The UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2025 is a high-stakes exam that demands not only academic preparation but also strict adherence to exam day rules and conduct. The Union Public Service Commission enforces stringent regulations to ensure fairness and security in the examination process. To avoid disqualification or unnecessary stress on exam day, here is a comprehensive guide to the UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025, including what to carry, reporting time, dress code, conduct guidelines, and more.
Dress Code for UPSC Prelims 2025
When appearing for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination, it’s crucial to adhere to a modest and examination-appropriate dress code. This ensures hassle-free entry through security checks and avoids any unnecessary delays or disqualification risks.
Recommended Attire
- Simple and Comfortable Clothing: Wear light, breathable fabrics suitable for long hours in the exam hall. T-shirts, kurtas, plain shirts, or simple salwar-kameez are advisable.
- Footwear: Prefer sandals or simple shoes/slippers without thick soles or metallic embellishments.
- Neutral Colors: Opt for subtle or neutral tones to avoid drawing attention.
Also Read: UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025
What to Avoid
- Full-Sleeve Shirts: Avoid full sleeves unless necessary. Half-sleeves are generally preferred to speed up frisking.
- Metallic Items: Refrain from wearing belts, watches, metal buttons, or other accessories that may trigger metal detectors.
- Jewelry and Fancy Accessories: Female candidates should avoid wearing earrings, bangles, or any kind of flashy accessories.
- Elaborate or Designer Outfits: Avoid heavy embroidery, sequins, or designer clothes that may delay the security process.
OMR Sheet Filling Instructions
- Use only black ballpoint pens to fill circles.
- Fill your roll number, test booklet series, and other details carefully.
- Avoid stray marks, overwriting, or tearing the sheet.
Also Read: UPSC Prelims Exam 2025 Timings
What to Carry to UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instruction 2025
To avoid any last-minute issues on the exam day, candidates must carry the following essential items to the UPSC Prelims Examination Centre. These items are either mandatory or recommended, based on exam guidelines issued by UPSC.
| Item | Status | Notes |
| UPSC Prelims Admit Card | Mandatory | Carry printed admit card (color or B/W). |
| Valid Photo ID Proof | Mandatory | Aadhaar, Passport, DL, Voter ID. Must match ID mentioned on the admit card. |
| Two Passport-Size Photographs | If Needed | Required if photo on admit card is unclear. |
| Black Ballpoint Pens | Mandatory | Only black ink allowed for OMR; carry extra pens |
| Analog Watch | Allowed | Simple watches allowed; smart/digital watches are not permitted |
| Transparent Water Bottle | Allowed | Must be fully transparent. May be restricted at some centers. |
| Pencil & Eraser | Allowed | For rough work only (not for OMR). |
Disallowed Things to Carry in the UPSC Prelims Exam Centre
Candidates appearing for the UPSC Prelims 2025 must avoid carrying prohibited items to the exam centre. Strictly banned items include mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, calculators, digital watches, and any electronic gadgets. Bags, purses, wallets, books, notes, or any kind of study material are not allowed. Only black ballpoint pens are permitted; other stationery like rulers, sharpeners, or correction fluid, is disallowed. Food items and fancy accessories or jewelry should also be avoided. To ensure smooth entry and avoid disqualification, candidates should carry only permitted items as per UPSC guidelines.
Also Read: What To Carry In UPSC Prelims 2025
Conclusion
The UPSC Prelims 2025 is not just a test of your knowledge but also of your discipline and attention to detail. Following the UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions, including the reporting time, dress code, and list of permitted items, is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. A small mistake like arriving late, carrying a prohibited item, or filling the OMR sheet incorrectly can cost you your attempt. Therefore, treat these guidelines with the same seriousness as your syllabus preparation.
UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025 FAQs
Can I wear a smartwatch as per the UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions?
No, smartwatches and digital watches are strictly prohibited. As per UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions, only simple analog watches are allowed in the exam hall.
What is the dress code mentioned in the UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions 2025?
Candidates should wear simple, comfortable clothing without metallic items. Avoid full-sleeve shirts, jewelry, or any outfit that may delay security checks. Neutral-colored attire is preferred.
What items are disallowed according to UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions?
Prohibited items include mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, books, notes, purses, and any electronic or digital devices. Only black ballpoint pens, transparent water bottles, and analog watches are allowed.
Is reporting time important in UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions?
Yes, reporting time is crucial. Entry gates close 30 minutes before the exam starts. Late entry is not permitted under any circumstances, as clearly stated in the UPSC Prelims Exam Day Instructions.
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