UPSC Civil Services Main Examination 2026: Application Process and Exam Details
UPSC Opens Application for Civil Services Main Exam 2026
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched the application portal for the Civil Services (CS) Main Examination 2026. Candidates who have successfully passed the UPSC Prelims Examination 2026 can complete the Detailed Application Form (DAF) for the Main Examination until June 28. To access the DAF, candidates should visit the official UPSC website.
This portal allows candidates to submit their application forms and fees, update information regarding a scribe, and request large-font question papers.
Key Information on Registration and Admit Cards
**E-Admit Cards Issued Post DAF Submission; Main Exam Begins August 21**
Only those candidates who have cleared the Prelims 2026 are eligible to fill out the DAF for the UPSC CS Main Examination 2026. This year, more than 13,000 candidates have passed the Prelims. According to UPSC regulations, every candidate must log in to the portal and complete the DAF within the specified period. Failure to do so will prevent the issuance of e-admit cards for the Main Examination. Candidates who do not submit the DAF on time will be barred from participating in the Main Examination, which is set to start on August 21, 2026.
Steps to Complete the DAF for UPSC Main Examination 2026
**How to Fill the DAF**
1. Visit the official UPSC portal.
2. Log in using your registration credentials.
3. Verify your personal and educational details, and update any reservation-related information if necessary.
4. Carefully select your cadre preferences for the UPSC Main exam.
5. Review all entered details and submit the form.
6. Download and save the confirmation page for your records.
Understanding the UPSC Civil Services Main Exam Pattern
**Exam Structure**
The UPSC Civil Services Main exam consists of nine papers. This includes two qualifying language papers (English and Hindi), each worth 300 marks. Following these are an essay paper (250 marks) and four General Studies papers (GS I, GS II, GS III, and GS IV), each also carrying 250 marks. Additionally, candidates will take two papers in their chosen optional subject, each worth 250 marks. The merit list is compiled based on these seven papers, totaling 1,750 marks. Only those who qualify at this stage will be invited for the personality test (interview), which is valued at 275 marks.