UPSC CSE Prelims Admit Card 2026 Out: Download Link & Exam Schedule

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially published the hall tickets for aspirants appearing in the upcoming Civil Services Examination. Aspirants can now retrieve their credentials through the official portal. With 933 available vacancies up for grabs in this year's cycle, competition is bound to be intense as candidates prepare for the crucial screening round.

The official document was issued by the commission on 15th May 2026. Candidates are advised to secure their hard copies early, as the active download window remains accessible right up until the examination date on 24th May 2026. For those tracking results and post-exam updates, you can also keep an eye on developments via UPSC Prelims Result 2026 Out - Click to Check.

UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Schedule & Shift Timings

Both General Studies (Paper 1) and CSAT (Paper 2) will take place on the same day in two separate blocks. Review the shift timings below:

Papers	Exam Starts	Exam Ends
Paper 1	9:30 am	11:30 am
Paper 2	2:30 pm	4:30 pm

How to Download UPSC Admit Card from the Official Website

Follow these structured steps to successfully access and download your examination document:

1. Visit the official website of UPSC at UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2026 Download Link - Click Here.
2. Click on the link mentioned “e-admit card: civil services (preliminary) exam 2026.”
3. Choose to log in using either your registration ID or roll number.
4. Now enter your credentials and security code as prompted.
5. Click on the submit button, and your UPSC admit card appears on the screen.
6. Carefully read and accept the exam day instructions before downloading your admit cards.

Checklists for Exam Day and Documentation

Important Instructions for the UPSC Prelims Exam Day

• You have to reach the exam centre at least 60 minutes before the reporting time
• You must carry a valid Photo ID proof along with your admit card
• Bring a clear printout of your admit card (no soft copy will be accepted)
• Avoid carrying any unwanted or electronic devices to the exam centre,
• Dress modestly, and stay calm during the examination.

What Documents to Carry Along with the Admit Card?

• Photograph: Candidates must keep two passport-size photographs.
• Admit card: The UPSC Prelims Admit Card hardcopy is a mandatory document to be carried out during the exam.
• Other documents: Photo ID Proof like PAN Card/Aadhaar/Passport, E-Aadhaar with a photograph/permanent driving license/voter’s card/ Bank Passbook with photo ID proof.

Revised Guidelines & Helpdesk Support

Please note that face authentication and identity verification are mandatory at the exam centre under revised examination guidelines.

If you encounter any discrepancies, reach out through the official channels:

• Helpline numbers- 011-23381125 / 011-23385271 / 011-23098543
• Email ID- [email protected]
• Office hours: Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5 PM

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is face authentication mandatory at the exam centre?

Under the revised examination guidelines, all candidates appearing for the UPSC CSE Prelims are required to undergo mandatory face authentication and identity verification procedures before gaining entry into the examination hall.

What to do if you forgot your registration ID?

If you have misplaced your registration ID, you can retrieve it via the 'Forgot RID' option on the UPSC portal by providing your registered email address and date of birth.

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

Should you identify any discrepancies or incorrect details on your admit card, it is imperative that you report the error to the UPSC helpdesk immediately through the official communication channels.

When is the UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 exam scheduled?

The UPSC Civil Services Examination Prelims 2026 is scheduled to be conducted on 24th May 2026 across two distinct shifts for General Studies and CSAT papers.