UPSC prelims exam 2026 tomorrow: Strict entry curbs, from black pens to ID checks, here's what candidates must follow

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will conduct the Civil Services Preliminary Examination (CSE) 2026 on May 24, 2026, across centres nationwide. The Commission has made it clear that no candidate will be allowed to enter the examination venue after the closing of gates. For the morning session, entry will stop at 9 AM, while for the afternoon session, gates will close at 2 PM.

Candidates have been advised to reach their examination centres well in advance to complete frisking and identity verification procedures. UPSC has also directed aspirants to visit their centres at least a day before the examination to avoid confusion or delays on the final day.

Appearing at any centre other than the one mentioned on the admit card will not be permitted under any circumstances.

What candidates must carry to the exam hall

UPSC has instructed candidates to carry a printed copy of the e-admit card along with the original photo identity proof mentioned in the admit card. Entry without these documents may lead to disqualification from appearing in the examination.

Candidates should also carry:

• Black ballpoint pen
• Pencil
• Transparent water bottle
• Passport-size photographs, if required
• Additional identity proof

The Commission has stressed that answers marked using any pen other than a black ballpoint pen will not be evaluated.

Candidates whose photographs on the admit card are unclear have been instructed to bring two passport-size photographs along with a valid photo identity card and a signed undertaking for each session.

Electronic gadgets completely banned

UPSC has imposed a complete ban on electronic devices inside the examination hall. Mobile phones, even in switched-off mode, smart watches, Bluetooth devices, cameras, pagers, pen drives, and communication-enabled gadgets are strictly prohibited.

Only simple wrist watches will be permitted. Smart watches or digital watches with communication features remain banned.

The Commission has also cautioned candidates against bringing bags, valuables, or expensive items to the venue, stating that no responsibility will be taken for lost belongings. UPSC warned that many centres may not have facilities for safekeeping prohibited items.

Negative marking and strict scrutiny remain in force

The Civil Services Preliminary examination will continue to follow the negative marking system for incorrect responses in both papers. Candidates have also been reminded that their candidature remains provisional at this stage.

For candidates using scribes, UPSC clarified that only those issued a separate e-admit card for the scribe will be allowed to avail the facility.

Candidates who have changed their name after matriculation must carry a government-issued identity proof reflecting the updated name. Failure to produce valid identification could result in denial of entry.

Admit card must be preserved till final result

UPSC has directed aspirants to preserve their admit cards carefully until the final results of the CSE exam 2026 are declared.

In a significant move aimed at improving transparency, the Commission will also release provisional answer keys for the prelims examination after the exam concludes, a first in the history of the Civil Services Preliminary Examination.

For lakhs chasing a place in India’s administrative machinery, Sunday’s examination will not merely test preparation levels. It will test discipline, precision, and the ability to remain composed under immense pressure.

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