UPSC CSE exam, every year, around 5-6 lakhs candidates appear for around one thousand vacancies across India.

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is conducted to recruit candidates for prestigious services like IAS, IPS, IFS, and other central services.

Candidates were advised not to carry jewellery, metallic accessories, or fancy items to avoid delays during security checking.

Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, calculators, and other electronic gadgets were completely prohibited inside the examination hall.

Security arrangements remained strict at UPSC exam centres. Frisking and identity verification were conducted before allowing candidates inside.

Candidates had to carry a printed copy of the UPSC CSE 2026 admit card to gain entry into the examination hall. Without the admit card, entry was not permitted.

Candidates were not allowed to enter the examination centre after gate closing time. UPSC followed strict guidelines regarding entry and verification.

Candidates should avoid carrying the following items to the exam center. Those who do not comply with the dress code may be denied entry:

• Jewelry or metal accessories (e.g., rings, bracelets, earrings, chains)

• Electronic devices, including mobile phones, smartwatches, and calculators

• Fancy accessories such as hairbands, clutches, etc.

• Closed footwear (e.g., shoes)

To gain entry into the exam hall, candidates must present the following documents. It’s essential that all documents are in good condition and match the information provided during registration:

• A printed copy of the UPSC CSE 2026 admit card.

• A government-issued ID such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, or driver’s license.

• Ballpoint pen to mark answers on the OMR sheet.

Candidates used blue ballpoint pens to mark answers on the OMR sheets during both papers of the examination.

Along with the admit card, candidates were required to carry a valid government-issued photo ID such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card, passport, or driving licence.

The UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 examination was conducted in two shifts today. GS Paper I was held in the morning session, while CSAT Paper II took place in the afternoon shift.

Union Public Service Commission successfully conducted the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026 tomorrow, May 24, across various exam centres in the country. Lakhs of candidates appeared for the prestigious examination.