What is the difference between DAF-I and DAF-II?

DAF-I is filled after the Prelims result and registers you for the Mains — optional subject, medium and examination centre. DAF-II is filled only after you clear the Mains written examination and collects service preferences, cadre preferences, hobbies, achievements and employment history for the Personality Test and service allocation.

When will UPSC DAF 2 for CSE 2026 open?

UPSC has not notified it. In recent cycles the DAF-II window has opened within days of the Mains written result and stayed open for roughly one to two weeks. Watch upsc.gov.in and the UPSC online portal; there is no advance intimation.

Can I edit DAF-II after submitting it?

No. Once the window closes the form is final. This is why the preparation belongs to the weeks before the Mains result, when you still have time to think about preference order and how you describe your hobbies.

How many marks is the UPSC Personality Test?

275 marks. Added to the 1750 marks of the Mains written papers, the final merit is calculated out of 2025 marks. Paper-A and Paper-B are qualifying and do not count.

Does the interview board see my Mains marks?

No. The board conducts the Personality Test on the basis of your DAF and the discussion itself. Your written marks are added afterwards to produce the final merit list.

Should I list a hobby I have only recently taken up?

Only if you can hold a genuine conversation about it. Boards are practised at finding the floor of a claimed interest. An honest, ordinary hobby you know well is always safer than an impressive one you do not.

Mains Analysis

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Mains Analysis

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UPSC DAF 2 (2026): Every Field Explained and the Questions Each One Invites

UPSC Paper A and Paper B: Qualifying Marks, Exemptions and What Happens If You Fail

UPSC Mains Result 2026: Expected Date, Past Trends and What Happens Next

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UPSC History Optional Question Paper 2026

UPSC Sociology Optional Question Paper 2026

UPSC Mains 2026 Essay Question Paper (21 August 2026): Full Paper, PDF Download & Expert Analysis

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