The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced the examination schedule for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025. The Prelims, considered the first and one of the most crucial stages in the UPSC selection process, is scheduled to be conducted on Sunday, 25th May 2025, in two shifts across 80+ cities in India. Understanding the exact UPSC Prelims exam timings, reporting schedule, gate closing time, and other important instructions is essential to avoid any last-minute stress on exam day.
In this detailed guide, we’ve covered everything candidates need to know about the UPSC Prelims 2025 Exam Timings, reporting instructions, and exam day best practices.
Overview of UPSC Civil Service Prelims 2025
The UPSC Prelims is a qualifying stage for shortlisting candidates for the Civil Services (Main) Examination. It consists of two objective-type papers—General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT), each carrying 200 marks and spanning a duration of 2 hours.
Important Exam Day Details:
- Date of Exam: Sunday, 25th May 2025
- Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen and Paper)
- Number of Sessions: 2 (Morning and Afternoon)
- Duration per Paper: 2 Hours
- Break Between Sessions: 3 Hours
Paper-wise UPSC Civil Service Prelims Timings 2025
The Civil Services Preliminary Exam will be conducted in two sessions on the same day.
| Paper | Session | Exam Timing | Reporting Time | Gate Closing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies Paper I | Morning Session | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | 9:20 AM |
| CSAT (GS Paper II) | Afternoon Session | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | 2:20 PM |
It is critical for all candidates to reach their allotted exam centers well in advance, preferably by the start of the reporting window, to avoid any delays due to traffic or logistical issues.
UPSC Prelims 2025 – Detailed Exam Day Schedule
| Event | GS Paper I | CSAT Paper II |
|---|---|---|
| Reporting Time Begins | 8:00 AM | 1:00 PM |
| Entry Closes | 9:20 AM | 2:20 PM |
| Exam Commencement | 9:30 AM | 2:30 PM |
| Exam Concludes | 11:30 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Break Between Sessions | – | 3 Hours |
Note: The three-hour break between papers can be utilized for a light meal, rest, or mental preparation for the second session.
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UPSC Prelims 2025 Reporting Guidelines
- Carry a printed copy of your e-Admit Card along with a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, PAN, Voter ID, or Driving License).
- Ensure you reach the center by 8:30 AM for the morning paper and 1:30 PM for the afternoon session.
- Verify exam center location in advance—preferably a day before the exam—to avoid last-minute confusion.
Exam Hall Instructions: What to Bring and Avoid
To ensure a smooth and stress-free exam experience, follow these dos and don’ts:
Allowed:
- Black ballpoint pen only (for marking OMR sheets)
- Valid Photo ID
- e-Admit Card
- Simple analog wristwatch (no digital or smartwatches)
Not Allowed
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, or any electronic gadgets
- Bags or study material
- Heavy accessories or clothing with large buttons
Important Tip: No arrangements will be made to store your belongings at the exam venue. Candidates are advised to come light.
Prelims Paper Structure
General Studies Paper I:
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marks: 200
- Questions: 100
- Topics: Indian Polity, History, Geography, Economy, Environment, Current Affairs
CSAT (Paper II):
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marks: 200
- Questions: 80
- Topics: Logical Reasoning, Mathematics, Comprehension, Decision-making
Note: CSAT is a qualifying paper—you must score at least 33% to pass, but its marks are not counted in the Prelims merit.
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Exam Day Preparation Tips
- Sleep early the night before the exam and eat a light, nutritious breakfast.
- Reach the exam center early to settle in and complete document checks smoothly.
- Bring two black ballpoint pens as backups.
- Stay calm and focused—mental clarity is just as important as knowledge.
- Use the break time to relax, rehydrate, and mentally reset.
FAQs on UPSC Prelims Timings 2025
Q1. What are the exact exam timings for UPSC Prelims 2025?
A:
- GS Paper I: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- CSAT Paper II: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Q2. What is the reporting and gate closing time?
A:
- Morning Session: Report by 8:30 AM, gate closes at 9:20 AM
- Afternoon Session: Report by 1:30 PM, gate closes at 2:20 PM
Q3. Can I enter the center after gate closing time?
A: No. UPSC follows a strict policy. Latecomers will not be allowed entry.
Q4. Is there a break between papers?
A: Yes, there is a 3-hour break from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
