BharatNotes DAF-I is filled by Prelims qualifiers to register for Mains (typically mid-June, for about 10 days); DAF-II is filled by Mains qualifiers to register for the Personality Test (typically within 2 weeks of the Mains result).
The Detailed Application Form (DAF) is a critical step in the UPSC CSE process and comes in two distinct parts:
DAF-I (Detailed Application Form — I): Filled by candidates who qualify the Preliminary Examination. It serves as formal registration for the Civil Services (Main) Examination.
- Contains biographical data, educational qualifications, service preferences, and optional subject choice
- For CSE 2025: window was open 16 June 2025 to 25 June 2025 (approximately 10 days)
- A registration fee of Rs 200 applies (exempted for women, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates)
- Submitted on upsconline.gov.in
- For CSE 2026: DAF-I window expected approximately mid-June 2026 (after Prelims result)
DAF-II (Detailed Application Form — II): Filled exclusively by candidates who clear the Main Examination and are shortlisted for the Personality Test.
- Contains detailed background information, hobbies, extracurriculars, and personal data that the interview board uses to frame questions
- For CSE 2025: released 13 November 2025 (two days after the Mains result), with deadline 27 November 2025 at 6 PM
- Submitted online at upsc.gov.in or upsconline.gov.in
Key planning tip: Aspirants should have all documents, certificates, and service preference lists ready well in advance. Incorrect service preferences in DAF-I or factual errors in DAF-II can affect service allocation and interview preparation. UPSC does not ordinarily allow changes after submission.
