UPSC Mains Centre List 2026: City-Wise and State-Wise List

Selecting the right examination centre is a crucial step for every UPSC aspirant. The UPSC Mains Centre List 2026 provides candidates with detailed information about the cities and states where the Civil Services (Main) Examination will be conducted. Knowing the centre locations, allocation process, and venue details in advance helps aspirants plan their travel, stay, and preparation effectively, ensuring a smooth and stress-free exam experience.

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City-Wise UPSC Mains Centre List 2026

Candidates must carefully review the UPSC mains centre city wise list 2026 before filling out their Detailed Application Form (DAF-I). Below is the expected city list based on official notifications:

UPSC Mains Centre State Wise List 2026

For candidates looking for the UPSC mains centre state wise list 2026, the distribution ensures that at least one major city in most large states serves as a hub.

• North India: Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Lucknow, Prayagraj, Jammu, Shimla.
• South India: Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada.
• East & North-East India: Kolkata, Patna, Ranchi, Cuttack, Dispur, Aizawl, Shillong.
• West & Central India: Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Raipur.

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UPSC Mains Exam Centre Allocation 2026

The UPSC mains exam centre allocation 2026 follows a strict “First-Apply-First-Allot” basis.

• Ceiling Limits: Each city has a specific capacity (ceiling) for the number of candidates it can accommodate.
• Exceptions: Cities like Chennai, Delhi, Dispur, Kolkata, and Nagpur typically do not have a ceiling, but this is subject to UPSC’s final discretion.
• Early Application: If a candidate’s preferred UPSC mains nearest exam centre 2026 reaches its capacity, it will be frozen in the drop-down menu, forcing the candidate to choose from the remaining available cities.

UPSC Mains Centre Preference Selection and Change Process

UPSC mains centre preference selection 2026 occurs during the DAF-I filing stage after qualifying for the Prelims.

• UPSC Mains Centre Change Process 2026: Generally, once a centre is submitted in the final application, UPSC does not permit changes.
• UPSC Mains Centre Correction Window 2026: While a correction window is provided for certain details in the initial application (often around February), it is important to note that changes to the Mains centre, optional subjects, or medium of examination are rarely allowed after the final submission of the DAF.

UPSC Mains Admit Card and Venue Details

The UPSC mains exam location list 2026 with specific addresses will be mentioned on the E-Admit Card.

• UPSC Mains Centre Allotment Details 2026: Candidates can download their admit cards approximately 2–3 weeks before the exam from upsc.gov.in.
• UPSC Mains Exam Venue List 2026: The hall ticket will contain the UPSC mains centre address details 2026 and the specific UPSC mains exam hall details 2026 (building name, floor, etc.).
• Verification: For 2026, UPSC has introduced mandatory face authentication at the venue. Candidates must carry their admit card and the original Photo ID (preferably Aadhaar) used during registration.

How to Download UPSC Mains Centre List PDF 2026?

Aspirants can access the UPSC mains centre list PDF 2026 by following these steps:

1. Visit the official website: upsc.gov.in.
2. Go to the “Examination” tab and click on “Active Examinations.”
3. Select “Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2026.”
4. Download the official notification PDF to see the confirmed list of cities.

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Key Tips for Candidates

To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience during the UPSC Mains 2026, candidates should follow these essential tips:

1. Reach Early: Arrive at your allotted exam centre at least 30–60 minutes before the session starts to complete verification and settle in.
2. Check Venue Details: Verify the UPSC mains centre address details 2026 and the exam hall location printed on your e-Admit Card.
3. Carry Required Documents: Bring your e-Admit Card and the original Photo ID used during registration (preferably Aadhaar).
4. Avoid Electronic Devices: Mobile phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
5. Plan Accommodation: Book lodging near your UPSC mains nearest exam centre 2026 to minimize travel fatigue, especially as the Mains exam spans multiple days.
6. Know the Rules: Follow all instructions regarding seating, entry timings, and authentication procedures, including face verification at the venue.
7. Stay Calm and Prepared: Familiarise yourself with the centre layout, nearby facilities, and commuting options to ensure a stress-free examination day.

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