UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025 are the list of guidelines for candidates who will be appearing for the exam this year. These rules and regulations are generally conveyed to aspirants through the admit card download portal, e-admit card, and ‘Special Instructions for Candidates Admitted to the Examination’, pasted outside the exam hall.
Candidates are advised to strictly adhere to the notified UPSC Prelims exam day instructions to avoid any punitive action by the authorities. Read on to find out the general instructions for the UPSC Prelims 2025 exam day.
As you are aware, the UPSC Prelims 2025 exam is set to be held on May 25, 2025, in just two weeks. Therefore, it becomes essential that you are fully prepared and familiar with the rules to ensure a stress-free and smooth examination experience. Following the guidelines issued by the Union Public Service Commission ensures you avoid common errors.
While the fresh list of instructions will be released with the ‘UPSC Admit Card 2025’, some of the common guidelines issued by authorities focus on:
Candidates must report to their designated exam center well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card. Entry to the exam venue closes 30 minutes before the commencement of each session (i.e., 9:00 AM for Paper 1 and 2:00 PM for Paper 2). No candidate will be allowed entry after the gate-closing time.
Check, UPSC Prelims Exam Reporting Time 2025
Besides the admit card and identity documents, candidates need to be mindful of the following permitted and non-permitted items:
Item | Allowed/Not Allowed |
UPSC Admit Card | Mandatory |
Valid ID Proof | Mandatory |
Black Ball Pen | Mandatory |
Mobile Phone, Smartwatch | Not Allowed |
Bags, Books, Notes | Not Allowed |
Transparent Water Bottle | Allowed |
Dry Snacks (confirm locally) | Maybe Allowed |
Pencil, Eraser | Allowed (not for OMR use) |
What to Carry to the UPSC Prelims Exam Centres?
Candidates must maintain complete silence and discipline inside the exam venue. Every UPSC Prelims exam centre will post a list of "Special Instructions for Candidates Admitted to the Examination," which must be followed by all candidates. Any kind of malpractice or impersonation will lead to the cancellation of candidature and legal action.
Fill the OMR sheet carefully and correctly with the black ballpoint pen. Make sure to fill in your roll number, booklet series, and other details correctly before proceeding to the answer marking. Do not make stray marks on the OMR sheet, as it may lead to disqualification.
Here is the list of key instructions for UPSC Prelims Exam 2025 that every candidate must follow:
Carry Admit Card: Print a copy of your admit card (either in color or black and white). If your photo on the admit card is not clear, carry the same with you on the exam day.
Bring Valid Photo ID Proof: Carry a government-issued photo ID, such as an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving Licence.
Reach the Exam Centre Early: Arrive at least 30 to 60 minutes before the reporting time to avoid last-minute rush and accommodate the frisking process.
Entry Deadline: The entry gates to the exam hall close 30 minutes before the exam begins, so be on time.
No Electronic Gadgets Allowed: Do not bring any electronic devices, such as mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or earphones, as they are prohibited.
Use Only Black Ballpoint Pen: Use only a black ballpoint pen to fill out the OMR sheet, and avoid using gel pens, pencils, or blue pens.
Follow the Dress Code: Wear simple, comfortable clothing and avoid full-sleeved shirts, metallic accessories, or anything that might raise suspicion.
Carry Extra Stationery: Bring 2–3 black ballpoint pens, a pencil (not for OMR sheets), and an eraser for rough work.
Avoid Panic and Talk Less: Stay calm and focused, and avoid engaging in unnecessary conversations with other candidates after Paper 1. Instead, get ready for Paper 2.
Time Management is Key: Both Paper 1 (General Studies) and Paper 2 (Civil Services Aptitude Test) require good speed and accuracy to complete on time.
By following these UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025, you can avoid last-minute issues and focus only on your performance.
Many candidates lose their chance to write the UPSC Mains simply because they fail to follow the UPSC Prelims exam day instructions properly. Some candidates arrive late, while others forget to bring their photo ID or use the wrong pen. These mistakes are entirely avoidable with a little preparation and attention to detail.
Further, UPSC enforces strict rules to ensure a fair and transparent examination process. The exam is divided into two shifts: the morning shift for the General Studies Paper and the afternoon shift for the CSAT. The entry gate closes 30 minutes before the scheduled start of each session, which means even a delay of 1 minute can cost your attempt.
UPSC doesn’t allow excuses. Therefore, adhering to the UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025 is just as crucial as preparing for the syllabus. These rules protect you from technical disqualification and help maintain the dignity of the Civil Services Examination.
Follow the UPSC Prelims exam day instructions carefully to ensure a smooth experience on the most important day of your UPSC journey. Remember, success lies not just in big strategies but in the small details that make a difference!
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