Quick Summary
UPSC replaced its earlier standalone One Time Registration (OTR) module with a new Online Application Portal, where account creation and universal registration together serve the same purpose as the old OTR did.
UPSC's earlier OTR module is no longer valid for new applications. If you only have an old OTR profile, you will still need to create a fresh account on the new upsconline.nic.in portal.
Overview
Also searched as: One Time Registration UPSC
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) runs its own One Time Registration (OTR) system, separate from every other state or central recruitment body. Once you complete OTR here, the same registration number carries forward to future UPSC recruitment cycles, so you don't need to refill your personal and educational details each time a new notification is released.
Official Portal & Login
UPSC OTR registration and login is done through the commission's own official website — upsconline.nic.in (new UPSC Online Application Portal). The commission's older, separate One Time Registration (OTR) module is no longer used for filling fresh applications — UPSC has moved candidates to a unified Online Application Portal that combines account creation, universal registration and exam-specific applications in one place. Always type the URL directly or search for it rather than clicking links from unofficial messages, since fake look-alike portals are a common scam around exam season.
Portal names, URLs and OTR requirements change from time to time. Cross-check the current link and any active notification on UPSC's official website before entering personal details or paying a fee.
Registration Steps
- Visit the official UPSC Online Application Portal at upsconline.nic.in.
- Create your account with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Complete 'Universal Registration' with personal, educational and identity details — this step is common across all UPSC exams and only needs to be done once.
- Fill the 'Common Application Form' details that apply broadly to UPSC exams.
- When a specific exam (Civil Services, CDS, NDA, CAPF, etc.) is notified, log in and complete only the exam-specific section.
- Review and submit before the notified last date.
Documents Required
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar card | Recommended primary identity document on the new portal |
| Educational certificates | Qualification proof relevant to the exam applied for |
| Photograph and signature | Digital uploads in the specified format |
| Category/PwBD certificate | For candidates claiming reservation or disability benefit |
Important Dates
Universal registration on the new portal can be completed at any time; each UPSC exam (Civil Services, NDA, CDS, CAPF, Engineering Services and others) then opens its own notification-specific application window with its own last date.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Each state or commission — including UPSC — runs a separate OTR system. A registration number from one portal cannot be used on another.
Most portals allow limited correction of contact details and photo/signature before a specific notification's application window closes. Core details like date of birth may need a formal correction request. Check the current correction-window rules on the official site.
One Time Registration itself is typically free; category-based or exam-specific application fees are charged separately when you apply to a specific notification. Confirm current fee rules on the official portal.
Conclusion
Completing UPSC OTR early — well before an exam notification is released — is the single easiest way to avoid last-day registration rush and technical errors. Keep your registration number and login password saved somewhere permanent.