DAF-1: Detailed Application Form for Mains Examination
DAF-1 is submitted after clearing the Preliminary Examination and serves as the foundation for your candidature in the Mains stage.
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Key Sections in DAF-1
A. Personal Information
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- Name, Date of Birth, and Gender: Ensure these match your matriculation certificate.
- Parent’s Names: Fill exactly as per official documents.
- Address: Provide a current and valid correspondence address for communication.
- Contact Details: Active mobile number and email ID.
B. Educational Qualifications
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- Class 10 and Class 12:
- Board, Year of Passing, Percentage, and Subjects.
- Graduation and Post-Graduation:
- Degree Name, University, Year of Passing, Percentage/Grade.
- Mention any professional courses or certifications.
- Class 10 and Class 12:
C. Employment Details (if applicable)
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- Current and Past Jobs:
- Organization name, designation, responsibilities, and duration.
- Include specific details relevant to civil services.
- Current and Past Jobs:
D. Service Preferences
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- Order of Preference for Services:
- IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, etc.
- Be realistic and research the roles, responsibilities, and career paths.
- Allied Services: Rank Central Services and Group B Services as per your preference.
- Order of Preference for Services:
E. Cadre Preferences (For IAS and IPS)
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- Zones and States: Select cadres in the order of preference from the given zones.
- Home State: Mention domicile if applicable (priority for home cadre varies by policy).
F. Optional Subject for Mains
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- Choose one optional subject from the UPSC-approved list. Your choice should align with your strengths and preparation.
G. Other Details
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- Hobbies and Interests: Mention genuine hobbies you actively pursue.
- Achievements and Awards: Include scholarships, competitions, or notable accomplishments.
- Languages Known: Indicate proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking.
Steps to Fill DAF-1
- Log in to the UPSC Portal: Use your credentials to access the DAF-1 section.
- Upload Required Documents:
- Educational certificates (PDF format).
- Scanned photograph and signature (JPG format).
- Caste/EWS/PwD certificates (if applicable).
- Submit and Review: Cross-check all details and download the submitted form for reference.
DAF-2: Detailed Application Form for the Personality Test
DAF-2 is submitted after clearing the Mains examination and provides additional details that guide the interview process.
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Key Sections in DAF-2
A. Personal Information
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- Similar to DAF-1, but ensure the details match exactly.
B. Educational Details
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- Include qualifications from Class 10 onwards, as in DAF-1.
- Add any additional certifications or ongoing courses.
C. Work Experience
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- Mention employment details if you have gained experience after submitting DAF-1.
- Specify roles and responsibilities concisely.
D. Service Preferences
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- Re-confirm your preferences for All-India and Central Services.
- This is your final chance to modify the order.
E. Cadre Preferences
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- Similar to DAF-1, but ensure they align with your long-term goals.
- If domicile rules apply, verify your eligibility for home cadre preference.
F. Hobbies and Interests
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- Provide the same hobbies and interests as DAF-1 unless you wish to refine them.
- Be prepared for in-depth questions about these.
G. Achievements and Extracurricular Activities
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- Add any new achievements not mentioned in DAF-1.
- Be honest and ensure you can substantiate your claims.
H. Language Proficiency
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- Include all languages you can read, write, or speak.
- Mention mother tongue and any foreign languages.
Steps to Fill DAF-2
- Log in to the UPSC Portal: Access the DAF-2 section.
- Review Details from DAF-1:
- Ensure consistency between the two forms.
- Upload Additional Documents:
- Updated educational or employment certificates.
- Relevant documents for achievements or hobbies.
- Submit and Download: Review thoroughly and save a copy for interview preparation.
Differences Between DAF-1 and DAF-2
Aspect | DAF-1 | DAF-2 |
When Submitted | After Prelims | After Mains |
Purpose | For Mains Examination | For Personality Test |
Details | Focuses on education, services, and cadre preferences | Focuses on achievements, hobbies, and updates |
Modifications Allowed | Yes (preferences for services and cadres) | Yes (achievements, hobbies, and preferences) |
Tips for Filling Both Forms
- Honesty is Key: Avoid exaggerations, as these will be verified in the interview.
- Be Consistent: Details in DAF-2 should align with DAF-1 unless there’s a valid update.
- Prepare for Interview Questions:
- Hobbies: Be ready to discuss your hobbies in-depth.
- Achievements: Expect questions on their significance.
- Languages: Be prepared for basic conversational questions.
- Cadres and Services: Justify your preferences logically.
- Proofread: Review multiple times for errors.
By filling DAF-1 and DAF-2 diligently, you not only present a strong profile but also prepare yourself thoroughly for the interview stage.
FAQs on UPSC DAF
- What is the purpose of DAF-1?
DAF-1 is submitted after clearing the Preliminary Examination. It captures details about your personal background, educational qualifications, employment history (if any), service and cadre preferences, and optional subject for the Mains exam. It forms the basis for your Mains examination and initial profiling.
- Can I make changes to the service and cadre preferences after submitting DAF-1?
Yes, you can modify your service and cadre preferences when filling DAF-2 after clearing the Mains exam. However, once submitted through DAF-2, these preferences become final and cannot be changed.
- What documents are mandatory for uploading in DAF-1?
- Scanned photograph (JPG format).
- Scanned signature (JPG format).
- Class X certificate (for age proof).
- Class XII certificate.
- Graduation degree/provisional degree certificate.
- Caste certificate (if applicable).
- PwD certificate (if applicable).
- EWS certificate (if applicable).
- How do I rank services in the service preference section?
Research the roles, responsibilities, and career progression of each service before ranking them. Popular preferences include IAS, IPS, IFS, and IRS. Choose realistically based on your interests and aptitude.
- Can I leave the employment details section blank if I am unemployed?
Yes, if you are not currently employed or do not have prior work experience, you can leave the employment section blank or mark it as “Not Applicable.”
- How should I select my optional subject for Mains?
Choose a subject:
- You are genuinely interested in.
- You have studied previously (if applicable).
- That has ample study material and resources available.
- Matches your strengths and preparation strategy.
- Can I use initials for my name in DAF-1?
No, your full name must match the name mentioned on your matriculation certificate.
- What happens if there’s an error in my DAF-1 submission?
Minor errors may be corrected at the interview stage if the discrepancy is genuine. However, major errors or inconsistencies can lead to rejection of your candidature. Review thoroughly before submission.
- What is the purpose of DAF-2?
DAF-2 is submitted after clearing the Mains examination. It provides updated details about your achievements, hobbies, service preferences, cadre preferences, and other relevant information that guides the interview process.
Can I modify details provided in DAF-1 when filling DAF-2?
You can update certain sections such as:
- Hobbies and interests.
- Achievements or extracurricular activities.
- Service and cadre preferences. Ensure the changes are logical and justifiable.
Should hobbies and interests in DAF-2 match those in DAF-1?
It’s not mandatory, but maintaining consistency is advisable unless you’ve genuinely developed new interests since submitting DAF-1. Avoid generic hobbies like “reading books” unless you can discuss them in detail.
How do I upload supporting documents for achievements?
If required, scan the relevant documents (certificates, awards, etc.) and upload them in PDF format within the specified size limit. Ensure they are legible.
What types of achievements should I mention in DAF-2?
Include achievements from:
- Academics: Scholarships, rank holder, etc.
- Extracurricular activities: Leadership roles, sports, arts, etc.
- Professional achievements: Awards, project success, etc.
Can I change my cadre preference in DAF-2?
Yes, DAF-2 allows you to revise cadre preferences. Choose wisely, as these preferences become final after submission.
How should I prepare for questions based on DAF-2 during the Personality Test?
- Review every detail provided in DAF-2.
- Be ready to explain your hobbies, interests, and achievements with real-life examples.
- Research your home state and cadre preferences.
- Expect questions on your service preferences and their alignment with your skills.
What happens if there’s a discrepancy between DAF-1 and DAF-2?
Inconsistencies may raise doubts during the interview and can negatively impact your evaluation. Always ensure the information aligns, and update only when necessary with valid reasons.
Is it mandatory to mention all languages I know in DAF-2?
Yes, list all languages you can read, write, or speak. Be prepared to demonstrate your proficiency if asked during the interview.
What if I miss the submission deadline?
Failure to submit DAF-2 within the specified timeline will result in the cancellation of your candidature. Ensure you keep track of deadlines and submit the form well in advance.
General Tips for Both DAFs
- Read Instructions Thoroughly: UPSC provides detailed guidelines for filling the DAF. Follow them carefully.
- Cross-Verify Details: Ensure consistency across DAF-1 and DAF-2.
- Proofread: Check for grammatical and factual errors before final submission.
- Stay Genuine: Avoid fabricating hobbies, achievements, or details.
- Submit Early: Don’t wait until the last date to avoid technical glitches.
Register for DAF Session- with Vikash Ranjan Sir Call: 7840888102
Interested Student can send theirs DAF on rtriumphias@gmail.com
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