UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 begins today: Key exam day instructions, strict guidelines on admit cards, timing & prohibited items

UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 exam underway: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) Preliminary 2025 is being held today, May 25, 2025, in two shifts across various exam centres in the country.

The first shift began at 9:30 am, while the second shift is scheduled to commence at 2:30 pm. Aspirants have been advised to follow strict instructions and exam day guidelines to avoid any last-minute hurdles or risk disqualification.The commission has reiterated the importance of punctuality, proper documentation, and adherence to the dress code and other rules. Entry into the exam hall closes 30 minutes before the commencement of each session.

Therefore, candidates are advised to arrive well in advance at their respective venues. No entry will be permitted after the gate closure.Mandatory documents and items for exam dayCandidates appearing for the UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 must carry a printout of their e-admit card, a valid photo identity card with the number mentioned on the admit card, and a black ballpoint pen. The admit cards were released by UPSC on May 13, 2025, and are available for download from the official website — upsc.gov.in.

In cases where the photograph on the admit card is unclear, or where the name and date of the photograph are missing, candidates are required to bring two recent passport-size photographs (with name and date of photograph mentioned) for each session, along with a valid photo ID. Failing to meet these criteria may lead to denial of entry to the examination hall.Strict rules on prohibited items and disqualificationUPSC has enforced a strict ban on certain items.

Candidates are not allowed to bring bags, mobile phones (even in switched-off mode), digital or smartwatches, electronic gadgets, books, or any valuable items to the exam centre. If a candidate brings any of these items, they must arrange for their safe-keeping outside the exam venue. UPSC or venue supervisors will not provide storage facilities for such belongings and will not be held responsible for any loss.Violation of these instructions may result in serious disciplinary action, including disqualification from the examination, filing of an FIR, or banning the candidate from future UPSC examinations.

Candidates must also avoid any form of misconduct or malpractice, as per the rules mentioned in the official notification.Dress code and permitted itemsCandidates are permitted to wear normal or simple wristwatches. Only black ballpoint pens are to be used to mark answers. Answers written with any other type of pen will not be evaluated. Alongside admit cards and ID proof, only essential stationery like pencils and permitted photographs may be carried.

How to download the UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 admit card

Step 1: Visit the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in.Step 2: Click on the ‘Admit Cards’ tab visible on the homepage.Step 3: Select the link for ‘e-Admit Card for Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2025’.Step 4: Read the instructions carefully and click on the ‘Yes’ button to proceed.Step 5: Enter your registration ID or roll number along with date of birth to download and print the admit card.Direct link to download the UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 admit card Candidates advised to act promptly in case of discrepanciesIf there is any mismatch or error in the admit card, such as incorrect name, unclear photograph, or issues with the QR code, candidates must immediately notify the commission via email at [email protected]. Prompt action will help avoid any inconvenience on the exam day.The UPSC CSE Prelims is a gateway to one of India’s most prestigious career paths, and the commission expects aspirants to comply fully with the rules to ensure a smooth and fair examination process.