Common Application Form 2026: UPSC Introduced New Online Application Portal

Common Application Form 2026: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification on 4th February 2026, introducing a new Online Application Portal for registration and submission of application forms. This revamped portal is designed to simplify the UPSC registration process and provide a seamless experience for candidates. Common Application Form 2026 (CAF) contains information that is shared across all UPSC examinations and can be filled at any time. All applicants must fill the CAF and upload the necessary documents afresh on the new portal via https://upsconline.nic.in, as the old One Time Registration (OTR) module will no longer be applicable.

What is Common Application Form 2026?

Common Application Form 2026 (CAF) is an initiative by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to streamline the application process for all its examinations. Released officially on 4th February 2026, the CAF is part of the new UPSC Online Application Portal, designed to replace the old One Time Registration (OTR) module.

Why UPSC Introduced CAF 2026

The Common Application Form 2026 system aims to:

• Reduce repetitive data entry for multiple exams.
• Save time and avoid last-minute rush during exam notifications.
• Maintain a permanent and common record for all exams via URN.
• Ensure seamless ID verification using Aadhaar Card or other government-issued IDs.

What is Universal Registration Number?

URN stands for Universal Registration Number. It is a unique identification number assigned to every candidate when they create their account on the UPSC Online Application Portal. The URN links your personal, academic, and identity details to your profile, so you don’t have to fill them repeatedly for different UPSC exams.

How to Fill Common Application Form 2026

Candidates are required to apply online through https://upsconline.nic.in. Here is a UPSC new portal steps:

Step 1: Read Instructions

Before filling the CAF, read:

• General Instructions
• Profile/Module-wise instructions
• Uploading document instructions

Step 2: Create an Account and Get URN

• Register on the UPSC Online Portal.
• Obtain a Universal Registration Number (URN), which will be required for all exams.

Step 3: Fill Common Application Form (CAF)

• Enter personal details, educational qualifications, and other relevant information.
• Upload supporting documents such as DOB proof, educational certificates, etc.

Step 4: Upload Photo and Signature

• Live Photo Capture: Applicants must upload a photograph and also capture a live photo during the CAF process.
• Signature Upload: Sign three times on plain white paper with black ink and upload the scanned image.

Step 5: Examination-Specific Module

• Enter details only during the exam application window, such as:
  • Exam name
  • Application fee
  • Choice of centre

Step 6: Submit

• Verify all details carefully before submission.
• Note: No edits or withdrawals are allowed after submission.

Common Application Form 2026 Important Notes

1. Update URN Profile: Candidates can update their URN profile, but changes will apply only to future applications, not the ones already submitted.
2. Photo ID Requirement: Keep one government-issued photo ID ready (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, etc.).
3. No Post-Submission Changes: Ensure all uploaded documents, photo, and signature are correct.

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