Steps on How to Apply for UPSC Civil Services Examination

Candidates must submit their application for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) through the official online portal:

Official Website: http://www.upsconline.nic.in

The portal provides complete guidance on filling the application form, uploading documents, and making the required examination fee payment.

Instructions for Filling Out the UPSC Application Form

Submit Only One Application

UPSC advises that candidates submit only one application form. However, if multiple applications are submitted due to technical issues or unavoidable reasons:

• The application with the highest Registration ID (RID) will be considered the valid one.
• Ensure that the highest-RID application is complete in all respects, including:
  • Personal details
  • Examination centre selection
  • Photograph and signature upload
  • Payment of application fee
• Only the application with the highest RID will be accepted by UPSC.
• Application fee paid for one RID cannot be adjusted or transferred to any other RID.

Instructions for Candidates Already in Government or Private Employment

Candidates working in Government departments, PSUs, Government-owned bodies, or private organizations must apply directly through the UPSC online portal.

Those in Government Service — whether permanent, temporary, or work-charged (excluding casual or daily-wage employees) — are required to:

• Submit an undertaking confirming that they have informed their Head of Office / Department in writing about their application.

⚠️ IMPORTANT WARNING

If UPSC receives communication from a candidate's employer stating that permission is withheld for applying or appearing in the examination, the candidate’s application may be rejected and candidature may be cancelled at any stage.