UPSC Mains Exam Guidelines: The UPSC CSE Mains examination is scheduled to begin on August 21, 2026. Essential guidelines have been issued for candidates appearing for the UPSC CSE Mains 2026 exam. A minor oversight at the UPSC exam centre could undo months of hard work; therefore, it is crucial to review all guidelines thoroughly before heading to the centre. The Commission has advised candidates to carry two recent passport-sized photographs for every exam session. The Commission has also provided important instructions on face authentication and identity verification procedures at the exam centre.
The Commission has clarified that the checking and verification process will be quite strict this time. The exam centre has made arrangements for biometric and face authentication to prevent any irregularities. If you are appearing for the UPSC CSE Mains 2026 exam, you must be aware of all the guidelines. Find out which documents are mandatory to carry along with the UPSC Mains admit card and which items are prohibited inside the exam centre.
When will the UPSC CSE Mains begin?
The UPSC CSE Mains 2026 examination will be held on August 21, 22, 23, 29, and 30, 2026. The exam will be conducted in two shifts each day. The first shift will run from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, while the second shift will take place from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Candidates are advised to reach the exam centre at least 30 minutes before each session.
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Focus on Face Authentication
Face authentication will be mandatory for all candidates at the UPSC exam centre. The Commission has instructed candidates to carry two passport-sized photographs for every exam session. These photographs must be recent. If the face authentication fails within the system or there is an issue with the photograph, you will be required to fill out an undertaking form and attach your photograph at the centre.
What items are allowed inside the examination centre?
e-Admit Card: You must carry a clear printout of the admit card.
Original Photo ID: An original identity proof (such as Aadhaar, PAN card, Voter ID, or Passport) that matches the details on the admit card.
Passport-sized Photographs: Carry two passport-sized photographs for each session.
Black Ballpoint Pen: Use only a black ballpoint pen to fill out the answer booklet and attendance sheet.
Transparent Water Bottle: Only transparent bottles are permitted for drinking water.
What items are prohibited inside the examination centre?
UPSC prohibits the carrying of various electronic devices, including mobile phones, inside the examination centre. Candidates are not allowed to bring mobile phones, pagers, smartwatches or digital watches, Bluetooth devices, cameras, pen drives, programmable devices, or any form of electronic communication device into the centre. Additionally, candidates are advised not to carry expensive or valuable items, books, bags, or other such belongings.