The UPSC Prelims Exam 2025 is scheduled to be held on 25th May 2025, and lakhs of aspirants are gearing up for this crucial stage of the Civil Services Examination. While academic preparation is vital, being aware of the items to carry and avoid at the exam centre is equally important. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has issued strict guidelines in the admit card to ensure smooth conduct of the examination. Here’s a detailed guide on what to carry in UPSC Prelims exam and what not to carry to the UPSC Prelims exam centre.
What to Carry in UPSC Prelims Exam Centre Key Items
Here is a complete list of items that every aspirant what to carry in UPSC Prelims exam centre to avoid disqualification or last-minute issues:
UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025
- It is mandatory to carry the printed copy of your e-Admit Card.
- The admit card is expected to be released by 17th May 2025 on the official UPSC website.
- Entry will not be permitted without this document.
Also Read: UPSC Prelims Exam 2025 Timings
Valid Photo Identity Proof
- Carry the original photo ID proof whose number is mentioned on the admit card.
- Accepted ID proofs include:
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport
- PAN Card
- Driving Licence
- Voter ID Car
- If the photo on the e-admit card is unclear, you must bring:
- Two recent passport-size photographs (one for each session)
- A valid ID
- A signed undertaking
Also Read: UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025
Black Ballpoint Pen
- Only black ballpoint pens are allowed for marking answers on the OMR sheet.
- Carry 2–3 pens as a backup in case one malfunctions.
Simple Analog Watch
- Digital watches, smartwatches, or watches with calculators are not allowed.
- A simple analog watch can help manage time during the exam.
Transparent Water Bottle
- A transparent water bottle is permitted unless restricted by the exam centre.
- Some centres provide drinking water; check the guidelines mentioned on your admit card.
Essential Medications (if any)
- If you’re under medication, you can carry your medicines.
- Inform the invigilators in advance at the exam hall.
Prohibited Items at UPSC Prelims Exam Centres
It’s very important to know the prohibited items at UPSC Prelims Exam Centre. If you bring any of the banned items, your exam may be cancelled, and strict action can be taken against you by UPSC. To avoid any trouble on exam day, do not carry the following items.
| Category | Examples of Prohibited Items |
| Electronic Devices | Mobile phones, Smartwatches, Calculators, Digital watches, Programmable devices |
| Storage Devices | Pen drives, Memory cards, Hard drives, USB drives |
| Communication Tools | Bluetooth devices, Earphones, Wireless earbuds, Wi-Fi gadgets |
| Books and Notes | Textbooks, Notes, Printed materials, Cheat sheets |
| Costly/Valuable Items | Expensive jewelry, Costly accessories, Large amounts of cash |
| Bags and Purses | Backpacks, Handbags, Laptop bags, Pouches |
| Food and Drinks | Packaged food, Snacks, Beverages (except transparent water bottles) |
Also Read: UPSC Calendar 2026
Documents Required for UPSC Prelims Exam 2025
To maintain the transparency and fairness of the examination process, UPSC mandates specific documents both during application and on the day of the exam:
At the Exam Centre
- Printed UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025
- One Valid Photo ID Proof
- Two Passport Size Photographs (if the photo on the admit card is unclear)
For Application Verification (Already Submitted Online)
- Recent passport-size photograph (with name and date)
- Scanned signature
- Scanned ID proof
- Proof of Age (Matriculation or School Leaving Certificate)
- Educational Qualification Certificate
- Category/Disability Certificate (if applicable)
Allowed Items at UPSC Prelims Exam Centre
When appearing for the UPSC Prelims examination, candidates must ensure they only carry the permitted items to avoid any inconvenience or disqualification. Below is a detailed description of items that are allowed inside the exam centre.
| Item | Remarks |
| E-Admit Card | Mandatory for entry |
| Photo Identity Proof | Original, valid government-issued |
| Two Photographs | Required if admit card photo is unclear |
| Black Ballpoint Pen | Only black ink allowed |
| Transparent Water Bottle | Allowed if no restriction by the centre |
| Analog Watch | Only non-digital watches permitted |
| Essential Medicines | Allowed with prior intimation |
Conclusion
Being well-prepared for the UPSC Prelims not only involves academic readiness but also ensuring what to carry in UPSC Prelims the correct items to exam centre. Candidates must bring their e-Admit Card, a valid Photo ID, two passport-size photographs, and a black ballpoint pen, all of which are mandatory for entry and participation in the exam. Optional yet allowed items include an analog wristwatch, transparent water bottle, and essential medicines (with prior intimation). Equally important is avoiding any prohibited items such as mobile phones, digital devices, smartwatches, and valuable personal belongings, which could lead to disqualification.
What to Carry in UPSC Prelims Exam 2025
Can I carry a bag inside the UPSC Prelims exam hall?
No, bags, backpacks, or any type of luggage are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
Which pen is allowed for the UPSC Prelims exam?
Only black ballpoint pens are permitted to mark answers on the OMR sheet.
Are digital watches or smartwatches allowed?
No, digital watches, smartwatches, or any watches with calculators are not allowed in the exam hall.
Can I carry a mobile phone or any electronic device inside the exam centre?
No, all electronic devices including mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, and programmable devices are strictly banned.
