List of Documents Required for UPSC 2026

For every UPSC aspirant, success in the Civil Services Examination depends not only on preparation but also on proper documentation. From the online application to the final interview, UPSC verifies your identity, age, educational qualification, and category through official documents. Even a small mistake or a missing certificate can lead to rejection. This article discusses the List of Documents Required for UPSC 2026 Online Application Form.

List of Documents Required for UPSC 2026 Online Application

Here is the List of Documents Required for the UPSC 2026 Online Application Form. These documents are mandatory before applying for the exam.

• A recent passport-size photograph must be uploaded in digital format. It should be clear, in a light background, and match your current appearance.
• A scanned signature is required. It should be neatly signed on white paper with black or blue ink.
• A valid photo identity proof must be uploaded. You can use Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, PAN Card, or Driving License.
• The Class 10 (Matriculation) certificate is mandatory as proof of date of birth.
• A graduation certificate or provisional certificate must be uploaded as proof of educational qualification.
• Final-year students can upload mark sheets of previous semesters or a university-issued proof.

1. Valid ID Proof

• Candidates must upload a government-issued photo ID with correct personal details.
• Accepted ID proofs include:
  • Aadhaar Card
  • Voter ID (EPIC)
  • Passport
  • PAN Card
  • Driving License
• The ID must be valid, clear, and scanned in the prescribed format.
• The same ID must be used at all stages of the UPSC examination.
• A mismatch in ID details can lead to cancellation of candidature.

2. Educational Qualification Certificates

Candidates must provide proof that they meet the minimum educational qualification for UPSC CSE 2026.

• A graduation degree certificate is required.
• If the final degree is not yet issued, a provisional certificate can be uploaded.
• This document is used by UPSC to confirm your academic eligibility.
• Class 10th marksheet is also required for the date of birth proof.

3. Recent Photograph and Signature

• A recent passport-size photograph must be uploaded.
• The photograph should be not more than 10 days old from the start of the application process.
• The candidate’s name and date of taking the photograph must be clearly mentioned.
• The face should cover about 3/4th of the photograph.
• A scanned signature done with black or blue pen on white paper must be uploaded.
• Your appearance during Prelims, Mains, and Interview must match the uploaded photograph.

4. Category Certificates for UPSC 2026

Along with these basic documents, UPSC also requires candidates who belong to reserved categories to submit valid Category Certificates for the UPSC 2026 Application Form.

• SC and ST candidates must submit a caste certificate issued by a competent authority.
• OBC candidates must provide an OBC Non-Creamy Layer certificate, issued in the relevant financial year.
• EWS candidates must submit an Income and Asset Certificate as per government norms.
• PwBD candidates must submit a disability certificate issued by a government medical board.
• Ex-servicemen must provide a service or discharge certificate.

5. Proof of Date of Birth

• UPSC strictly verifies the age eligibility of candidates.
• Accepted documents for date of birth include:
  • Class 10 / Matriculation Certificate
  • Birth Certificate
  • Passport
• The date of birth in the application form must match the date mentioned in these documents.
• Any discrepancy can result in rejection of the application.

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