When will UPSC prelims admit card 2026 be released? Here's what we know so far

The Union Public Service Commission is expected to release the Civil Services Preliminary Examination (CSE) admit card 2026 shortly on its official website, upsc.gov.in. The document is a mandatory entry pass for candidates appearing in one of the country’s most competitive examinations. The UPSC admit cards are usually issued 10-15 days before the exam. Last year, the hall ticket was issued on May 14, when the exams were held on May 25, 2025. It can be expected in the similar timeline this year as well.

The UPSC Prelims 2026 is scheduled to be held on May 24, 2026. With the exam date approaching, candidates are advised to keep their login credentials ready and regularly check the official portal for updates.

Admit card to act as entry document

The admit card will not only allow entry into the examination centre but will also function as an identity verification document on the exam day. Without it, candidates will not be permitted to sit for the test.

Once released, candidates will be able to download the admit card by logging into the UPSC portal using their registration details.

The hall ticket will carry key information such as: Candidate’s name, roll number, examination centre details, and reporting time.

UPSC Prelims admit card 2026: Steps to download

Candidates can follow the steps below to access their admit card:

• Go to the website upsc.gov.in
• Click on the link that says “UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2026” from the homepage.
• This will lead you to the login page of the e-admit card.
• Login by providing either Registration ID or Roll Number.
• Enter your Date of Birth and Captcha code.
• Submit and get your admit card.
• Keep the document saved on your devices.
• Take a print of the UPSC prelims admit card.

Candidates must carry a printed copy of the admit card along with a valid photo identity proof to the examination centre. Entry will be strictly denied without these documents.

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