UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions & Dress Code 2025

UPSC Prelims 2025 Exam Day Guidelines: Check reporting times, documents to carry, dress code, permissible and banned items, conduct rules, and health safety measures. Follow official instructions to avoid disqualification or entry denial.

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions & Dress Code 2025

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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Prelims is a critical milestone for aspirants aiming for civil services. Adhering to the prescribed exam day instructions is vital to avoid any last-minute issues. This guide provides detailed UPSC Prelims exam day instructions, including reporting times, permissible items, and conduct guidelines.

Also Read: UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions for Schedule and Reporting Times 2025

The UPSC Prelims 2025 is scheduled for Sunday, May 25, 2025, conducted in two sessions:

Session Paper Exam Timing Reporting Time Entry Closes
Morning General Studies (GS Paper I) 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM
Afternoon CSAT (Paper II) 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM 1:30 PM 2:00 PM

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions Key Notes:

  • Entry Closure: Gates close 30 minutes before exam start (9:00 AM/2:00 PM). Latecomers not admitted.
  • Documents Required: Printed e-Admit Card + Photo ID (as per UPSC guidelines).
  • Venue: Strictly as mentioned in the e-Admit Card.

Candidates must adhere to these reporting times.

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Admit Card Instructions

Ensure you carry the following items to the examination centre:

  • Admit Card: A printed copy of the e-Admit Card is mandatory.
  • Valid Photo ID: Carry an original government-issued photo identification (e.g., Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License).
  • Black Ballpoint Pens: Only black ballpoint pens are permitted for marking answers on the OMR sheet.
  • Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs, in case the photograph on the admit card is unclear.

Also Read: UPSC Prelims Timings 2025

UPSC Civil Services Prelims Exam 2024 – Key Instructions

Following are the key UPSC prelims instructions as issued by Union Public Service Commission:

Category Details
Exam Date 25th May 2025 (Sunday)
Admit Card – Only e-Admit Card (download and print from UPSC website)
– Preserve until final results
– No paper admit card issued
Documents to Carry – Printed e-Admit Card
– Photo ID (as per e-Admit Card)
If photo unclear: 2 passport-sized photos (named + dated) + undertaking
Name change proof: Gazette Notification + ID
Entry Rules Forenoon Session: Entry closes at 8:30 AM (Exam starts at 9:00 AM)
Afternoon Session: Entry closes at 1:30 PM (Exam starts at 2:00 PM)
Strictly prohibited: Entry after cutoff time or at wrong venue
Permissible Items – Black ballpoint pen (for OMR)
– Transparent water bottle (no labels)
– Simple analog watch (no smart features)
– Face mask, hand sanitizer
Prohibited Items – Mobile phones, smart/digital watches, electronics
– Books, notes, bags, jewelry, food
No storage facility: Banned items must be left outside
Disciplinary Actions – Cancellation of candidature
– FIR/police complaint
– Ban from future exams
Discrepancy Reporting Email errors in e-Admit Card (name/photo/QR code) to: uscsp-upsc@nic.in
Additional Notes – Verify all e-Admit Card details before exam
– OMR sheets must use black ballpoint pen only

Also Read: UPSC Prelims Exam Centers 2025

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions

Permissible Items Prohibited Items
Transparent water bottle (label-free) Bags, purses, or luggage
Transparent writing pad/clipboard (plain) Books, notes, or any reference material
Simple analog wristwatch (no smart features) Digital watches, smartwatches, calculators, or electronic gadgets
Face mask Food items
Small hand sanitizer bottle Jewellery (earrings, necklaces, rings, etc.)

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions: Dress Code

Prioritize comfort and modesty. Avoid bold prints, slogans, or flashy attire.

Category Guidelines Footwear Recommendation
Male Candidates Dress Code Smart casuals or formal wear (e.g., shirt with trousers). Light, breathable fabrics suited to weather. Comfortable shoes/slippers; avoid tight or flashy footwear.
Female Candidates Dress Code Traditional (saree/salwar kameez) or simple western (t-shirt with trousers). Minimal accessories. Flat sandals or comfortable shoes; avoid heels or fancy designs.

Also Read: UPSC Prelims 2025 Preparation Tips

  1.     No official dress code, but adherence to decorum is expected.
  2.     Avoid:
  • Clothing with pockets (to prevent suspicion of carrying notes).
  • Heavy jewelry or metallic items (may trigger metal detectors).
  1.     Focus: Comfort for long exam hours (4+ hours per session).

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions: Conduct Inside the Examination Hall

  • OMR Sheet Handling: Fill in your roll number and test booklet series code carefully. Any errors may lead to disqualification.
  • Follow Invigilator Instructions: Adhere to all instructions provided by the examination staff.
  • Maintain Silence: Silence must be maintained throughout the examination duration.
  • Preserve the Admit Card: Do not discard the admit card after the exam. It may be required for future stages or result access.
  • Read Special Instructions: Pay close attention to the “Special Instructions for Candidates” provided with the admit card and displayed outside the exam centre.

Also Read: What to Carry in UPSC Prelims 2025

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions: Health and Safety Measures

In light of ongoing health concerns, candidates are encouraged to:

  • Wear a face mask at all times.
  • Use hand sanitizer regularly.
  • Maintain social distancing norms as prescribed by the examination authorities.

Are you preparing for UPSC 2025? Join IAShub’s UPSC coaching batches to boost your preparation. Enroll now!

Adhering to these UPSC Prelims exam day instructions will help ensure a smooth and stress-free examination experience. Proper preparation, punctuality, and compliance with the guidelines are key to success.

UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions FAQs

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 Admit card, photo ID, black ballpoint pens, transparent water bottle, writing pad, analog watch, and face mask are allowed.

 Electronic devices, calculators, smartwatches, bags, study material, and jewellery are not allowed inside the exam hall.

Candidates should report by 8:30 AM for GS Paper I and by 1:30 PM for CSAT Paper II.

While there's no formal dress code, wear modest and simple clothing without large pockets or accessories.


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