Instruction for Filling UPSC Application Form 2026, Mistakes to Avoid

Instruction for Filling UPSC Application Form 2026: Filling the UPSC Application Form 2026 is the first and most crucial step for aspirants of the Civil Services Examination. The process is entirely online, and even minor errors in personal details, document uploads, or form submission can lead to rejection. Therefore, it is essential to carefully follow the official instructions. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of the application process, including URN registration, CAF submission, examination-specific modules, and the new 2026 live photo and signature requirements, ensuring a smooth and error-free application.

UPSC Application Form 2026 Overview

The UPSC application process is conducted entirely online through the official One-Time Registration (OTR) platform. Candidates must complete the OTR before proceeding to the specific exam application.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

What are Instructions for Filling UPSC Application Form 2026?

Before starting, ensure you have a stable internet connection and all necessary documents scanned according to official specifications.

1. Online Application Portal

   • Candidates must apply online only through the official UPSC application portal: https://upsconline.nic.in.

   • Before starting, carefully read the:
     • General Instructions
     • Profile/Module-wise Instructions
     • Instructions for uploading documents

2. Application Components
   While filling the application for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026, candidates must complete all required modules, including:

   • Universal Registration Number (URN) Profile

   • Common Application Form (CAF)

   • Examination-Specific Module (including payment of fees and exam centre selection)

3. Mandatory Information & Documents
   Applicants are required to provide accurate information and upload valid supporting documents for all claims (e.g., date of birth, educational qualifications, category certificate). Failure to submit complete information or the required attachments will lead to cancellation of candidature.

PHOTO & SIGNATURE REQUIREMENTS (NEW FOR 2026)

A. Live Photo Capture (Mandatory)

• In addition to uploading a scanned photograph, candidates must capture a live photograph using their device camera or webcam while filling the CAF.

• This live photo must be clear, well-lit, and match the uploaded photograph to ensure identity verification at later stages.

• Any mismatch between the uploaded and live photo may lead to rejection of the application.

B. Scanned Photograph Upload

• Photograph must be:
  • JPG/JPEG format
  • File size between 20 KB and 300 KB
  • Plain white background
  • Face fully visible and clear
  • Neutral expression, eyes open, no dark glasses/shadow

C. Signature Upload

• Applicants must:
  • Sign three times (one below the other) using black ink on plain white paper
  • Scan all three signatures together and upload as a single JPG/JPEG file
  • Signature image must be clear, legible, and oriented correctly

PHOTO ID CARD REQUIREMENT

• Candidates must have details of a valid Photo ID Card (e.g., Aadhaar Card, Voter ID/EPIC, PAN Card, Passport, Driving Licence).

• These details must be provided while completing the URN profile.

• The same Photo ID must be carried to all examination stages for verification.

IMPORTANT RULES – SUBMISSION & CORRECTIONS

• No withdrawal of the application is allowed once submitted.

• No corrections, alterations, or modifications in any field of the Application Form are permitted after final submission.

• Candidates should ensure all details and uploads are correct before finalizing the form.

ONE‑TIME URN PROFILE UPDATE

• The Commission offers a one‑time facility to update/modify the URN profile.

• Changes in URN will not affect already submitted applications — updated details will apply only to future applications once the URN is updated and re‑locked.

Instructions for Uploading Documents

Properly uploading your photo and signature is critical to avoid rejection. Pay close attention to UPSC photo and signature instructions.

Photo Upload Instructions

• File Format & Size: Use JPG format. File size must be between 20KB and 200KB. Save as ‘photo.jpg’.
• Clarity & Coverage: Photo must be clear, recent, and show your full face. Face coverage should be 3/4th (75%) of the photo area.
• Background: Use a plain white background.
• Facial Features: Frontal view, head centered, both ears visible, eyes open, natural expression (no grinning or frowning). Avoid shadows on the face or background.
• Avoid: Dark backgrounds, uniforms, eyes hidden by glasses or hair. Do not sign the photograph.
  These guidelines ensure compliance with upsc photo and signature size online and upsc photo and signature size 2026 requirements.

Signature Upload Instructions

• Method: Sign on clean white paper using a black pen.
• Scanning: Scan your signature. Ensure the image is clear, well-lit, and without shadows.
• File Format & Size: Save in JPG format. File size must be between 20KB and 100KB. Dimensions should be between 350 pixels to 500 pixels. Save as ‘signature.jpg’. This meets UPSC document upload size 2026 standards.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books

Visit PW Store

Mistakes to Avoid While Filling the UPSC Application Form 2026

To ensure your application is “ready to go in one go,” avoid these common errors:

• Discrepancy in Name: Ensure your name matches your 10th-standard marksheet exactly.
• Incomplete Part-II: Many candidates complete Part-I but forget to pay the fee or upload documents in Part-II.
• Blurred Images: If the upsc photo and signature size 2026 specifications are met but the image is blurry, the application may be rejected.
• Wrong Exam Center: Centers are allotted on a “first-apply-first-allot” basis. Apply early to get your preferred location.

Ready to boost your UPSC 2026 preparation? Join PW’s UPSC online courses today!

DOWNLOAD PDF