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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced an important update for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026. Candidates now have a chance to correct mistakes in their application forms and update their service preferences at specific stages of the process. This is crucial for aspirants aiming for top services like IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, and other Group A and B services. Understanding these updates carefully can prevent errors that may affect your selection.
The UPSC CSE 2026 application is open from 04 February 2026 to 24 February 2026, and candidates should ensure all details are accurate. Those who need to make changes can use the newly introduced Correction Window.
UPSC Correction Window 2026 – Fix Mistakes Hassle-Free
UPSC has introduced a Correction Window to help candidates edit mistakes in their applications after submission. This ensures transparency and reduces the risk of application rejection.
- The Correction Window will be open for 3 days after the application process closes.
- For CSE 2026, the application closes on 24 February 2026, and corrections can be made immediately afterward.
- Candidates can edit specific details in their forms during this period.
Applicable Exams:
- Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026
- Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Examination 2026
Why the Correction Window Matters:
- Fix mistakes in personal or academic information
- Prevent application rejection due to incorrect details
- Ensure all information is accurate before exams begin
- Reduce stress and confusion in later stages of the recruitment
Also Read: UPSC Notification 2026
UPSC Service Preference Update 2026 – Choose Wisely
UPSC also allows candidates to update their service preferences after the Mains 2026 results are declared.
- Service preference determines which service you may be allocated after clearing all stages.
- Candidates who qualify for the next stage can rearrange or update their choices during the dedicated updation window.
- This gives aspirants more flexibility to make decisions based on their Mains performance.
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How to Make the Most of the Correction Window
Candidates should carefully review their applications before the correction window closes. Here’s what to do:
- Check personal details, such as name, date of birth, and contact info.
- Verify academic qualifications and category details.
- Make corrections only where permitted; avoid unnecessary edits.
- Keep a final screenshot or PDF of the corrected application for reference.
Tips for Updating Service Preferences
When rearranging service preferences after the Mains results:
- Consider rank and reservation eligibility for each service.
- Review past cut-off trends to make informed choices.
- Think about location, job profile, and career growth in each service.
- Make sure the final order reflects your true priority to avoid regrets later.
Important UPSC 2026 Dates
Here are the important dates of UPSC Application Form 2026.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| UPSC CSE 2026 Application Start | 04 February 2026 |
| UPSC CSE 2026 Application Last Date | 24 February 2026 (6:00 PM) |
| UPSC Correction Window | 3 Days After Application Closure |
| Service Preference Update Window | After CSE Mains 2026 Result |
UPSC Correction Window & Service Preference 2026 FAQs
1. What is the UPSC Correction Window 2026?
It is a facility that allows candidates to correct mistakes in CSE and IFS application forms after submission, ensuring accuracy and preventing rejection.
2. When will the Correction Window open?
The window will be open for 3 days after the application closes on 24 February 2026.
3. Who can use the Correction Window?
All candidates who have successfully submitted applications for CSE (Prelims) 2026 and IFS (Prelims) 2026.
4. Can candidates make unlimited corrections?
You can only edit permitted fields. All corrections must be finalized before the window closes.
5. Which details can be corrected?
Candidates can typically correct personal details, academic qualifications, category, contact information, and photograph/signature issues (as per UPSC rules).
6. What happens if a candidate misses the Correction Window?
If you fail to make corrections during the window, the application cannot be modified later, and mistakes will remain.
7. What is the UPSC Service Preference update 2026?
It allows candidates to modify or rearrange their preferred services (IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, etc.) after the Mains 2026 results.
8. Who can update their service preference?
Only candidates who qualify for the next stage after CSE Mains 2026 can update their service preferences.
9. How should candidates decide on their service preference?
Consider rank, eligibility, career profile, location preferences, and past cut-offs before finalizing choices.
10. Where can candidates get official updates?
All official updates are available on the UPSC website under the “Highlight” section.
