The UPSC URN Registration 2026 is now the mandatory first step for applicants planning to apply for any examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in 2026. The URN full form is Universal Registration Number which is a unique and permanent number assigned to each applicant after completing the registration process. This system has been introduced to simplify the online application process and to maintain a centralized database for all candidates. For the Civil Services Examination UPSC CSE 2026 application dates are scheduled from 4 February 2026 to 24 February 2026. Applicants must complete UPSC URN Registration 2026 before filling out the exam-specific form. This post contains verified details regarding UPSC URN Registration 2026 and the details related to it.
UPSC URN vs OTR: What Has Changed?
| Feature | UPSC URN (Universal Registration Number) | UPSC OTR (One Time Registration) |
|---|---|---|
| Current Status | Active and mandatory for all UPSC exams from 2025 onward | Discontinued and not valid for new applications |
| Purpose | Provides a permanent registration number for lifetime use | Stored basic details for multiple exam forms |
| Portal Requirement | Required before applying for any exam on the new portal | Not accepted on the updated portal |
| Data Coverage | Detailed candidate profile across modules | Basic personal details for auto-fill |
| Validity | Permanent and same across all exams | One-time ID but now invalid |
Who Must Complete UPSC URN Registration 2026?
UPSC URN Registration 2026 is compulsory for applicants applying for UPSC CSE 2026, Applicants appearing for Engineering Services, CDS, NDA, CAPF or other UPSC exams, fresh applicants who never registered under URN and applicants previously registered under OTR
Key Dates for UPSC CSE 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of UPSC CSE 2026 Application | 4 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 February 2026 |
| URN Registration Availability | Open Throughout the Year |
Documents Required for Universal Registration
Applicants should keep the following documents ready before starting UPSC URN Registration 2026 which are 10th Class Marksheet, Aadhaar Card or Valid Photo ID, Active Mobile Number and Valid Email ID.
How to Generate Your Universal Registration Number
Applicants who want to generate your universal registration number online must follow the given below steps carefully:
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Step1 > Open the official UPSC online portal at upsconline.nic.in and click on Account Creation. Enter a valid email ID and mobile number, then verify both using OTP. Create a strong password.
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Step2 > Log in to your newly created account and select the Universal Registration module.
Step3 > Enter your identity details including full name, date of birth, gender and parents’ information exactly as mentioned in official documents and fill in your matriculation details such as board name, roll number and year of passing.
Step4 > Provide your Aadhaar number or any other approved photo ID number for verification and click on Lock and Submit. After successful submission, your UPSC URN Registration 2026 process will generate a permanent Universal Registration Number.
Step5 > After successful submission, your UPSC URN Registration 2026 process will generate a permanent Universal Registration Number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the full form of URN in UPSC URN Registration 2026?
Ans. The full form of URN is Universal Registration Number. It is a permanent identification number generated after completing UPSC URN Registration 2026.
Q2. Is UPSC URN Registration 2026 compulsory for UPSC CSE 2026?
Ans. Yes applicants must complete UPSC URN Registration 2026 before submitting the UPSC CSE 2026 examination form.
Q3. Can I modify details after generating the URN?
Ans. No once you lock and submit the Universal Registration module, changes are generally not permitted. Candidates must double-check details before submission.
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in |
| Apply Online | https://upsc.gov.in/apply-online |
| WhatsApp Group | Click Here |
| Telegram Group | Click Here |
