Contents
Qualification Requirements
Selection Process
step: 1
detail: Written Examination: Candidates take objective type and descriptive papers (including Paper-II and Paper-III). There is negative marking for wrong answers in objective papers.
step: 2
detail: Evaluation of Service Record: Service records are evaluated and admission to the written exam and service-record evaluation is provisional and subject to meeting eligibility conditions.
step: 3
detail: Document/Eligibility Verification: Verification of prescribed eligibility conditions may occur before or after the written exam; failure to meet conditions will lead to cancellation of candidature.
step: 4
detail: Representations on Questions/Answer Keys: Candidates may submit online representations on questions and provisional answer keys within the specified five-day window after the exam.
step: 5
detail: Tie-Breaking: If final aggregate marks are equal, ranking is decided by (a) higher written total, (b) higher marks in Paper-II+Paper-III, (c) higher marks in Paper-III, (d) seniority by age, and (e) Commission’s discretion if still tied.
How to Apply
- Visit https://upsconline.nic.in.
- Complete Account Creation, Universal Registration, and the Common Application Form (CAF) to obtain a URN.
- Fill the Examination Specific Form for the relevant LDCE during the application window (16.09.2026 to 06.10.2026).
- Upload photograph and capture a live photograph as instructed; ensure clarity.
- Sign three times on plain white paper using black ink, scan, and upload the signature.
- Submit required supporting documents for claims (date of birth, educational qualification) along with URN, CAF and exam form; incomplete documentation may lead to cancellation.
- For Section Officers’ LDCE, print the completed online application by 06.10.2026 and forward it through your Ministry/Department to the concerned CCA and UPSC so it reaches UPSC by 23.10.2026.
- After acceptance, download the e-Admit Card from the Commission’s website when issued.
- note: Applicants are advised to use Aadhaar as ID for verification and authentication.
Important Links
Important Dates
- Date of Notification of Examination:
- Commencement of Online Application:
- Last Date for filling up of Application:
- Last date for receipt of printed copy of application at UPSC (Section Officers’ exam, through proper channel):
- Date of Examination:
- Date of Examination:
- Helpdesk Start:
- Helpdesk End:
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for these LDCE examinations?
Eligibility is restricted to serving government employees who meet the conditions prescribed for their respective service/cadre as per DoPT rules published in the Gazette of India dated 16.09.2026. Specific qualification, minimum service and grade-pay conditions are not detailed in the provided excerpt; candidates must refer to the full notification.
How do I apply for the UPSC Section Officers and Stenographers LDCE?
Apply online through the UPSC common portal at https://upsconline.nic.in by completing account creation, Universal Registration, the Common Application Form (CAF) and the Examination Specific Form during 16.09.2026 to 06.10.2026. For Section Officers’ LDCE, print the completed application and forward it through your Ministry/Department/CCA to UPSC so it reaches by 23.10.2026.
What is the last date to apply for these examinations?
The online application window ends on 06-10-2026 (till 06:00 PM). For Section Officers’ LDCE the printed copy of the application must reach UPSC by 23-10-2026 via the proper channel.
What is the selection process for these LDCE exams?
Selection involves a written examination with objective and descriptive papers and evaluation of service records; admission and evaluation are provisional subject to prescribed eligibility. Candidates may also submit representations on question papers and provisional answer keys within the specified five-day window after the exam.
What salary or pay scale is offered for these posts?
Salary and pay scale details are not specified in the provided notification excerpts. Candidates should refer to the full official notification on https://upsc.gov.in for pay and grade information.





