UPSC Prelims 2026: Dress code and guidelines for candidates; Detals here

Candidates must report 30–60 minutes before the exam. Gates will close by 9:00 am for the morning shift and 2:00 pm for the afternoon shift.

UPSC Prelims 2026 is scheduled for Sunday

New Delhi: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2026 is scheduled for Sunday, May 24, with two shifts: morning from 9:30 am to 11:30 am and afternoon from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm.

Candidates must report 30–60 minutes before the exam. Gates will close by 9:00 am for the morning shift and 2:00 pm for the afternoon shift.

UPSC Prelims Dress Code:

For Male Candidates:

• Wear casual trousers, pants, or jeans.
• Prefer slippers over shoes.
• Avoid caps, mufflers, or any head covering.

For Female Candidates:

• Opt for leggings or trousers.
• Choose simple sandals, avoid shoes.
• Avoid Mehndi, and do not carry handbags or purses into the exam hall.

Exam Centre Guidelines:

• Carry the UPSC Prelims admit card; no entry without it.
• Bring a government-issued photo ID (PAN, Voter ID, etc.) for identity verification.
• Report early: by 9:00 am for the morning shift, 2:00 pm for the afternoon shift.

Prohibited items: smartphones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, pagers, and other electronic gadgets. The centre does not provide storage; these must be left outside at the candidate’s risk.

For complete details, candidates can visit the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in.