May 25 UPSC Prelims: What to Carry, What to Avoid, Exam Rules

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will conduct the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 on Sunday, May 25, across designated centres nationwide. The test will take place in two phases—morning and afternoon—at 9:30 am and 2:30 pm respectively. Entry gates will close precisely 30 minutes before each shift begins.

Candidates must reach their assigned centres well in advance. Latecomers will be denied entry regardless of the reason.

Examinees must carry a printed copy of the e-admit card along with an original valid photo identification document. The personal ID must exactly match the information on the admit card.

In case the admit card photograph is unclear, missing, or does not show the name and date, candidates are required to bring two recent passport-sized photos (with name and date printed) and an undertaking form.

Only black ballpoint pens may be used to mark answers on the Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets. Use of any other pen will result in non-evaluation of responses.

A simple analogue wristwatch is permitted for time management. Digital watches, smartwatches, and any wearable tech remain strictly prohibited.

Candidates are barred from carrying the following items:

* Bags, purses, or any personal storage

* Mobile phones, whether switched on or off

* Smartwatches, fitness trackers, or digital devices

* Notes, books, or printed materials

* Multifunctional watches or gadgets

There will be no facility to deposit belongings at the venue. UPSC has clarified that candidates must make their own arrangements and that the Commission will not be liable for any loss or theft.

Entry to the exam centre will close at 9:00 am for the first session and at 2:00 pm for the second. UPSC has confirmed that no exceptions will be made.

Any breach of examination rules, including impersonation or carrying banned items, may lead to police action, disqualification, or permanent debarment from future UPSC examinations.

Candidates with discrepancies in admit card details, such as mismatched names, unclear QR codes, or photo errors, must report immediately to the Commission at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).

Session Timing Overview

* Morning Paper: Starts at 9:30 am; gate closes at 9:00 am

* Afternoon Paper: Starts at 2:30 pm; gate closes at 2:00 pm

The UPSC urges candidates to read the instructions on the admit card thoroughly and comply with all directives to ensure smooth conduct of the examination.