The UPSC Apply Online process is one of the major points for the candidates aiming for the Civil Services Examination. Every year, thousands of aspirants wait for this moment, and therefore, timely and correct information becomes very important. So, in this detailed guide, you will clearly make you understand the UPSC Apply Online process 2026, including application dates, fees, stages, and step-by-step instructions, explained in a simple and natural way.
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UPSC Application Form 2026 Overview
The UPSC Apply Online process 2026 window will open on January 14, 2026, immediately after the release of the official UPSC Notification 2026. Hence, candidates can apply only through the official website www.upsconline.gov.in.
Moreover, the UPSC Online Form 2026 will remain active until 3rd February 2026, so candidates must complete the process well before the deadline. Importantly, UPSC Apply Online process 2026 follows a structured four-stage process, which ensures smooth and accurate registration.
Here are the Stages of UPSC Apply Online Process 2026
- Part I – OTR Profile
- Part-II – Application Form
- Part-III – Detailed Application Form (DAF)
- Part-IV – Fees, Photograph, Signature, & Exam Centre Selection
UPSC Apply Online 2026 Important Dates
Before knowing the application process, it is important to know the timeline, that will help you to avoid last-minute stress. Therefore, keep these dates in mind while completing UPSC Apply Online process.
- UPSC Notification 2026 Release: January 14, 2026
- UPSC Apply Online 2026 Start Date: January 14, 2026
- Last Date to Apply Online: February 3, 2026
Steps to Fill UPSC Application form 2026
The UPSC Apply Online process 2016 includes Part I and Part II during the initial registration, followed by Parts III and IV. So, follow each step carefully.
Along with applying online, practicing previous years’ UPSC Prelims Question Papers helps candidates understand exam trends.
Part I (OTR Profile) Registration
First of all, you must complete the OTR profile to begin the UPSC Apply Online process.
Steps to Fill Part I
- Firstly, visit www.upsconline.nic.in or upsc.gov.in to check the latest notifications.
- Then, click on the “Apply Online” link on the homepage.
- Next, select “Online Application for Various Examinations.”
- After that, click on “Part I Registration.”
- Carefully read all instructions and then click “Yes” to continue.
- Enter personal details such as Name, Gender, Date of Birth, Father’s Name, Nationality, and Address.
- Now, fill in educational qualifications and contact details.
- Then, provide photo ID details, number of attempts, graduation marks, and preferred Prelims exam center.
- Preview all details and make corrections if needed, because editing is not allowed after submission.
- Finally, click “Submit” and receive your Registration ID (RID).
Part-II (Application Form) Process
After the completion of part I, you have to proceed to Part II of the UPSC Apply Online process.
Steps to Fill Part-II
- Firstly, log in using your Registration ID (RID) and Date of Birth.
- Then, choose the payment mode for the application fee.
- Select your preferred Prelims examination centre.
- Upload required documents in the given size format:
- Photograph (JPG: 20 KB to 300 KB)
- Signature (JPG: 20 KB to 300 KB)
- Photo ID (PDF: 20 KB to 300 KB)
- Photograph (JPG: 20 KB to 300 KB)
- Additionally, click “Upload” after verifying all files.
- Read the final declaration carefully.
- Tick the declaration box and submit the form.
- After submission, you will receive a confirmation message on your registered email and mobile number.
Part-III (Detailed Application Form – DAF)
After qualifying for the Prelims stage, candidates must have to complete Part-III of UPSC Apply Online process.
After clearing Prelims, structured UPSC Mains Guidance becomes essential for answer writing and strategic preparation.
Key Points of Part-III
- Firstly, fill the service preferences carefully.
- Secondly, provide additional personal and academic details.
- Moreover, review all information before clicking “Submit”.
Once submitted, Part III of UPSC Apply Online process stands completed.
Part-IV (Fees, Photograph, Signature & Exam Centre)
Finally, complete the UPSC Apply Online process by finishing the fee payment and document upload.
UPSC Application Fee 2026
- General Category: Rs 100
- SC/ST/Female/PwBD Candidates: No fee
Candidates can pay fees using net banking, debit card, credit card, or SBI challan.
Final Checklist
- Firstly, upload images in the correct format and size (20 KB to 300 KB).
- Secondly, Select your preferred examination centre carefully.
- Third, confirm payment status before final submission.
Conclusion
The UPSC Apply Online process demands attention, accuracy, and timely action. Therefore, by following each step carefully, checking details twice, and submitting the form before the deadline, you can avoid unnecessary errors. So, stay calm, follow the official instructions, and complete the UPSC Apply Online process with confidence.
FAQs
The application process starts on January 14, 2026.
You can apply only through www.upsconline.gov.in.
No, UPSC does not allow editing after final submission, so review carefully.
The last date to submit the application is February 3, 2026.
No, SC/ST/Female/PwBD candidates are exempted from paying the fee.





