The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is all set to conduct the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 tomorrow, May 23. Lakhs of aspirants across the country will appear for this crucial exam, which serves as the first stage for selection into prestigious civil services like IAS, IPS, and IFS. It is essential for candidates to be well-prepared with the reporting time, allowed items, and prohibited objects to ensure a smooth examination experience.
Reporting Time and Exam Schedule
The UPSC Prelims 2025 will be held in two shifts. The first paper, General Studies (Paper I), will be conducted from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. The second paper, Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) or Paper II, will be held from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Candidates are advised to report to their respective examination centers at least one hour before the commencement of the exam. The entry gates will close 30 minutes before the start of each session. Latecomers will not be permitted under any circumstances.
Important Documents to Carry
- Admit Card: Print out the e-admit card from the official UPSC website. Ensure that the photograph and signature are clearly visible. Carry at least two copies.
- Photo ID Proof: Any one of the following: Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, or PAN card. The name on the ID must match the admit card.
- Passport-size Photographs: Carry at least two recent passport-size photographs (same as uploaded in the application).
- Stationery: Black ballpoint pen, pencil, eraser, and a transparent water bottle. Calculators, mobile phones, smartwatches, and electronic gadgets are strictly prohibited.
Do's and Don'ts for Exam Day
Do's
- Reach Early: Plan your journey to the exam center in advance. Consider traffic and weather conditions. Aim to reach at least 60 minutes before the exam.
- Verify Your Seat: Locate your assigned room and seat number as per the instructions at the center. Do not sit in any other candidate's place.
- Read Instructions Carefully: Listen to the invigilator's announcements and read the instructions on the question paper and OMR sheet thoroughly before answering.
- Use Only Black Ballpoint Pen: Fill in the OMR sheet with a black ballpoint pen only. Pencils are not allowed for final answers.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Take deep breaths if you feel anxious. Manage your time wisely and attempt questions you are confident about first.
Don'ts
- Don't Carry Prohibited Items: Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, calculators, electronic pens, or any other electronic gadgets are banned. Carrying them may lead to disqualification.
- Don't Bring Unnecessary Items: Avoid carrying bags, wallets, books, notes, or any paper materials. Only admit card, ID proof, and permitted stationery are allowed.
- Don't Use Unfair Means: Any form of cheating or malpractice will result in severe action, including a ban from future exams.
- Don't Leave Before Time: Candidates are not allowed to leave the exam hall before the scheduled end time of the session.
- Don't Panic: If you find a question difficult, move on to the next one. Negative marking applies for incorrect answers in both papers.
Important Reminders
Ensure that you have checked the official UPSC website for any last-minute updates or changes. Keep a printed copy of the admit card and ID proof handy. Dress comfortably in light clothing suitable for the weather. Reach the center well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. The UPSC Prelims is a crucial step in your career, so give it your best effort. Good luck to all aspirants!
