UPSC Notification 2026 has introduced some of the most significant reforms seen in recent years. From a completely redesigned application system to stricter eligibility rules and Aadhaar-based verification, these changes directly impact every Civil Services aspirant.
For students preparing with Vivechna IAS & Judiciary Academy, understanding these updates is crucial to avoid application rejection and future disqualification.
This detailed guide explains all 14 major changes in UPSC CSE 2026, the new application process, eligibility restrictions, and important deadlines:
Overview of UPSC CSE 2026 Notification
The Union Public Service Commission has revamped the Civil Services Examination process with a focus on:
- Transparency
- Faster verification
- Reduced errors
- Stronger identity authentication
Last Date to Apply: 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM)
1. Four-Stage Online Application System Introduced
UPSC has launched a four-module application framework. Three modules are common for all UPSC exams, while one is exam-specific.
Step 1: Account Creation
- Register on the official UPSC portal
- Use a valid email ID and mobile number
- All UPSC communication will be sent here
Step 2: Universal Registration Number (URN)
- A one-time permanent URN is generated
- Valid for all future UPSC examinations
- Stores personal, contact, and ID details
Important: URN is created only once in a lifetime.
Step 3: Common Application Form (CAF)
- Applicable to all UPSC exams
- Includes:
- Personal details
- Educational qualifications
- Category & reservation details
- Identity proof
- Personal details
Step 4: Examination-Specific Module
- Select exam centre
- Pay fees
- Choose optional subject & medium
- Enter service preferences
2. Mandatory Live Photo Capture
For the first time, UPSC has made live photograph capture compulsory.
- Upload passport-size photo
- Capture live photo during form filling
- Both images must match current appearance
Blurred or mismatched photos may lead to rejection.
3. New Signature Upload Guidelines
Candidates must:
- Sign three times on plain white paper
- Use black ink only
- Scan and upload as per format
Unclear or incorrect signatures can invalidate the application.
4. Aadhaar-Based Verification Encouraged
UPSC strongly recommends using Aadhaar for identity verification due to faster authentication.
Other acceptable IDs:
- Voter ID
- PAN Card
- Passport
- Driving Licence
Aadhaar helps reduce verification delays at every stage.
5. No Correction or Withdrawal Allowed
A major change in UPSC CSE 2026:
- No form correction
- No withdrawal option
- No editing after final submission
Candidates must verify all details carefully before submission.
6. One-Time URN Profile Update Facility
- URN details can be updated only once
- Changes apply only to future applications
- Already submitted forms remain unchanged
Accuracy at the URN stage is critical.
7. Online Admit Card Only
- Admit cards will not be sent by post or email
- Download e-Admit Card from UPSC website
- Carry printed admit card + valid photo ID
8. Mandatory Face Authentication at Exam Centres
To curb impersonation, UPSC has introduced:
- Facial recognition
- ID verification
- Security frisking
Candidates should reach the centre well in advance.
9. Restrictions on Applying for UPSC CSE 2026
- IAS/IFS officers already in service cannot appear
- Candidates appointed to IAS/IFS after Prelims 2026 cannot appear for Mains
- IPS officers selected earlier cannot opt for IPS again
One-Time Improvement Opportunity (IPS & Group ‘A’)
Candidates allotted IPS or Group ‘A’ services through CSE 2026:
- Can appear once in CSE 2027
- Must take exemption from training
- Must choose only one service if selected again
Failure to follow rules may result in cancellation of both allocations.
10. Reduced Question Paper Representation Window
- Earlier: 7 days
- Now: 5 days only
- From 3rd day after exam till 7th day (6 PM)
11. Centre Allocation Rules for PwBD Candidates
- PwBD candidates can choose centres even if capacity is full
- Allocation based on first-apply-first-allot
12. OBC (NCL) & EWS Certificate Rules
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)
- Based on income for FY:
- 2022-23
- 2023-24
- 2024-25
- 2022-23
- Certificate issued after 01-04-2025
EWS Certificate
- Based on FY 2024-25 income & assets
- Issued between 01-04-2025 and application closing date
13. Mandatory Post-Prelims & Post-Mains Login
- Login required:
- Within 10 days after Prelims result
- Within 15 days after Mains result
- Within 10 days after Prelims result
Failure to login = Disqualification
14. Key Takeaways for Aspirants
- Register only once using URN
- Fill CAF with extreme care
- Upload clear photo & signature
- Prefer Aadhaar verification
- No corrections allowed after submission
- Download admit card online only
Why Aspirants Should Prepare with Vivechna IAS & Judiciary Academy
With increasing procedural complexity in UPSC CSE 2026, expert guidance is more important than ever. Vivechna IAS & Judiciary Academy provides:
- Updated UPSC-focused guidance
- Personalised mentorship
- Judiciary + UPSC integrated preparation
- Form-filling & compliance support
If you are preparing for UPSC, Judiciary and other , you can explore structured preparation at Vivechna IAS & Judiciary Academy.
FAQs on UPSC Notification 2026
Q1. Is Aadhaar mandatory for UPSC CSE 2026?
No, but Aadhaar is strongly recommended for faster verification.
Q2. Can I edit my UPSC form after submission?
No. UPSC has removed correction and withdrawal facilities.
Q3. What is the Universal Registration Number (URN)?
URN is a permanent ID generated once and used for all UPSC exams.
Q4. Is live photo capture compulsory?
Yes. Both uploaded and live photographs are mandatory.
Q5. Can IPS officers re-appear for IPS?
No. IPS officers cannot opt for IPS again through UPSC.
