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Submission of the UPSC Detailed Application Form (DAF) is a crucial phase of a UPSC aspirant’s journey. It provides all the information about a candidate, and the interviewers build up their perspective through the information provided in DAF. Filling it accurately is crucial as it is an authentic representation of the candidate. In this article, you get to know everything about UPSC DAF 2025 – its importance, the key elements and tips to fill the form.
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What is the UPSC DAF?
The Detailed Application Form (DAF) is a comprehensive document in the UPSC interview process. Candidates need to fill this document after clearing the Prelims. It includes personal details, educational qualifications, work experience, professional information and preferences for services and cadre.
DAF serves as a tool for the interviewers to assess your suitability for various administrative roles. Their questions will be based on the information you provide in the form.
Important Dates for UPSC DAF 2025
1: Which one of the following is not a Harappan site?
Candidates who have qualified in the UPSC CSE Prelims Result 2025 conducted on 25 May, 2025 are eligible to appear for the Mains Exam. The DAF for Mains registration will be available on the official UPSC website – upsc.gov.in – from June 16 to June 25, 2025. The Mains will be held on 22nd August, 2025. The interview date will be announced once the Mains results are out. Candidates must stay updated via the official UPSC website.
Key Sections in DAF-1
DAF-1 is submitted after clearing the Prelims and serves as the foundation for your candidature in the Mains stage. It consists of the following:
Personal Information
Name, date of birth, gender, category, parent’s name, address, contact details etc. Ensure that the details are as per official documents. The contact details you provide should be an active mobile number and email id.
Educational Qualifications
Here you have to give your academic details like board of class 10 and 12, degree, name of the university, year of passing, percentage etc. Do not forget to mention any professional courses or certifications.
Employment Details
Work experience, if any (organization name, duration, designation)
Service & Cadre Preferences
Mention the order of preference for services. For example, IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, etc. Rank Central Services and Group B Services as per your preference.
For Cadre preferences, select cadres in the order of preference from the given zones.
Other Details
Mention your hobbies and interests. Be honest while filling these details as these can become key interview topics.
Mention achievements and awards in University/State/National level including scholarships and language proficiency.
Steps to Fill DAF-1
- Log in to the UPSC portal using your credentials.
- Upload the Required Documents:
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- Educational certificates (PDF format).
- Scanned photograph and signature (JPG format).
- Caste/ EWS/ PwD certificates (if applicable).
- Cross-check the details and submit the form.
Key Sections in DAF- 2
DAF-2 is submitted after clearing the Mains. Filling this form in the best possible way is an opportunity for the candidates to showcase their abilities and interests apart from academics. It includes:
- Final academic records
- Job details (if any)
- Achievements, awards, publications
- Languages spoken and known
- Parental and guardian details
The Interview Board uses DAF-2 to frame questions, so everything must be factually correct and well-thought-out. Include the details that you have not given in DAF – 1 and be prepared for in-depth questions about the information provided here.
Steps to Fill DAF- 2
- Login to the UPSC website and access the DAF-2 section.
- Review details in DAF – 1.
- Upload additional documents.
- Review and submit.
Tips for Filling UPSC DAF 2025
- Keep documents ready – Have your mark sheets, ID proofs, and certificates scanned in advance.
- Proofread your form to eliminate any errors.
- Be honest and consistent: Details in DAF-2 should match what you’ve stated in DAF-1.
- Be prepared for detailed questions about your hobbies, achievements or any other information provided in the form.
- Choose your cadre and service preferences wisely and justify your preferences logically.
Conclusion
The DAF is an integral part of UPSC as it guides the interview board on what to ask you. It is a reflection of your personality, interests, and background. It is a blueprint of your identity, so take utmost care in filling the form as any incorrect or exaggerated entries can backfire.
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