How To Register For Upsc Exam (2026 Updated Guide)

Registering for the UPSC examination is the first official step in your civil services journey. The registration process is entirely online and requires careful attention to detail. Understanding the complete registration procedure, required documents, and common pitfalls can help you complete the process smoothly without any errors.

UPSC registration involves two parts - Part I (basic registration) and Part II (detailed application). This guide will walk you through the complete registration process for UPSC 2026, ensuring you don't miss any important step.

Registration Timeline

UPSC 2026 Registration Schedule:

• Notification Release: February 2026
• Registration Opens: Late February 2026
• Registration Closes: Late March 2026
• Duration: Approximately 3-4 weeks
• Last Date for Fee Payment: 1-2 days after registration closes

Important: Don't wait for the last day. Register at least 7-10 days before the deadline to avoid technical issues.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Visit UPSC Website

• Go to www.upsc.gov.in
• Click on 'Online Application for Various Examinations'
• Select 'Civil Services Examination'

Step 2: Part I Registration

• Click on 'Part I Registration'
• Fill basic details (Name, DOB, Email, Mobile)
• Submit and get Registration ID
• Save Registration ID and password

Step 3: Part II Application

• Login with Registration ID
• Fill detailed information
• Upload photo and signature
• Pay application fee
• Submit final application

Step 4: Confirmation

• Take printout of confirmation page
• Save application number
• Keep all details safe

Required Documents

For Registration:

1. Educational certificates
2. Category certificate (if applicable)
3. PwD certificate (if applicable)
4. Recent photograph (digital)
5. Signature (digital)
6. Valid email ID
7. Active mobile number
8. Payment method (card/net banking)

Document Specifications:

• Photo: 3.5cm × 4.5cm, JPEG, 40-50 KB
• Signature: JPEG, 10-20 KB
• Certificates: PDF format for upload

Registration Fee

Fee Structure:

• General/OBC (Male): ₹100
• Female candidates: Exempted
• SC/ST candidates: Exempted
• PwD candidates: Exempted

Payment Methods:

• Net Banking
• Credit/Debit Card
• UPI
• SBI Challan (offline)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Wrong photo/signature format
2. Incorrect personal details
3. Invalid email/mobile number
4. Last-minute registration
5. Not taking printout
6. Payment failures
7. Wrong exam center selection
8. Incomplete application

Conclusion

UPSC registration is a straightforward online process if done carefully. Start early, gather all required documents, fill details accurately, and submit well before the deadline. Once registered successfully, focus entirely on your preparation.

Use UPSC.AI's step-by-step registration guidance to complete the process without any errors. Our platform provides all necessary information and reminders to ensure smooth registration for UPSC 2026!