UPSC CSE Mains 2025 registration now open: Last date June 25

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has started the registration window for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) Mains 2025, which begins on June 16, 2025. 14,161 individuals who passed the preliminary round can now apply to the Mains.

UPSC Mains will begin on August 22 and will be completed within five days of starting. General candidates must pay Rs 200 for the CSE Mains application form; however, applicants from the SC, ST, PwBD, and female categories are exempt from paying the registration fee.

Interested applicants can submit their applications online at upsc.gov.in till June 25, 2025.

UPSC Mains 2025 Overview

UPSC CSE Mains 2025: How to Apply

Step 1: Go to upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in to find the UPSC’s official website.

Step 2: Log in to the portal with the registration ID and password you created during UPSC registration.

Step 3: Enter the candidates’ details (name, date of birth, category, etc.).

Step 4: Enter your educational background and attach any relevant documents.

Step 5: Enter employment details. If applicable, include the job title, description, organisation name, length of employment, and responsibilities.

Step 6: Select your service preference. Arrange the services in the order you prefer.

Step 7: Additional information will be required, such as hobbies, accomplishments, and extracurricular activities.

Step 8: Upload valid and relevant documents such as a photograph, signature, and government-approved photo ID card.

Step 9: Carefully review all the information provided and submit the UPSC CSE DAF 2025 form and the Rs 200 registration fee.

Now it’s time for preparations to start. For mains preparation 2025, you can look for the best UPSC coaching near you. APTI PLUS is the top IAS coaching centre in Kolkata. 2025 mains aspirants can join their test series as well.

Eligibility and Requirements of UPSC Mains 2025

Admission to the UPSC Mains 2025 is provisional and subject to meeting specific requirements. The following are the key requirements:

1. Registration fee

Fee Amount: Rs 200

Candidates must pay the non-refundable fee during the online registration process. Payment can be made using a debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking.

Exemptions: The following categories are exempt from paying the fee.

1. Female candidates.
2. People with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD).
3. Scheduled Castes (SC)
4. Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Candidates claiming exemption must select the appropriate category during registration and provide supporting documentation as needed.

2. Special Requirements

Candidates who have specific needs must mention them during registration.

• Scribe: Candidates with visual impairments or other disabilities who require a scribe must specify this on the registration form. They must also provide a disability certificate and a scribe request form.
• Candidates who require assistive devices (e.g., magnifiers, hearing aids) or question papers in larger font sizes should clearly state their needs.
• Supporting documents: To substantiate the request, upload relevant certificates (for example, a PwBD certificate).

3. Name change or mismatch

If the name on the application form differs from that on educational certificates (for example, due to a legal name change after matriculation), candidates must provide:

• A Gazette Notification reflecting the name change
• To verify the change, provide additional identity proof (for example, an Aadhaar card or a passport).
• Failure to submit these documents may result in disqualification.

4. Educational qualifications.

Candidates must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Those awaiting final results at the time of Prelims must provide proof of passing the degree examination during Mains registration.

5. Age and Attempt Limits

Age Limit: General category candidates must be between 21 and 32 as of August 1, 2025. Relaxations are available for SC/ST (up to 37 years), OBC (up to 35 years), and PwBD candidates.

Number of Attempts: General category candidates are allowed six attempts, SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts (up to the age limit), and OBC candidates have nine.

Mains 2025 Preparation Strategy 

Candidates should prepare for the Mains examination while completing the registration process. Here are a few strategies:

• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus for General Studies (GS) Papers I–IV, Essay, and your preferred optional subject.
• Practice Answer Writing: The Mains is descriptive, requiring concise and well-structured responses. Practice writing answers within the word limit (150-250 words per question).
• Refer to the previous papers: Analyze previous years’ question papers to identify trends and prioritize topics.
• Current Affairs: Stay up to date on national and international events by reading newspapers (such as The Hindu and Indian Express) and monthly magazines.
• Mock Tests: Enroll in a test series like Abhyudaya by APTI PLUS, which provides IAS coaching in Kolkata, to practice time management.
• Language Papers: Ensure proficiency in the Indian language (Paper A) and English (Paper B), as these are qualifying exams.

For more guidance, you can enroll in APTI PLUS,best coaching for upsc in Kolkata.