UPSC Introduces Face Authentication for Exams: Candidates Must Clear Biometric Verification Before Entry

By Siddhi Jain | Jan 13, 2026, 16:45 IST

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has taken a major step to strengthen exam security by introducing AI-based face authentication for all its recruitment examinations. Under the new system, candidates will be allowed to appear for UPSC exams only after successful biometric face verification at the examination centre. This move aims to prevent impersonation, enhance transparency, and ensure the integrity of one of India’s most prestigious examination processes.

According to official information, face authentication will now be mandatory for all UPSC recruitment exams, including high-profile examinations such as the Civil Services Examination (IAS, IFS, IPS), NDA, CDS, and other competitive tests conducted by the commission.

Pilot Project Successfully Tested

Before implementing the system nationwide, UPSC conducted a pilot project in Gurugram, where the technology was tested on candidates appearing for exams. The results were encouraging. As per UPSC officials, each candidate’s verification took only 8–10 seconds, allowing smooth and quick entry into exam centres without causing delays.

The pilot test was carried out during the NDA (National Defence Academy) and NA (Naval Academy) Examination II, 2025, and the CDS (Combined Defence Services) Examination II, 2025, held on September 14, 2025. Following the successful trial, the commission decided to roll out the system across all future UPSC examinations.

UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar stated that the new technology significantly reduced verification time while improving accuracy, making the entry process faster and more efficient.

How Face Authentication Works in UPSC Exams

The new verification process is powered by AI-supported facial recognition technology. Here’s how it functions:

At the exam centre, candidates will first undergo standard document verification.
They must present their admit card along with a valid original photo ID.
At the entry gate, candidates will stand in front of a camera installed for facial scanning.
The system will match the live facial image with the photograph uploaded during UPSC registration.
Once the match is successful, the candidate will be granted entry into the examination hall.

This system ensures that only the genuine registered candidate is allowed to appear for the exam, effectively preventing cases of proxy candidates or identity fraud.

Why UPSC Introduced Face Authentication

According to officials, the primary objective of this move is to maintain the fairness and credibility of UPSC examinations. Over the years, competitive exams across the country have faced challenges related to impersonation and unfair practices. By adopting biometric face authentication, UPSC aims to set a new benchmark in exam security and efficiency.

In an official note published on the commission’s website, UPSC confirmed that facial authentication at exam centres will now be compulsory for all candidates appearing in its recruitment examinations.

Important Instructions for Candidates

To ensure a smooth experience on exam day, UPSC has issued several important guidelines for aspirants:

1. Upload a Recent Photograph

Candidates must upload a latest, clear, and high-quality photograph while filling out the application form. Old, blurred, or unclear photos may cause issues during AI-based verification.

2. Carry Mandatory Documents

Despite the introduction of face authentication, candidates must still carry:

A printed copy of the admit card
An original valid photo ID such as Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID

3. Reach the Exam Centre Early

Candidates are advised to arrive well in advance and stand in the verification queue to avoid last-minute stress or delays.

What This Means for UPSC Aspirants

The introduction of face authentication marks a significant technological upgrade in UPSC’s examination process. While it adds an extra layer of verification, it also ensures a fair and transparent system for all aspirants. With verification taking only a few seconds per candidate, the process is expected to be smooth and time-efficient.

Candidates preparing for upcoming UPSC exams should stay updated with official notifications and ensure that their application details, especially photographs, are accurate and up to date.

Conclusion

By making AI-based face authentication mandatory, UPSC has reinforced its commitment to conducting secure, credible, and transparent examinations. This initiative not only safeguards the interests of genuine candidates but also strengthens trust in the recruitment process. Aspirants are advised to follow all guidelines carefully and be prepared for biometric verification on exam day as UPSC moves toward a more technology-driven examination system.