The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Main Examination 2026 began on Friday, August 21, with candidates appearing for the Essay Paper in the first stage of the written examination. The Day 1 paper is being conducted in a single shift from 9 AM to 12 noon. Candidates were advised to reach their examination centres well ahead of the reporting time to complete mandatory procedures, including face authentication, identity verification and frisking, without delays.
The UPSC Mains examination is being conducted over five days this year. After the single-shift examination on August 21, candidates will appear in two shifts on August 22, 23, 29 and 30. The morning session will be held from 9 AM to 12 noon, while the afternoon session will take place from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. The schedule covers the different compulsory and optional papers that form part of the Civil Services Main Examination.
The Commission has introduced strict security and identification requirements for candidates appearing at the examination centres. All candidates are required to undergo face authentication at the venue and must carry the original identity document mentioned on their e-Admit Card. Candidates have also been advised to carry two recent passport-sized photographs for each examination session. In case of authentication failure, discrepancies in identification or other unforeseen issues, candidates may be asked to complete an undertaking provided by the centre supervisor and attach their photograph.
Also Read: Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Access Restricted From Vikas Marg and Akshardham Today
Several electronic and communication devices have been prohibited inside the examination centres. Candidates cannot carry mobile phones, pagers, smartwatches, cameras, Bluetooth devices, programmable equipment, storage devices such as pen drives or other electronic accessories capable of communication. The restrictions apply even when such devices are switched off. Candidates have therefore been advised to carefully check the permitted and prohibited items before reaching their respective venues.
Attention will now shift to the difficulty level and subject-wise assessment of the Essay Paper after the three-hour examination concludes. Candidates are expected to share their experiences regarding the topics, structure and overall difficulty of the paper, while educators and subject experts are likely to provide detailed analysis. Such assessments could help candidates understand the nature of the paper and prepare more effectively for the remaining Mains examinations.
The UPSC has also announced a mechanism for candidates who wish to raise concerns regarding questions in the examination. The Question Paper Representation Portal will open after the examination, allowing candidates to submit representations concerning the question papers. The representation window is scheduled to remain open for five days. With the Mains examination now underway, candidates will continue with the remaining papers according to the official schedule while adhering to the Commission's examination and security guidelines.
Also Read: Harvard Advises International Students on New F-1, J-1 Visa Rule Changes