The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the release of admit cards for three major examinations in 2026 — the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (NDA), the Combined Defence Services (CDS) II Examination, and the Civil Services Mains Examination. Candidates appearing for these competitive exams can now access and download their hall tickets from the official UPSC website at upsc.gov.in.
The admit card serves as an essential entry document for candidates on the day of the examination. Without it, individuals will not be permitted to enter the examination hall. The commission typically releases these documents along with important instructions regarding the exam schedule, reporting time, dress code, and documents that candidates must carry alongside the hall ticket.
For the NDA and CDS examinations, which are conducted twice a year, the UPSC invites candidates who have successfully cleared the written stage to appear for the subsequent SSB (Service Selection Board) interview and medical tests. The admit card release marks a significant milestone for aspirants who have spent months preparing for these highly competitive defence services recruitment drives.
Meanwhile, the Civil Services Mains admit card is one of the most closely watched announcements each year, as the UPSC Civil Services Examination remains one of India's most prestigious and difficult competitive exams. Thousands of candidates who qualified through the preliminary stage await the release of their mains hall tickets to finalize their travel and accommodation plans well in advance.
Candidates are advised to carry a printed copy of the admit card along with a valid photo identification document such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport when reporting to the examination centre.
