UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Admit Card: Direct Download Link, Exam Schedule, and Guidelines

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the hall tickets for the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026. With 933 vacancies up for grabs, candidates are advised to download their documents promptly to avoid last-minute technical congestion before the exam date of May 24th, 2026.

How to Download Your UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Admit Card

To access your hall ticket, follow these steps strictly:

1. Navigate to the UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2026 Download Link - Click Here.
2. Select the notification link titled “e-admit card: civil services (preliminary) exam 2026.”
3. Log in using your unique Registration ID or roll number.
4. Input your credentials along with the displayed security code.
5. Submit the data to view your hall ticket on the screen.
6. Carefully review all instructions provided on the document before downloading and printing.

What to do if you forgot your Registration ID?

If you have misplaced your ID, visit the official portal, click the 'Forgot RID' option, and provide your registered email address and date of birth to recover your credentials.

UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Exam Schedule

The exam will be held in two sessions on May 24th, 2026. Please refer to the table below for exact timings:

Papers	Exam Starts	Exam Ends
Paper 1 (General Studies)	9:30 am	11:30 am
Paper 2 (CSAT)	2:30 pm	4:30 pm

Essential Exam Day Checklist

Candidates must adhere to the following protocols to ensure a smooth entry into the examination hall:

• Reach the exam center at least 60 minutes prior to the reporting time.
• Carry a clear hardcopy printout of the admit card (soft copies are not permitted).
• Bring a valid original Photo ID proof (e.g., PAN, Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter Card).
• Carry two recent passport-size photographs.
• Electronic devices are strictly prohibited.
• Maintain modest attire.

Mandatory Verification

Note that face authentication is now mandatory for entry. Ensure your physical appearance matches your application records to avoid verification delays.

Grievance Support

If you encounter any discrepancies or technical issues, contact the UPSC helpdesk during office hours (Monday–Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM):

• Helpline Numbers: 011-23381125, 011-23385271, 011-23098543
• Email Support: [email protected]

After the exam, you can track your performance status here: UPSC Prelims Result 2026 Released - Click to Check.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is face authentication mandatory at the exam center?

Yes, face authentication is mandatory for all candidates as part of the identity verification process before entry.

What to do if you forgot your registration ID?

You can retrieve your ID by using the 'Forgot RID' feature on the UPSC portal with your registered email and date of birth.

What to do in case of discrepancies in the admit card?

Report discrepancies immediately to the UPSC helpdesk via phone (011-23381125 / 011-23385271 / 011-23098543) or email ([email protected]).