UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 Today: Important Exam Day Instructions You Should Not Miss

UPSC CSE Prelims 2025

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will conduct the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2025 today, May 25, at examination centres across the country. Considered one of India's most prestigious competitive exams, this year's preliminary test will witness participation from aspirants vying for positions in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and other central services.

Exam Conduct and Security Arrangements

Authorities have implemented stringent security measures at all 2,200 examination centers nationwide.The two-session examination follows the standard pattern with General Studies Paper-I in the morning (9:30 AM to 11:30 AM) and CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) in the afternoon (2:30 PM to 4:30 PM).

UPSC CSE Prelims 2025: Key Exam Day Instructions

1. Mandatory Documents to Carry

• Printed copy of the e-admit card (without which entry will be denied).
• A valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, Passport, etc.) matching the details on the admit card.
• If the photograph on the admit card is unclear or lacks a name/date, candidates must bring:
• Two passport-sized photos (with name and date)
• A signed undertaking

2. Reporting Time & Entry Rules

Candidates can enter the exam center up to 30 minutes before the exam starts:

• Forenoon Session (9:30 AM): Entry allowed till 9:00 AM
• Afternoon Session (2:30 PM): Entry allowed till 2:00 PM
• Latecomers will not be permitted after the gates close.

3. Items Allowed Inside the Exam Hall

• Black ballpoint pen (for OMR sheet filling)
• Photo ID proof
• Printout of e-admit card
• Self-attested photographs (if required)
• Simple wristwatch (without smart features)

4. Strictly Prohibited Items

• Mobile phones, smartwatches, or any electronic gadgets (even in switched-off mode)
• Bags, luggage, or valuables
• Study material, notes, or paper sheets
• Calculators, Bluetooth devices, or communication tools

5. Important Warnings

Possession of banned items (including phones in switch-off mode) may lead to:

• Cancellation of candidature
• FIR/police complaint
• Debarment from future UPSC exams
• OMR sheets must be filled carefully using a black ballpoint pen.

What's Next in the Selection Process?

Successful candidates from today's preliminary examination will qualify for the UPSC Mains examination, scheduled for September 2025. The final selection process includes the personality test (interview) stage, with results expected by April 2026.