UPSC Civil Services Main Exam 2026: Application Process Now Open

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has initiated the application process for the Civil Services Main Examination 2026, allowing candidates to apply until June 28. Over 13,000 candidates who passed the preliminary exam must fill out the Detailed Application Form (DAF) during this period. The main examination is scheduled to start on August 21, 2026, consisting of nine papers. Candidates can find detailed instructions on how to complete the DAF and the associated fees, ensuring they meet all requirements to participate in this crucial examination.

By Ambika Singh Jun 20, 2026, 15:39 IST

UPSC Mains Exam Application Details

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially opened the application process for the Civil Services Main Examination 2026. Interested candidates can submit their applications until June 28, 2026.

This announcement comes as a relief for those who have successfully passed the Civil Services Examination (CSE) Preliminary stage. Candidates who cleared the preliminary exam must complete the Detailed Application Form (DAF) between June 19 and June 28, 2026.

Candidates are required to log into the official UPSC portal to verify their details and provide the necessary information. During this application window, candidates can also pay the examination fee, update information regarding a scribe, request assistive devices, and specify their cadre preferences.

Candidate Statistics and Fee Structure

Reports indicate that over 13,000 candidates have qualified for this year's preliminary examination and are now tasked with filling out the Detailed Application Form.

Examination Fee:

Candidates from the General category must pay an examination fee of ₹200. However, those belonging to the Female, SC, ST, and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) categories are exempt from this fee. The UPSC has emphasized that candidates who do not submit the DAF within the specified timeframe will be barred from taking the Civil Services Main Examination 2026. E-admit cards will only be issued to candidates who complete the application process.

Examination Schedule

Main Examination Start Date:

The Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026 is set to begin on August 21, 2026. The examination will include nine papers in total. Among these, two papers—one in an Indian language and one in English—will be qualifying. The merit list will be based on the total marks (1,750) from the remaining seven papers, which consist of one Essay paper, four General Studies papers (GS-I, GS-II, GS-III, and GS-IV), and two papers on the Optional Subject. Candidates who pass the Main Examination will be invited for a Personality Test (Interview) worth 275 marks. For more information, candidates can visit the official UPSC website.

Steps to Complete the DAF

Follow these easy steps to fill out the DAF:

Visit the official UPSC website.

Log in using your registration details.

Verify your personal and educational information.

Update details regarding reservation and category.

Carefully fill in your cadre preferences.

Provide details regarding a scribe or assistive devices, if required.

Pay the application fee.

Review all information and submit the form.

Download and save the confirmation page.

Download the e-admit card before the examination.