The UPSC Civil Services Main Examination 2025 commences today, scheduled from August 22nd to 31st, conducted in two shifts. Candidates must carry their admit card and a valid ID, while mobiles, smartwatches, and other electronic devices are strictly prohibited. The Commission has also advised candidates to arrive on time.
UPSC Mains Exam 2025: The Union Public Service Commission's Civil Services Main Examination begins today, with 14,161 candidates participating. The examination will be held from August 22nd to August 31st at examination centers across the country in two shifts. Candidates are required to carry their admit card and a photo ID proof, while mobile phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices are prohibited. The Commission has clarified that entry will not be permitted after the reporting time. This examination is the written stage, after which successful candidates will be called for an interview.
When and How Will the Exam Be Conducted?
According to the UPSC notification, the Main Examination will be conducted from August 22nd to August 31st, 2025. The examination will be held in two shifts each day.
- Morning Shift: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Shift: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Candidates are required to report to the examination centers before the reporting time. For the morning shift, candidates must arrive by 8:30 AM, and for the second shift, by 2:00 PM. Candidates who do not arrive on time will not be allowed to enter the examination center.
How Many Candidates Will Participate?
This time, 14,161 candidates have been found eligible to appear in the Mains examination. These are the candidates who successfully cleared the preliminary examination. The Main Examination is a written stage, after which eligible candidates will be called for a personality test/interview.
What Items Are Allowed in the Examination?
UPSC has issued guidelines for candidates appearing in the examination, which must be followed.
- Admit Card: Entry to the examination will not be granted without the admit card. Candidates must carry a printed copy of the admit card.
- Valid Identification (ID Proof): Such as Aadhar card, passport, voter ID, driving license, or PAN card. The photograph of the candidate on the admit card and ID proof must be clear.
- Stationery: Pen, pencil, and a scale can be carried if needed.
- Water Bottle: Candidates can carry water in a transparent bottle.
What Items Are Not Allowed in the Examination Center?
UPSC has made it clear to the candidates that bringing any kind of electronic or prohibited items to the examination center is forbidden.
- Mobile phone
- Smartwatch
- Earphones, Bluetooth devices
- Pager
- Camera
- Pen drive or other storage devices
- Any communication device
In addition, candidates are also advised not to bring bags and valuables, as there is no arrangement for keeping them by the Commission.
Dress Code and Other Rules
Girls are advised to avoid wearing any kind of metal jewelry. It is recommended to wear light and comfortable clothes so that there is no problem in the checking process.
There will be strict checking before entry to the examination center. Action may be taken against the candidate if any kind of disturbance is found, which includes a provision for ban from the examination.
