🔍 What’s the New Rule?

The Union Public service Commission (UPSC) has officially introduced face authentication (facial recognition) at exam centres as a mandatory check for all candidates appearing in its recruitment exams, including the Civil services Examination and other tests like NDA and CDS.

This technology uses AI‑based facial recognition systems to verify that the person entering the exam hall is the same individual who registered and uploaded their photo during the application process.

📍 Why the Change?

The move is part of UPSC’s efforts to enhance exam security, prevent impersonation, curb malpractice, and maintain the integrity of its competitive exams. Traditional ID checks alone sometimes fail to stop impersonation and other unfair practices, so this tech adds an extra layer of real‑time verification.

UPSC piloted this technology successfully in pilot tests conducted during nda and CDS exams in 2025, where the face authentication system matched live candidate images with their application photos in around 8–10 seconds.

🧠 How It Works on Exam Day

Report Early: Candidates must arrive at the exam venue in time to complete all entry checks.

Admit Card + ID Check: Standard verification of admit card and government‑issued ID is done first.

Face Authentication: A specialised camera or scanner captures a live facial image of the candidate. This is instantly matched with the recent photo they submitted online during registration.

Authentication Pass Required: Only candidates whose live face scan matches their registered photo will be allowed inside to sit for the exam.

📸 Important Candidate Instructions

  • Upload a clear, high‑quality, and recent photo during registration—no heavy filters or edits.
  • Maintain consistent appearance with the uploaded photo on exam day (e.g., avoid drastic hairstyle changes).
  • Arriving early is recommended so there’s enough time for facial verification without stress.

🏅 Expected Impact

This biometric face authentication system is aimed at making UPSC exams fairer, more secure, and technologically robust, aligning them with modern verification practices seen in other national exams and recruitment processes.

In summary, clearing the facial authentication check is now compulsory—candidates must pass this biometric step at the test centre to be allowed into the examination hall. It’s a major shift in exam entry protocol designed to strengthen security and reduce fraud.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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Balasahana Suresh

14/01/2026 10:25 AM