UPSC CSE Mains 2025: DAF-I Application Window Now Open On upsc.gov.in—Check Deadline, Steps To Apply & Key Details
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially opened the Detailed Application Form-I (DAF-I) portal for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025. This marks a significant milestone for thousands of aspirants who successfully cleared the Preliminary stage and are now gearing up for the next challenge: the Mains.
From June 16 to June 25, 2025, eligible candidates must fill out and submit the DAF-I form through the UPSC’s official website, upsc.gov.in. Only those who complete this critical step within the given timeframe will be allowed to appear for the Mains examination.
DAF-I Submission: What You Need to Know
The application process is entirely online. Candidates must register on the UPSC portal before accessing the DAF-I form. It’s essential to provide accurate details during registration, including any requirements for scribes, assistive tools, large-print papers, or changes in personal information such as name alterations (with valid proof).
Step-by-Step Guide to Fill UPSC DAF-I 2025
- Visit the official UPSC website – upsconline.nic.in
- Click on “DAF-I – Civil Services Examination 2025”
- Register using your name (as per Class 10 certificate), roll number, date of birth, and valid email ID
- Check your email for login credentials
- Log in and begin filling out the DAF-I, which includes six modules:
- Personal Information
- Educational Qualifications
- Parental Details
- Employment History
- Document Uploads
- Final Submission
- Upload all mandatory documents such as proof of age, caste or disability certificates, and academic records
- Review carefully before submission—no edits are allowed once submitted
- Print the completed form for your reference
Pre-filled Fields and Corrections
Some information—like name, date of birth, and parental details—will be automatically filled based on your Preliminary application. If there are any discrepancies, you must contact UPSC immediately and provide valid documentation (e.g., a gazette notification for name changes).
Key Details: UPSC CSE 2025 Exam Structure
The Preliminary exam consisted of two papers:
- General Studies Paper I
- General Studies Paper II (CSAT)
Both question papers are available for reference on the UPSC website.
This year, the UPSC aims to fill 979 vacancies in top-tier services such as:
- Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
- Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
- Indian Police Service (IPS)
Important Dates and Application Fee
- DAF-I Registration Window: June 16 to June 25, 2025
- UPSC CSE Mains Exam Start Date: August 22, 2025 (to be held across five days)
- Application Fee: ₹200
- Exemptions: SC, ST, PwBD candidates, and all women applicants
Who Can Apply?
Only those 14,161 candidates who cleared the UPSC Prelims are eligible to apply for the Mains via DAF-I. Submitting the DAF-I is not just a formality—it determines your eligibility for the Mains, service preference listing, and various support provisions (especially for PwBD candidates).
What’s Next After DAF-I?
Once your DAF-I is submitted, the countdown to the Mains begins. Candidates are advised to monitor the UPSC website regularly for updates on:
- Exam schedules
- Admit card release
- Further instructions or announcements
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