How to fill DAF-II
Content
- What is DAF II in UPSC?
- Details Required to Fill the DAF 2 UPSC Form
- How to Fill the UPSC DAF 2 Form?
- Column on Education Qualification
- Column on Home State
- Column on Hobbies and Activities
- Column On Cadre Preference
- Column on Service Allocation
Here, you will get a detailed process, tips, and clarity on how to fill DAF-II correctly so that it strengthens your performance in the Personality Test.
DAF-II refers to the Detailed Application Form. The UPSC DAF 2 is a detailed document that candidates are required to complete with their personal, educational, and additional pertinent information. Candidates must supply thorough details regarding their educational background, work experience, preferences for services and cadre, along with other associated information. Candidates submit this form after UPSC releases the results of the CSE Main Examination, once they have successfully cleared it.
What is DAF II in UPSC?
Candidates must complete and submit the Detailed Application Form (DAF-II), available on the official UPSC website, to participate in the Personality Test. This important document gathers essential information regarding the candidates’ background, education, and their preferences for different services and cadres. Its significance increases because it also helps shape the questions the panel asks during the interview. The form enables the UPSC board to understand the candidates’ personalities, backgrounds, and interests. Accurately completing this form is crucial for providing a truthful depiction of the candidate.
UPSC CSE Interview focuses entirely on the information that the candidate provides in DAF-II. The inquiries made by the board seem to be closely linked to the details shared by the candidate, as it is a true reflection of their character, values, background, education, and professional experience. Thus, it is vital to fill out DAF-II diligently and accurately, adhering to the instructions and guidelines set forth by UPSC.
Details Required to Fill the DAF 2 UPSC Form
UPSC will make the DAF-II available on its website in December 2025. You need to complete all 9 sections of the UPSC DAF-II:
- Mother Tongue
- Place of Birth
- Personal Details
- Education Qualifications
- Higher Educational Qualifications
- Home State
- Hobbies and co-curricular activities
- Cadre Preference
- Service Allocation
Once the candidates have completed all sections of the DAF-II, they must submit it online and print a copy. It is necessary to bring the printed DAF-II along with any required annexures, such as the OBC Annexure and EWS Annexure, to the interview location and present both the DAF-II and the annexures to the UPSC officials prior to the interview.
How to Fill the UPSC DAF 2 Form?
The DAF-II is more than just a form; it represents your character, accomplishments, and goals. This form should showcase not only your tangible achievements but also your interpersonal qualities such as honesty, integrity, public service, leadership, willingness to contribute to society, and career ambitions. Therefore, it is essential to complete the DAF-II with great care and consideration, keeping in mind the following advice and strategies:
- Carefully review the instructions and guidelines provided by UPSC for completing the DAF-II before beginning the process. You should print out the form, fill it in, review it several times, get it checked by a mentor, and then complete and submit the final version. Ensure that your DAF Form is free from any spelling or grammatical mistakes. Be cautious not to come across as overly confident while filling out your DAF-II, as this form will be crucial in shaping the Interview Board’s perception of you.
- Maintain honesty and consistency when completing the DAF-II. Your responses should convey a unified tone and not contradict one another. Avoid providing any false or misleading details in the form, as this could result in disqualification or legal repercussions
Column on Education Qualification
The education qualification section for DAF-II requires you to share information about your academic accomplishments, including degrees, diplomas, certificates, and the marks you received. Here are some suggestions for completing this section:
- If you possess any professional qualifications like CA, CS, ICWA, etc., list them after your educational degrees. Include the name of the institution, the year you completed the course, and the rank or score you achieved.
- If you have any additional qualifications—such as foreign language courses, computer courses, or certificate programs—list them at the end of the section.
- Make sure the details you provide correspond with your supporting documents, including mark sheets and certificates. Avoid lying or amplifying your educational qualifications, as this could result in disqualification or legal consequences.
Column on Home State
Your home state significantly influences your Personality Test. Based on your responses in this section, the board can ask questions about the historical, political, social, and economic aspects, themes, and government initiatives of your state.
For Example, your Home State is UP.
Here are several questions that the panel may ask about Uttar Pradesh:
- Why do experts consider Uttar Pradesh the most politically significant state in India?
- Name the major dynasties that ruled over regions of present-day UP.
- What is the cultural importance of Ayodhya / Kashi / Mathura?
- Why is Purvanchal economically backward compared to Western UP?
- Explain the differences between the Awadh region and Bundelkhand.
- UP is known for high population-Is it an advantage or a burden?
- What are the major industries of Noida, Kanpur, and Aligarh?
- Why has UP historically had low human development indicators?
- What are the causes behind frequent communal tensions in UP?
- Discuss the significance of the Ganga Expressway for UP’s economy.
Column on Hobbies and Activities
In the hobbies and activities section of the DAF-II Form, you should list your interests, passions, and leisure activities that you participate in frequently. This section allows you to highlight your character, abilities, and principles to the interview panel. Here are some suggestions for completing this section:
Be genuine and true to yourself
- Avoid mentioning interests that you don’t genuinely engage in or appreciate, just to impress the committee. They can easily detect if you’re being dishonest or overstating your passions. Focus on hobbies you can speak about with confidence and demonstrate your interest and knowledge.
Be detailed and pertinent:
- Don’t simply list broad or indistinct hobbies like reading, music, or sports. Instead, specify the genres, artists, or teams you follow, as well as the books, songs, or games you enjoy.
Be prepared and informed
- Be ready to respond to questions about your hobbies and activities, such as the reasons you chose them, how you engage with them, what insights you’ve gained, or how they benefit you or others. Additionally, stay informed about the latest news, trends, or developments in your interests.
Column On Cadre Preference
Understanding cadre preference is crucial as it influences your workplace location, language, culture, and professional opportunities for the coming decades. If you aspire to work in government, you must be prepared to serve in any region of the country.
- It’s important to explore the various cadres and match them with your career goals, strengths, and interests. Consider aspects such as development, governance, security, diversity, climate, and personal or family circumstances when making your cadre selections.
- Be realistic and adaptable concerning your cadre preferences, as there is no assurance that you’ll receive your top choice. So, your rank, category, available positions, and the preferences of other applicants influence the assignment of cadres.
- Ensure that you thoroughly complete your cadre preference list without any empty spaces or duplicate entries. And fill out your cadre preferences carefully and with certainty since you won’t be able to modify them after submitting your DAF-II Form. Additionally, be ready to articulate your choices during the interview if the board inquires about them.
Column on Service Allocation
Completing the service allocation column is a crucial choice, as it will influence your future career and postings. But the selection of service preference is entirely personal, it’s wise not to be overly self-assured about it.
Gather information
- Conduct some investigation into the functions, duties, and challenges associated with each service and cadre. And you might explore the official websites of the various services or read about the experiences of past candidates and officers. Additionally, utilize the web search findings from my tool to gather information.
Rank the services
- Rank the services and cadres based on your interests, abilities, and suitability. Reflect on your personality, strengths, weaknesses, ambitions, and values. Avoid being swayed by peer pressure, family expectations, or stereotypes. so, be truthful with yourself and select what you genuinely wish to pursue.
Prepare alternative choices
- Stay adaptable and pragmatic. And don’t rely solely on one option. Prepare alternative choices in case your top preference doesn’t work out. But Keep in mind that no service or cadre is flawless, and each choice has its advantages and disadvantages. Your attitude and performance can enhance any situation.
Review your entries before submitting
- Complete the column meticulously and precisely. Adhere to the guidelines provided by UPSC and steer clear of any mistakes or omissions. Review your entries thoroughly before submitting the form. Once the form is submitted, you cannot modify your preferences, so ensure you are content with your selections.
The DAF-II is an essential document that can significantly influence your chances of passing the Personality Test and achieving your desired service and cadre. Hence, ensure that you complete the DAF-II with great care and precision, adhering to the guidelines and instructions set forth by UPSC. Fill out the form truthfully and consistently, with attention to detail and relevance, as well as preparation and confidence. Prioritize the quality of your responses over their quantity. To get a dedicated UPSC Guidiance so sign in our Mentorship Program. Best of luck!
FAQs
1. What is DAF-II and when is it filled?
You fill the DAF-II (Detailed Application Form-II) after clearing the UPSC CSE Mains. You must submit it before the Personality Test/Interview, and it includes your service preference, cadre preference, educational details, work experience, hobbies, and other personal information.
2. Can I change my service and cadre preferences in DAF-II?
No. Service preferences and cadre preferences selected in DAF-I cannot be changed in DAF-II. DAF-II only verifies and reconfirms your earlier choices.
3. What documents are required while filling DAF-II?
You must upload:
- Class 10 & 12 mark sheets
- Graduation degree & mark sheets
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- EWS/OBC certificate in latest prescribed format
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Certificates for sports, NCC, technical degrees, achievements, etc.
All documents must be clear, readable, and in PDF format.
4. How important are “Hobbies” and “Achievements” in DAF-II?
Very important. UPSC interview board uses these sections to frame personal questions. Only write hobbies and achievements that you can authentically discuss in depth during the interview.
5. What happens if there is a mistake in my DAF-II?
UPSC is very strict with DAF-II. Incorrect entries, false claims, or mismatched documents may lead to:
- Disqualification,
- Cancellation of candidature, or
- Issues during document verification.
Click on the question to see the Answers
