UPSC CSE Mains 2026 Begins: UPSC CSE Mains 2026 Begins, QPReP Opens From August 31

UPSC CSE Mains 2026 Begins: The UPSC Civil Services Main Examination 2026 has begun, with thousands of candidates appearing for one of the country’s most competitive examinations. The written examination is being conducted on August 21, 22, 23, 29 and 30.

The examination is scheduled in two sessions each day. The morning session runs from 9 am to noon, while the afternoon session is scheduled from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Candidates have been advised to reach their respective examination centres well before the reporting time to avoid last minute problems.

An admit card is mandatory for entry into the examination hall. Candidates should also carry a valid government issued photo identity document for verification. Checking the examination centre address and route in advance can help avoid unnecessary delays on the day of the test.

The commission has also reminded candidates about restrictions inside examination centres. Mobile phones, smart devices, Bluetooth equipment, earphones, pagers and other electronic gadgets are not permitted. Candidates should therefore avoid carrying prohibited items, as examination centres may not provide facilities to store them.

Candidates who find an issue with a question paper will get an opportunity to submit their representations through the Question Paper Representation Portal, known as QPReP.

The portal is scheduled to remain open from August 31 to September 4, 2026. This means candidates will have five days after the examination schedule to raise their concerns regarding the question papers.

UPSC has specified that such representations must be submitted through the designated online portal. Requests sent through email, post or other methods will not be considered under the stated procedure.

With the examination underway, candidates should avoid putting themselves under additional pressure by attempting to cover completely new topics at the last moment. A focused revision of important concepts, examples and answer writing approaches can be more useful.

Candidates should also keep their admit cards and identification documents ready before leaving for the examination centre. Reaching the venue early will provide enough time to complete the required formalities without rushing.

Managing time inside the examination hall will be equally important. Candidates should read each question carefully, plan their answers and avoid spending excessive time on a single question.

Adequate sleep and a calm approach can also make a difference during the examination days. Rather than worrying about the entire syllabus, candidates can concentrate on the paper in front of them and use their preparation effectively.

Once the examinations are completed, candidates who have concerns about any question can use the QPReP facility during the specified window from August 31 to September 4.