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UPSC 2026 Rule Change: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the notification for the Civil Services (CS) Exam 2026.  Along with this, the application process for 933 posts has begun. The last date to apply is February 24, but before applying, it is important for candidates to know about the necessary changes. In fact, along with the CS Exam 2026 notification, UPSC has also announced new rules, under which approximately 12 types of rules have been changed. While the new rules limit the number of attempts for IPS, IAS, and IFS exams, significant changes have also been made regarding the application process and EWS-OBC certificates.

Let's find out which rules UPSC has changed for the CS exam? We will learn about these changes step by step, from the application process to logging in for the main exam after the prelims.

1. UPSC CS Application Process will be completed in 4 stages
UPSC has made a major change to the application process for the CS Exam 2026. UPSC has redesigned the application process on its online application portal into 4 modules. Three of these modules are such that once filled, they will not need to be changed again, while one is exam-specific. Let's learn about them step-by-step.

Phase 1: Account Creation: Candidates will have to create an account on the official UPSC portal. Candidates can register through their email ID and mobile number. This account will be valid for all types of communication.

Phase 2: Universal Registration Number (URN): After account registration, a Universal Registration Number (URN) will be generated. The URN will be the permanent identity of any candidate. This will be required for all current and future UPSC examinations.

Phase 3: Common Application Form (CAF): Any candidate can apply for the UPSC exam based on their personal information, educational qualifications, identity proof, address, and category details. Once the common application is submitted, it will not need to be done again for each exam.

Phase 4; Step 4: Exam-Specific Module: This module is exam-specific and changes with each exam. Candidates applying will have the option to choose their exam center, pay the application fee, select service preferences, and choose optional subjects and the medium of examination.

2. Live Photo Capture Now Mandatory
Under the changes made by UPSC, live photo capture has now been made mandatory for UPSC 2026 exams. While candidates will still need to upload a recently taken passport-sized photograph during the application process, they will also be required to capture a live photograph. Importantly, the uploaded and live-captured photos must match. UPSC has clarified that if the photos are unclear or do not match, the application may be rejected.

3. Aadhaar-Based Verification
UPSC has advised candidates to use Aadhaar as their primary identification document. While candidates can use other documents such as Voter ID, PAN card, passport, or driving license, UPSC has stated that using Aadhaar results in less delay in verification.

4. Three Scanned Copies of Signature to be Uploaded
UPSC has also made significant changes to the rules for uploading signatures during the application process. Under the new rules, candidates will have to sign three times on a plain sheet of paper with black ink. This sheet must then be scanned and uploaded. The signatures must be clear and legible. This will ensure accurate identity verification during document verification and examination processes.

5. No Corrections Allowed in the Application
According to the new UPSC rules, once a candidate submits the application form, they will not be able to make any corrections to the application form, nor will they be able to withdraw the application.

6. URN Can Be Updated Only Once
UPSC has implemented a system for generating a Universal Registration Number (URN) for candidates, which will serve as their permanent profile. Candidates can update this profile only once, but there are some conditions: changes made to the URN will not affect previously submitted applications. The updated details will only apply to future applications.

7. Admit Cards will now be issued online only
UPSC will now issue exam admit cards online only. Admit cards will not be sent to any candidate via post or email. Candidates can download their e-admit card using their login credentials. Candidates must download their e-admit card and report to the examination center. It is mandatory to carry a printed copy of the admit card along with a valid photo ID.

8. Mandatory Face Authentication at the Examination Center
UPSC has made a major change regarding face authentication, under which face authentication will be conducted for every candidate at the examination center. This includes facial verification and verification of identity documents. For faster processing, UPSC has advised candidates to use Aadhaar as their identity document. Candidates are also required to arrive at the examination center before the scheduled time.

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