UPSC Mains Exam 2025: UPSC Civil Services Mains 2025 starts. Read these important guidelines before going to the exam

UPSC Civil Services Mains 2025 starts from today, candidates must reach the examination hall on time with admit card and ID proof. Only pen, pencil and a water bottle are allowed in the exam.

The country's top and toughest exam UPSC Civil Services Main Examination (UPSC CSE) is starting from today. Admit cards have already been issued for the candidates. This year the main exam will be conducted in two shifts between August 22 and August 31. The morning shift is running from 9 am to 12 noon, while the afternoon session will run from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm.

Who are eligible for this exam?

A total of 14,161 candidates have been successful in this year's Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 results. These candidates are now eligible to appear in the main exam. UPSC Mains written is an important part of the selection process. Candidates who pass the main exam will then be called for personality test or interview.

What to carry and what not to carry in the exam?

It is mandatory for the candidates to carry the admit card to enter the examination hall. The admit card should have the photo of the candidate. Apart from this, identity proof (ID Proof) will also have to be carried along. According to the reporting timing, the candidates of the morning shift should report by 8:30 am and the candidates of the afternoon shift by 2 pm. After this no candidate will be allowed to enter the exam hall.

UPSC has given clear instructions that no electronic goods of any kind should be taken to the examination hall. This includes mobile, smartwatch, pager, camera, gadgets and any type of communication device. Strict action can be taken against the candidate for doing so. Candidates have been advised not to bring their bags or expensive items to the exam hall, as there is no facility to keep it from the commission. Only pen, pencil and water bottle are allowed.

Special instructions for girls

Candidates are advised to wear light clothes and not wear any kind of metal jewellery in the exam. This will make the security check and entry process simple and fast.

Importance of the exam

UPSC Civil Services Mains is not just a written exam, but it is the first important step for selection in top services like Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS). Candidates scoring good marks in this exam will appear in the interview round and will be ready for final selection.

Tips for candidates

Keep the admit card and identity proof correct and handy.
Reach the exam venue on time.
Leave unnecessary items at home.
Wear light and comfortable clothes.
Carry only the essentials.