The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025, scheduled for May 25, 2025 (Sunday), is a critical step for lakhs of aspirants across India. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has laid out detailed exam day instructions, rules, and regulations to ensure a smooth and fair examination process. Failure to adhere to these instructions can lead to disqualification or denial of entry, so candidates must read and follow the guidelines carefully.
UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025 Exam Schedule & Reporting Time
The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 will be held on Sunday, May 25, 2025, in two sessions, morning and afternoon. Candidates must strictly follow the reporting time and exam guidelines to avoid disqualification.
| Session | Paper | Exam Time | Reporting Time | Gate Closes At |
| Morning | General Studies 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 |
Also Read: UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025
Do’s for UPSC Prelims Exam 2025
To avoid any complications and ensure a successful attempt, candidates must strictly adhere to the following do’s:
Carry Your UPSC Admit Card
- Take at least two clear, printed copies of your UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025.
- Ensure all details, especially your photo and signature, are visible.
- If your admit card photo is unclear, carry a valid original photo ID such as
Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License
Bring a Black Ballpoint Pen
- Only black ballpoint pens are permitted for filling OMR sheets.
- Avoid using gel pens, blue ink, pencils, or fountain pens.
- Carry at least two pens to be on the safe side.
Reach the Exam Centre Early
- Gate Closing Times
Morning Session Gates close at 9:00 AM
Afternoon Session Gates close at 2:00 PM
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early to accommodate security checks and room allocation.
Wear an Analog Watch
- Time management is key during the exam.
- Only analog (non-digital) watches are allowed. Smartwatches or fitness bands are banned.
Stay Calm and Composed
- Avoid anxiety. Trust your preparation.
- Focus on attempting easy questions first and managing time wisely.
- Don’t dwell too long on tough questions.
Don’ts for UPSC Prelims Exam 2025
Here are the major don’ts to be cautious about on exam day:
Do Not Carry Electronic Gadgets
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, earbuds, Bluetooth devices, etc. are strictly prohibited.
- There will be no storage facility at the center, so it’s best to leave gadgets at home.
- If unavoidable, bring a small bag to leave them outside the hall (at your own risk).
Avoid Any Kind of Malpractice
Do not engage in copying, cheating, signaling, or exchanging answer sheets.
UPSC has zero tolerance for malpractice. Offenders can be banned permanently from future exams.
Do Not Arrive Late
- UPSC does not permit late entries under any condition.
- Candidates arriving even a minute after the gate closes will be denied entry.
Avoid Flashy Clothing or Accessories
- Follow a simple, modest dress code. Wear breathable and comfortable clothing due to summer weather.
- Avoid Heavy jewelry, Metal accessories, Shoes with metal parts, Clothing with bold logos or political/religious messages
UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025 Checklist of Mandatory Items to Carry
To avoid any last-minute issues on the UPSC Prelims 2025 exam day, candidates must carry the following essential items to the UPSC Prelims 2025 Examination Centre. These items are either mandatory or recommended, based on exam guidelines issued by UPSC 2025.
| Item | Details |
| Admit Card | Carry two printed copies of the UPSC Prelims 2025 admit card. |
| Photo ID Proof | Bring the original ID (Aadhaar, Passport, PAN, Voter ID, or Driving License) that matches your admit card |
| Black Ball Pen | Carry at least two black ballpoint pens (only black ink is allowed for the OMR sheet). |
| Passport Photos | Keep two recent passport-size photos, especially if the photo on the admit card is unclear. |
| Analog Watch | Only simple analog watches are allowed. Digital or smartwatches are prohibited. |
Optional Items to Carry for UPSC Prelims Exam 2025
These items are not mandatory but can help make your exam experience smoother and more comfortable.
- Pencil: You can carry a pencil for rough work on the question paper. However, do not use it on the OMR sheet—only a black ballpoint pen is allowed for marking answers.
- Writing Pad: A small writing pad can be useful if the exam desk is shaky or uneven. It provides a firm surface to help you mark your OMR sheet cleanly and accurately.
- Transparent Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important during the exam. You can bring a transparent water bottle (without any labels or color), as only see-through bottles are allowed inside the exam hall.
- Energy Bar or Chocolate: Candidates with medical conditions like low blood sugar can carry a small energy bar or chocolate. It’s a good idea to confirm with exam center authorities beforehand to avoid any issues.
UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025 Items Strictly Prohibited
UPSC has a zero-tolerance policy for unfair practices and prohibited items. Carrying any of the following can result in immediate disqualification.
| Prohibited Item | Details |
| Mobile Phones | Even switched-off phones are not permitted in the exam hall |
| Electronic Devices | Includes smartwatches, calculators, fitness bands, earbuds, etc |
| Storage Devices | Pen drives, CDs, memory cards, or hard drives are banned. |
| Costly Items | Avoid jewelry, expensive accessories, or valuables no storage is provided. |
| Chits/Notes/Books | Carrying any written material is considered an unfair means and is punishable |
Also Read: UPSC Calendar 2026
UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025: Dress Code Guidelines
Though the UPSC Prelims Exam 2025 does not enforce a strict dress code, candidates are advised to dress modestly, comfortably, and in a way that facilitates smooth security clearance. Your attire should reflect discipline and practicality, especially considering the summer heat and the need for hassle-free checks at the exam centre.
For Male Candidates
- Opt for light, breathable clothing, smart casuals or formal wear are ideal.
- Avoid loud prints, slogans, or large logos.
- Wear simple slippers or shoes (no flashy or heavy footwear).
For Female Candidates
- Prefer salwar kameez, saree, or plain western wear with minimal accessories.
- Avoid metallic items, heavy jewelry, or clothes with extra pockets.
- Choose flat sandals or simple shoes, no heels or ornate footwear.
Conclusion
The UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025 are not just formalities they are rules of conduct that every serious aspirant must follow. From carrying the right documents to dressing appropriately and avoiding banned items, adhering to these instructions can help you focus on what truly matters, cracking the exam. Prepare well, arrive on time, stay confident, and most importantly, follow the rules. This is your moment. Make it count.
UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025 FAQs
Can I wear jeans and a T-shirt to the exam?
Yes, but make sure they are simple and modest without bold logos, prints, or metal accessories. Comfort and compliance with security checks are key.
Can I carry my admit card in digital format on my phone?
No. You must carry at least two printed copies of your admit card. Digital versions on mobile phones are not accepted.
Will there be any facility to store my phone or personal belongings at the exam center?
No. UPSC does not provide any storage facility. You are advised not to bring mobile phones or valuable items to the exam center.
Can I use correction fluid or whitener on the OMR sheet?
Not. Use only black ballpoint pens, and avoid overwriting or using correction fluid. Any tampering with the OMR sheet can lead to disqualification.
