UPSC CSE Prelims Answer Key 2026 OUT: Download Provisional PDF, Check Steps and Objection Details

UPSC has made live the provisional answer key for the CSE 2026 on the main official portal. The exam was already conducted on May 24, 2026. All those candidates who took part in the examination now have the opportunity to download the answer key, and they also have the chance to compare their responses to estimate probable scores before the final declaration of results. 

The prelims answer key is out now for the first time, very soon after the examination. Now, UPSC has introduced an objection process so that candidates can challenge the disputed answers within the given timeline. 

Candidates can access separate answer keys for both papers, General Studies (GS Paper I) and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT Paper II).

Download UPSC Prelims Answer Key for GS
Download UPSC Prelims Answer Key for CSAT

UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Answer Key: Key Highlights

How to Download UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Answer Key

The easy steps to download the provisional answer key are shared below:

1. Visit the UPSC website.
2. Click on the “UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 Provisional Answer Key” link available on the homepage.
3. A new page will open containing links for the answer key PDFs.
4. Select the required paper, GS Paper I or CSAT Paper II.
5. Download the PDF file.
6. Match your responses with the official key to calculate tentative marks.

Expected Use of the Answer Key

The provisional answer key helps candidates:

• Estimate expected scores before results
• Analyse performance paper-wise
• Identify doubtful questions and raise objections (if applicable)
• Prepare a realistic expectation for the cutoff and next stage of the selection process

Candidates are advised to carefully verify all responses before calculating scores, especially in GS Paper I where negative marking impacts the final score.