UPSC, SSC Exams: Relief for differently-abled students, old rules apply till December 31..

UPSC, SSC Exams: If you have a disability and are preparing for any competitive exam like UPSC, SSC, Banking, or Railways, this news brings you a sigh of relief. The government has withdrawn the rule made on August 1, 2025, prohibiting you from bringing your own scribe. Now, in all exams announced until December 31, 2025, you will be able to bring your preferred scribe as before.

What is a scribe?
A scribe is a person who writes the paper for a candidate with a disability. If the candidate has difficulty working, has vision problems, or writing difficulties, the scribe writes the answers at the candidate's request. This facility is meant to provide equal opportunities to people with disabilities.

What happened before?
On August 1, 2025, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) issued a new rule stating that only the Commission's scribe will be required, not their own. This caused millions of students to worry because they trust their scribes, as they help with speed and understanding.

What has changed now?

DEPwD has issued a new clarification. Under this, the old rules will remain in effect for all scheduled examinations until December 31, 2025, meaning you can bring your own scribe.

What are the new requirements?

However, some new requirements have also been added. First, the age limit for scribes has been set. If the scribe is a 10th-grade pass, the maximum age is 20 years; if they are a 12th-grade pass, the maximum age is 20 years, and if they are a graduate, the maximum age is 22 years. This will ensure that the scribe is there only for assistance, not for profit. Another rule is that it will be mandatory to verify the scribe's Aadhaar card in the examination hall. If your Aadhaar is missing or found to be incorrect, you will have to hire a scribe from the Commission or forfeit the scribe facility. All other rules will apply to the Scribe Guidelines of October 25, 2024, and the old guidelines of 2018-2022.

Which exams are covered?
These rules apply to all exams, including UPSC CSE, CDS, NDA, SSC CGL, CHSL, MTS, IBPS, SBI, RBI, Railway NTPC, Group D, State PSC, Police, and Teacher Recruitment, which will be notified by December 31, 2025.

Why is this important?
Having your own scribe increases your speed, improves understanding, and reduces stress. The Commission's scribe sometimes struggles with language, handwriting, or speed. Now, until December 31, 2025, you have the freedom to choose your trusted partner.

What to do now?
Have your scribe ready. Check their Aadhaar card. Check if you are within the age limit and focus on your studies. This decision is a relief for students with disabilities. The old facility will remain in place until December 31, 2025.

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