UPSC Overhauls Exam Centre Allocation for PwBD Candidates in CSE & IFS 2026

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has introduced significant changes to its examination centre allocation system for the Civil Services Examination 2026 and the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination 2026, with a focus on improving accessibility for candidates with benchmark disabilities (PwBD). This move is designed to ensure that PwBD aspirants can secure their preferred examination centres without facing capacity-related barriers, and to make the selection process more inclusive.

UPSC Overhauled Centre Allocation Framework

Under the revised system, the existing capacity of each exam centre will be utilised by both PwBD and non-PwBD candidates initially. However, when a centre reaches full capacity, it will no longer be available to non-PwBD applicants, while PwBD candidates will still be able to select that centre. This approach removes traditional seat caps that often prevented disabled aspirants from securing their desired locations due to high application volumes. In addition, the UPSC will create additional capacity where necessary, ensuring that no PwBD candidate is denied their preferred exam centre. This is expected to benefit candidates appearing for major recruitment tests under the UPSC umbrella by offering continuity in choice and convenience, regardless of overall centre saturation.

UPSC Rationale and Enhanced Accessibility

UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar explained that an analysis of examination centre data over the past years showed that some high-demand locations — such as Delhi, Cuttack, Patna and Lucknow — tended to reach capacity early in the application process, making it difficult for PwBD candidates to secure those centres. With the revised mechanism, every PwBD aspirant will be assured of access to their preferred centre, thereby reducing logistical challenges during exam participation. The Commission has also introduced technological interventions to support these changes, including a revamped Online Application Portal. This redesigned system aims to simplify the application experience, reinforce procedural integrity, and offer features for improved candidate convenience across various stages of the examination cycle.

UPSC Overhauls Exam Expanded Centre Network and Features

Alongside the allocation overhaul, UPSC has expanded its network of exam centres for both the Prelims and Main stages. New locations such as Meerut, Kanpur, Bhubaneswar, Srinagar and Imphal have been added to reduce pressure on high-demand urban centres, enhancing accessibility for all candidates. The upgraded application platform also incorporates enhanced features, such as photo verification, face recognition and preference-based city selection, making the entire process more transparent and user-friendly. Candidates will be asked to indicate nearby cities they might prefer, which could influence future centre creation efforts.

UPSC Overhauls Exam: Implications for Aspirants

These reforms form part of UPSC’s broader efforts to make competitive examinations more equitable and accessible, while maintaining rigorous merit-based selection. By accommodating the needs of PwBD applicants and expanding centre capacity, UPSC aims to reduce exam-day difficulties and ensure an inclusive environment for candidates across all demographics. The Civil Services Examination and Indian Forest Service Examination continue to be conducted in multiple stages Preliminary, Main and Interview with the 2026 Prelims scheduled for 24 May 2026. Candidates are encouraged to leverage the updated portal and centre features as they complete their application processes.