Complete List of Documents Required for UPSC 2026

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) released the official UPSC CSE Notification 2026 on 4 February 2026, with the Preliminary Examination scheduled for 24 May 2026. Aspirants must ensure that all documents required for UPSC 2026 are accurate, complete, and ready before filling the online application form.

Any mismatch, incorrect upload, or missing certificate can lead to rejection of the UPSC 2026 application. This article provides a complete and updated list of documents required for UPSC CSE 2026, along with important guidelines aspirants must follow during the online application process.

Before applying for UPSC CSE 2026, candidates must keep the following documents ready in digital (scanned) format. These documents are mandatory for successful form submission.

Check now: UPSC CSE 2026 Notification Out | Apply Online, Step by Step Process

Candidates must upload a government-issued photo ID with correct and clearly visible personal details.

Accepted ID Proofs for UPSC 2026

• Aadhaar Card
• Voter ID (EPIC)
• Passport
• PAN Card
• Driving License

Important Instructions

• The ID must be valid, clear, and legible.
• The scanned copy should be in the prescribed format and size.
• The same ID proof must be used at Prelims, Mains, and Interview stages.

NOTE: Any mismatch in name, photograph, or details can lead to cancellation of candidature.

To be eligible for UPSC CSE 2026, candidates must provide proof of a minimum educational qualification.

Required Educational Documents

• Graduation Degree Certificate (from a recognised university), or
• Provisional Certificate (if the final degree is not issued yet)

For Final-Year Students

• Mark sheets of previous semesters, or
• University/institution-issued proof stating that the candidate has appeared or will appear in the final examination

These documents are used by UPSC to verify academic eligibility.

The Class 10 (Matriculation) Certificate is a mandatory document for UPSC 2026.

• It serves as the primary proof of date of birth.
• The date of birth mentioned in the application form must exactly match the certificate.
• Any discrepancy can result in rejection of the application.

Photograph Requirements

• Must be a recent passport-size photograph
• Not more than 10 days old from the start of the application process
• Light background, clear visibility
• The candidate’s name and date of photograph must be mentioned
• Face should cover around 75% (3/4th) of the photograph
• The photograph should reflect your current appearance, as it will be matched during all stages

Signature Requirements

• Signature must be done on white paper
• Use black or blue ink only
• Signature should be neat and clearly visible
• Upload a properly scanned copy

NOTE: The photograph uploaded in the application will be used during Prelims, Mains, and Interview, so consistency is crucial.

Candidates belonging to reserved categories must upload valid and updated certificates to claim reservation benefits.

Important Notes

• Certificates must be issued by competent authorities only.
• Outdated or incorrect certificates can lead to loss of reservation benefits.
• UPSC may ask for original certificates during later stages.

Also see: UPSC CSE 2026: New Rules on Reattempts & Service Restrictions

UPSC strictly verifies the age eligibility of candidates. Accepted documents for date of birth are:

• Class 10 / Matriculation Certificate
• Birth Certificate
• Passport

NOTE: The date of birth mentioned in the application form must exactly match the date in the uploaded document. Any mismatch may lead to outright rejection.

1. Read the official UPSC Notification 2026 carefully before filling the application form.
2. All uploaded documents must be clear, legible, and correctly scanned.
3. Ensure absolute consistency in personal details such as name, date of birth, parents’ names, and category across all documents.
4. Use only valid and government-issued certificates. Category certificates must be issued by a competent authority and follow the latest government format.
5. Keep all original certificates safely preserved, as UPSC verifies original documents during the Mains examination and Personality Test (Interview) stages.
6. Upload a recent photograph and signature strictly as per UPSC guidelines.
7. Do not change your Photo ID proof midway. The same ID used in the application form must be produced at every stage of the examination.
8. Avoid waiting until the last date to submit the application form. Heavy traffic on the UPSC portal can cause technical glitches, payment failures, or incomplete submissions.
9. Final-year candidates must ensure eligibility before the Mains. If selected for the Mains exam, proof of passing the qualifying degree must be produced as per UPSC timelines.
10. Double-check every uploaded document before final submission. 

Must see: UPSC OTR 2026: One Time Registration & New Online Application Portal

Proper documentation is a non-negotiable part of the UPSC Civil Services Examination process. While preparation determines selection, documentation determines eligibility. Aspirants must ensure that all required documents are accurate, updated, and ready well in advance. A careful approach today can save you from irreversible mistakes tomorrow. 

Stay informed, stay organised, and focus on what matters the most—your preparation.