The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has initiated the registration process for the civil services main examination 2026. Qualified candidates can complete the Detailed Application Form (DAF) process by June 28, 2026 at upsc.gov.in
The authority has stated that e-admit cards for the UPSC CSE mains 2026 will be generated only after the successful submission of the DAF. Hence, it is mandatory for every eligible candidate to fill up the DAF and reconfirm the details within the specified date.
The window shall remain open from June 19 to June 28, 2026, for submission of the application form, payment of the examination fee, correcting details and declaring requirements for assistive devices and large-font question paper. Shortlisted candidates belonging to the Female, SC, ST and PwBD categories are not required to pay the ₹200 examination fee.
Steps to complete the DAF application
Go to the official UPSC website.
Log in using registration credentials.
Verify your personal and academic details.
Provide category, reservation, and other eligibility-related information, if applicable.
Select cadre preferences.
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Declare for requirements of assistive devices.
Pay the ₹200 examination fee, unless you are eligible for an exemption.
Verify all information and submit the form.
After submission, download the page for future reference.
Check for e-Admit Card before examination.
UPSC Mains 2026 Exam Pattern Explained
According to Hindustan Times, the UPSC CSE Mains 2026 will consist of 9 papers and will be conducted in a written format. Out of these, two papers, an Indian Language paper and an English paper carrying 300 marks each, are qualifying in nature, and the candidates are required to secure the minimum qualifying marks prescribed by the Commission. The merit ranking will be based on seven papers carrying a total of 1,750 marks.
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These include one Essay paper (250 marks), four General Studies papers (GS I, GS II, GS III and GS IV) carrying 250 marks each, and two papers of the candidate’s chosen Optional Subject carrying 250 marks each. Candidates who qualify the written examination will be called for the Personality Test (Interview), which carries 275 marks.
FAQs:
When will the UPSC CSE Mains 2026 registration begin?
The registration for UPSC CSE Mains 2026 begins on June 19, 2026.
What is the last date to submit the DAF for UPSC Mains 2026?
Eligible candidates can submit the Detailed Application Form (DAF) till June 28, 2026.
