What to Carry in UPSC Prelims 2025? Rules & Regulations!

Read detailed guide on what to carry in UPSC Prelims exam 2025 centre, including permitted and prohibited items, and ensure a smooth UPSC Prelims experience and avoid being denied entry to the UPSC Prelims Center

What to Carry in UPSC Prelims 2025? Rules & Regulations

THEIASHUB

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Prelims is a significant step in the Civil Services Examination journey. Proper preparation involves not only studying but also knowing exactly what to bring to the exam centre. This guide provides a detailed list of items to carry, ensuring compliance with exam regulations and a hassle-free experience on exam day.

Also Read: UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025

What To Carry In UPSC Prelims 2025 List

Following is the checklist of items allowed and not allowed at UPSC Prelims Exam Center. There may be new additions in the checklist which will be updated as soon as UPSC Prelims admit card is released.

Also Read: UPSC Prelims Timings 2025

What to carry in UPSC Prelims: Items to Carry vs. Items Not Allowed

Essential Items to Carry in UPSC Prelims

Items Not Allowed in UPSC Prelims Exam Hall

1. Admit Card (Printed Copy) 1. Electronic Devices
– Must have a clear photograph – Mobile phones, calculators
– Additional ID may be required if photo is unclear – Smartwatches, digital watches, Bluetooth devices
2. Valid Photo ID (Original) 2. Bags & Purses
– Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License – Storage facilities may not be available
3. Black Ballpoint Pens (2-3) 3. Study Material
– Only black ink allowed for OMR – Books, notes, or any written material
4. Passport-Sized Photos (2) 4. Jewellery & Accessories
– Required if admit card photo is unclear – Avoid rings, necklaces, earrings
5. Simple Analog Watch 5. Food Items
– No digital features allowed – Generally prohibited (check with authorities for exceptions)
6. Transparent Water Bottle
– No labels or markings
7. Transparent Writing Pad
– No writings or markings
8. Face Mask & Hand Sanitizer

Also Read: UPSC Prelims Exam Centers 2025

What to Carry in UPSC Prelims: Do’s and Don’ts at UPSC Prelims Exam Centres

The commission issues a list of instructions to be followed at the exam centre in advance. Candidates must ensure that they keep in mind the do’s and don’ts at the UPSC Prelims Exam Centres as mentioned in the guidelines.

Do’s at UPSC Prelims Exam Centres Include the following:

  • Arrive at the UPSC Prelims exam centre well before the reporting time.
  • Double-check all your documents such as your UPSC Prelims admit card before leaving for the exam centre.
  • Follow directions given by the exam invigilators at the designated exam centre.
  • Maintain silence during the UPSC Prelims exam.
  • Cross-check the question booklet and OMR sheet and inform the invigilator about any torn pages or other issues.

Adhere to these Don’ts at UPSC Prelims Exam Centres

  • Don’t be late for the exam centre in both sessions.
  • Don’t carry any prohibited items, such as mobile phones , inside the exam hall.
  • Don’t wear a digital or smartwatch, which is not allowed.
  • Don’t carry a bag or notes inside the exam centre for UPSC Prelims.
  • Don’t indulge in any form of malpractice, such as cheating during the exam.

Also Read: UPSC Prelims 2025 Preparation Tips

What to Carry in UPSC Prelims Exam 2025 List

  1. First and foremost, candidates must remember to carry their UPSC Prelims E-Admit Card. This document serves as the entry ticket to the exam centre and is absolutely indispensable.
  2. Candidates should bring a valid photo ID proof whose number is printed on the E Admit card. such as Aadhar card, passport, driving licence, or voter ID card. This is required for identity verification purposes and is another non-negotiable item.
  3. If the photo is not visible on the E-admit card, candidates are required to bring two photographs (one for each session) and a valid ID proof for verification purposes, along with an undertaking.
  4. Candidates should carry several black ballpoint pens for writing purposes. The UPSC exam requires the use of black ink for filling out the OMR sheets, and it’s advisable to have backups in case a pen malfunctions or runs out of ink. (Answers with any pen other than black will not be evaluated.)
  5. A simple watch can be a valuable asset during the exam. While digital watches are not allowed, candidates can bring analog watches to keep track of time.
  6. It’s also advisable to carry a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the exam. However, candidates should be mindful of the fact that the water bottle should be transparent. Some exam centres provide water to the candidates; therefore, water bottles may not be allowed there.
  7. Stay updated with the latest UPSC notifications and instructions before the exam date for detailed information on items to carry.

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Being well-prepared with the right items ensures a smooth and stress-free experience on the day of the UPSC Prelims. Adhering to the guidelines not only reflects your discipline but also allows you to concentrate fully on the exam itself.

What To Carry In UPSC Prelims FAQs

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No, wearing jewellery is discouraged. It's best to avoid items like earrings, necklaces, or rings to ensure compliance with exam regulations.

Rings are generally discouraged. To avoid any issues, it's advisable not to wear rings during the exam.

No, calculators are strictly prohibited in the UPSC Prelims exam. All calculations must be done manually.

Yes, a transparent writing pad or clipboard is allowed. Ensure it has no writings or markings.


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