How to apply for the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2026 online. This easy, step-by-step guide explains registration, OTR, documents, fees, important dates, and direct links.
The Union Public Service Commission has released the notification process for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026. This exam is conducted to recruit candidates for prestigious posts such as IAS, IPS, IFS, and other central services.
If you are planning to apply for the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2026, this article will help you understand the complete online application process in simple English, with important links, tables, and clear steps.
Before applying, always read the official notification carefully.
Important Dates – UPSC CSE 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start | As per UPSC notification |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 February 2026 |
| Prelims Exam | 2026 (Official schedule) |
| Mains Exam | As notified |
Official and Important Links
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| UPSC Official Website | https://www.upsc.gov.in |
| UPSC Online Application | https://upsconline.nic.in |
| One Time Registration (OTR) | https://upsconline.nic.in |
| UPSC Notification PDF | https://www.upsc.gov.in/examinations |
Step 1: Create Account (One Time Registration – OTR)
Before filling any UPSC form, you must complete One Time Registration (OTR).
How to Create OTR Account
- Visit UPSC Online Portal
- Click on Create Account
- Accept declaration and proceed
- Verify Email ID using OTP
- Verify Mobile Number using OTP
- Create a strong password (uppercase, lowercase, number, special character)
- Submit and generate Universal Registration Number (URN)
Your URN will be sent to both email and mobile.
Step 2: Login to UPSC Dashboard
You can login using:
- URN + Password
- Email ID + Password
- Mobile Number + Password
After login, your dashboard will open.
Step 3: Complete Universal Registration Profile
Personal Details Required
- Full Name (as per Class 10 certificate)
- Gender
- Date of Birth
- Father’s Name
- Mother’s Name
Make sure details match your Class 10 certificate.
Step 4: Class 10 (Matriculation) Details
You must enter:
- Board Name
- State / UT
- Year of Passing
- Roll Number
- Certificate Number
- Marks / CGPA
- Upload Class 10 Certificate & Marksheet (PDF, 50–300 KB)
File name format:board_certificate.pdf
You can also fetch documents using DigiLocker.
Step 5: Aadhaar Verification
You can choose any one option:
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar OTP | Best and recommended |
| Aadhaar Virtual ID | Allowed |
| Without Aadhaar | Must reach exam center 1 hour early |
If Aadhaar is used, OTP verification is mandatory.
Step 6: Upload Documents
You must upload:
| Document | File Size | File Name |
|---|---|---|
| Photograph | 20–200 KB | photo.jpg |
| Live Photo | Mobile Capture | Auto |
| Signature (Triple) | 20–100 KB | signature.jpg |
| Photo ID | id_card.pdf |
Triple Signature:
You must sign three times on the given UPSC format using black pen.
Step 7: Fill Common Application Form
Details Required
- Nationality
- Mother Tongue
- Domicile State
- Marital Status
- Place of Birth
- Address (Present & Permanent)
Step 8: Parents & Community Details
Community Options
- General
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)
- SC
- ST
- EWS
Upload valid category certificate if applicable.
File name example:caste_certificate.pdf
Step 9: Disability (PwBD) – If Applicable
- Disability Type
- Percentage (40% or more)
- Certificate Number
- Issuing Authority
- Upload Disability Certificate
Step 10: Educational Qualification
You must enter details starting from Class 12.
| Level | Status |
|---|---|
| 12th / Diploma | Completed / Appearing |
| Graduation | Completed / Appearing |
| Post-Graduation | Optional |
Details include:
- University / Board
- Course Name
- Subjects
- Marks / CGPA
- Medium of Study
Step 11: UPSC Exam Preference
Select:
- Civil Services Exam
- Indian Forest Service (IFS)
- Both (if eligible)
Choose:
- Optional Subject
- Exam Language
- Exam Centers (Prelims & Mains)
- Service Preferences (IAS, IPS, IFS, etc.)
Step 12: Socio-Economic Information
UPSC asks basic survey questions like:
- Urban / Rural background
- Parents’ education
- Annual family income
- Coaching attended (if any)
These do not affect selection.
Step 13: Application Fee Payment
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC | ₹100 |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Female | ₹0 |
Payment Modes
- UPI
- Debit / Credit Card
- Net Banking
After successful payment, your form is finally submitted.
FAQs – UPSC Civil Services Exam 2026
1. What is the last date to apply for UPSC CSE 2026?
The last date to apply online is 24 February 2026.
2. Is One Time Registration mandatory?
Yes, without OTR you cannot apply for any UPSC exam.
3. Can I apply without Aadhaar?
Yes, but you must reach the exam center 1 hour early with valid photo ID.
4. What is the minimum qualification for UPSC CSE?
A graduate degree from a recognized university.
5. Can final-year students apply?
Yes, if they can submit proof before the Mains exam.
6. Is coaching mandatory for UPSC?
No. Many candidates clear UPSC with self-study.
