UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026 (Out) – Download PDF, Response Sheet & Objection Link
UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026 – Download PDF, Response Sheet & Objection Link
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026. Candidates who appeared for the CSE Prelims examination held on 24th May 2026 can now check and download the provisional answer key from the official website upsc.gov.in.
This recruitment drive aims to fill 933 vacancies. If you find any discrepancy in the answers, you can raise objections before 31st May 2026 (6:00 PM).
UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026 – Quick Overview
| Organization | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Post Name | CSE Prelims |
| Answer Key Status | Released |
| Release Date | 27th May 2026 |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
Direct Link: Download UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026 PDF
How to Download UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026?
Follow these simple steps to download your answer key:
- Visit the official website: upsc.gov.in
- Navigate to the “Answer Key” or “Recruitment” section
- Click on “UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026” link
- Log in using your Registration Number and Password/Date of Birth
- Your answer key with recorded responses will appear on screen
- Download and save the PDF for future reference
UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026 – Important Links
| Download Answer Key 2026 (General Studies Paper – I) | Click Here |
|---|---|
| Download Answer Key 2026 (General Studies Paper – II) | Click Here |
| Download Admit Card | Click Here |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
| Download Mobile App | Click Here |
| Join Telegram Channel | Click Here |
| Join WhatsApp Channel | Click Here |
How to Raise Objection Against UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026?
If you disagree with any answer in the provisional key, follow these steps:
- Log in to your candidate portal on upsc.gov.in
- Go to the “Challenge/Objection” section (QPRep Portal)
- Select the question(s) you want to challenge
- Upload supporting documents or references (if required)
- Pay the objection fee (if applicable) and submit before the deadline: 31st May 2026 (6:00 PM)
Important: Objections submitted after the deadline will NOT be considered.
UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026 – Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Exam Conducted | 24th May 2026 |
| Provisional Answer Key Released | 27th May 2026 |
| Last Date to Raise Objection | 31st May 2026 |
| Final Answer Key (Expected) | Early June 2026 |
| Result Declaration (Expected) | July 2026 |
UPSC CSE Prelims Cut Off 2026 (Expected)
| Category | Expected Cut Off |
|---|---|
| General (UR) | 90 – 100 |
| OBC | 85 – 95 |
| SC | 75 – 85 |
| ST | 75 – 85 |
| EWS | 85 – 95 |
| PwD | 60 – 75 |
Note: These are expected cut-offs based on previous years. Official cut-off will be released with results.
How to Calculate Your Score Using UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026?
Use this formula to estimate your score:
Total Score = (Correct Answers × Marks per Question) – (Wrong Answers × Negative Marking)
Marking Scheme for CSE Prelims Exam:
- Correct Answer: +2 marks (GS Paper I), +2.5 marks (CSAT)
- Wrong Answer: -0.66 marks (GS Paper I), -0.83 marks (CSAT)
- Unattempted: 0 marks