UPSC Prelims Exam Date 2026 Out, Download Prelims Schedule PDF

Union Public Service Commission has released UPSC Prelims Exam Date 2026, which is scheduled for May 24th, 2026, in two shifts in various centres in India. It is the first stage of the Civil Services Examination and must be cleared to be eligible for the next stage.

With the announcement of the exam date, candidates across the country are gearing up to face the challenging stage. Knowing the UPSC Prelims 2026 exam date in advance helps candidates plan their preparation effectively. Read on to learn the important dates of the UPSC Prelims Exam Date 2026, the registration schedule, and strategies to prepare for the exam.

UPSC Prelims Exam Date 2026 Out

The UPSC Prelims is the first phase of the UPSC Selection Process 2026. Candidates need to qualify at every stage to clear the examination. UPSC Prelims 2026 is an objective-type exam that serves as a screening test for the Mains exam. Candidates must be well-prepared to clear this stage and move on to the next level.

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UPSC Prelims Schedule 2026

The UPSC Prelims 2026 Schedule has been released, which is scheduled for May 24, 2026, in two shifts: the morning session 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM for General Studies Paper I and the afternoon session 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM for General Studies Paper II (CSAT). Be sure to note this date and plan your preparation accordingly.

Candidate can check UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2026 Here!

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Importance of the UPSC Prelims Date Exam 2026

Understanding the importance of the Exam Date for UPSC Prelims 2026 can motivate candidates to prepare with greater dedication and focus. The UPSC Prelims Exam 2026 holds significant importance for several reasons:

• Gateway to the Mains: The Prelims is the first stage that filters candidates for the Mains exam.
• Determines Eligibility: While the marks from Prelims don’t contribute to the final ranking, clearing this stage is mandatory to proceed to the Mains.
• Screening Process: It serves as a screening process, reducing the number of candidates who move on to the next stage.

How to Prepare for UPSC Prelims 2026?

Preparing for the UPSC Prelims Exam Date 2026 requires a focused and well-organized approach. Follow the given strategy to be Prelims ready:

• IAS Prelims Pattern: Start by familiarizing yourself with the structure of the Prelims. Know the weightage of each subject and the type of questions asked in previous years.
• Core Subjects: Focus on key areas like History, Geography, Polity, Economy, and Environment. Read PW UPSC Wallah books for holistic coverage of the syllabus.
• Current Affairs: Make it a daily habit to read newspapers and follow the ‘pwonlyias.com’ daily news section. Compile notes on important events and issues that are relevant for the exam.
• Previous Years' Papers: Practice solving previous years' question papers regularly. UPSC Prelims Solved PYQs book by Physics Wallah to practice for the exam.
• Take Mock Tests: Enroll in the PW OnlyIAS test series to simulate the exam environment. Regular mock tests will help you assess your preparation and identify areas that need improvement.
• CSAT Preparation: While General Studies Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying in nature, don’t take it lightly. Practice aptitude, reasoning, and comprehension to ensure you meet the qualifying marks.
• Revise Regularly: Revision is key to retaining what you’ve studied. Set aside time every week for revising important topics and notes.

The IAS Prelims Exam Date 2026 is getting closer, join guidance programs by Physics Wallah for support!