UPSC CSE Mains 2026: Important Exam Day Instructions Issued, Check Admit Card Rules, Entry Timings and Banned Items Before August 21

With just two days to go for the UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026, the Union Public Service Commission has issued important exam-day instructions for candidates. The Mains examination will be conducted on August 21, 22, 23, 29 and 30, 2026, in two sessions each day — the forenoon session from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and the afternoon session from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

Candidates who cleared the UPSC Prelims 2026, held on May 24, are advised to read the instructions carefully, as violation of exam-day rules can lead to cancellation of candidature.

UPSC Mains 2026: Admit Card Already Released

The UPSC Mains admit card 2026 was released on August 14 on the official website, upsc.gov.in (e-Admit Card section). Candidates who have not yet downloaded it should do so immediately using their registration ID or roll number and date of birth, and verify their name, roll number, exam centre, dates and session details. Any discrepancy must be reported to the Commission at once.

Aspirants are advised to print multiple copies of the e-admit card — one for the exam bag and one as backup — as the printed admit card must be carried to every session along with the original photo ID whose number was provided in the application form.

UPSC CSE Mains 2026: Key Exam Day Instructions

1. Carry a printed e-admit card to every session, along with the original photo identity card mentioned in your application. A digital copy on the phone will not be accepted.

2. Reach the exam venue well in advance. Entry to the examination hall closes before the scheduled start of each session, and latecomers are not permitted under any circumstances.

3. Face authentication will be conducted at the venue. UPSC has mandated face authentication for all candidates at exam centres to strengthen the integrity of the examination process — cooperate with the verification staff and keep your documents ready.

4. Prohibited items: Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, earphones, calculators (unless permitted for specific papers) and any electronic or communication device are strictly banned inside the exam hall. Candidates are advised not to bring valuables, as safekeeping is not guaranteed at centres.

5. Use only black ballpoint pens for writing answers, as per UPSC's standard instruction for descriptive papers.

6. Do not write your name or any identifying mark anywhere on the answer booklet other than in the designated space — doing so can invite disqualification.

7. Exam centre cannot be changed at this stage; candidates allotted centres in other cities should finalise travel and stay arrangements immediately.

UPSC Mains 2026: Exam Structure at a Glance

The UPSC Civil Services Main Examination consists of nine descriptive papers carrying a total of 1,750 marks — Essay, General Studies Papers I to IV, Optional Subject Papers I and II, and two qualifying language papers (Paper A: Indian Language and Paper B: English), whose marks are not counted in the merit. Candidates who clear the Mains will appear for the Personality Test carrying 275 marks, with the final merit prepared out of 2,025 marks.

This year, the examination is being held for approximately 933 vacancies across the IAS, IPS, IFS and other Central Services.

UPSC Mains 2026: Schedule at a Glance