UPSC Mains 2026 Exam Begins Today; Check Shift-Wise Schedule, Timings and Admit Card Details

The UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2026 has started today, August 21, 2026, with the Essay paper being conducted in the morning shift. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is conducting the UPSC CSE Mains 2026 across August 21, 22, 23, 29 and 30. Candidates appearing for the examination can check the complete paper-wise schedule, shift timings, admit card details and important exam-day instructions below.

The first paper of the UPSC Mains 2026 is Paper I – Essay, scheduled from 9 AM to 12 Noon today. Unlike the other examination days, no paper is scheduled in the afternoon session on August 21. The examination will continue tomorrow with General Studies Paper I and Paper II in two shifts.

UPSC Mains 2026 Exam Schedule and Shift Timings

Candidates can check the complete UPSC Mains 2026 timetable and shift-wise paper schedule below.

Candidates should follow the timings printed on their e-Admit Card and reach the examination centre well before the prescribed entry time.

UPSC Mains 2026 Essay Paper Begins Today

The UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2026 is being conducted today, August 21, in the forenoon session from 9 AM to 12 Noon. It is the opening paper of the Civil Services Main Examination.

Candidates appearing for the Essay paper are required to follow the examination instructions issued by UPSC. The Commission has advised candidates to carry the required documents and follow the instructions mentioned on their e-Admit Cards.

The examination will resume on August 22 with General Studies Paper I in the morning and General Studies Paper II in the afternoon. General Studies Paper III and Paper IV will subsequently be conducted on August 23.

UPSC Mains Admit Card 2026: Important Details

The UPSC Mains Admit Card 2026 was released on August 14 on the official UPSC website. Candidates appearing for the examination can download the e-Admit Card using their registration details or other credentials specified by the Commission.

The admit card contains important information such as the candidate's name, roll number, examination centre, date and time of examination, photograph and signature. Candidates should carefully verify all details before appearing for the examination.

Candidates should carry a printed copy of the UPSC CSE Mains 2026 e-Admit Card along with a valid photo identity document to the examination centre. UPSC has also issued instructions regarding prohibited items and examination-day requirements.

UPSC CSE Mains 2026: What Papers Are Next?

After today's Essay paper, candidates will appear for the four UPSC General Studies Papers over August 22 and 23. GS Paper I and GS Paper II are scheduled for August 22, while GS Paper III and GS Paper IV will be conducted on August 23.

There will then be a gap before the examination resumes on August 29. The qualifying Indian Language paper will be held in the morning, followed by the English paper in the afternoon.

However, the final day August 30, will feature UPSC Optional Subject Paper 1 and Paper 2 in the morning and afternoon sessions, respectively. This will conclude the written stage of the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2026.

UPSC Mains 2026 Exam-Day Guidelines

Candidates should reach their examination centres early and carry all documents specified by UPSC. Electronic devices such as mobile phones and smartwatches are not permitted inside the examination venue. Candidates should also ensure that their admit card and identity documents are readily available for verification.

The Commission has also highlighted face authentication at the examination venue as part of its examination process. Candidates should therefore carefully follow all instructions issued by UPSC before entering the examination hall.

UPSC Mains 2026 FAQs