UPSC Exam Pattern 2025

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is conducted in three stages: Preliminary Examination (Prelims), Main Examination (Mains), and the Personality Test (Interview). Here is a detailed overview of UPSC Exam Pattern

1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims)

The Prelims serve as a screening test for the Mains. It consists of two objective-type papers:

General Studies Paper I (GS Paper I):
- Subjects: Current events, History of India, Indian and World Geography, Indian Polity and Governance, Economic and Social Development, Environmental Ecology, General Science.
- Marks: 200
- Duration: 2 hours
General Studies Paper II (CSAT):
- Subjects: Comprehension, Interpersonal skills, Logical reasoning and analytical ability, Decision-making, General mental ability, Basic numeracy, Data interpretation.
- Marks: 200
- Duration: 2 hours
- Note: This paper is qualifying in nature, requiring a minimum of 33% to pass.

2. Main Examination (Mains)

The Mains is a written exam consisting of nine papers, including two qualifying papers and seven papers counted for ranking.

Qualifying Papers:
- Paper A: Indian Language (selected by the candidate from the languages included in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution).
  - Marks: 300
- Paper B: English
  - Marks: 300
Papers Counted for Merit:
- Essay (Paper I)
  - Marks: 250
- General Studies Papers:
  - Paper II: General Studies I (Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society)
    - Marks: 250
  - Paper III: General Studies II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations)
    - Marks: 250
  - Paper IV: General Studies III (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management)
    - Marks: 250
  - Paper V: General Studies IV (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude)
    - Marks: 250
- Optional Subject Papers (two papers from one optional subject chosen by the candidate):
  - Paper VI: Optional Subject Paper 1
    - Marks: 250
  - Paper VII: Optional Subject Paper 2
    - Marks: 250

3. Personality Test (Interview)

Marks: 275

Total Marks:

Mains (written): 1750
Interview: 275
Grand Total: 2025

Important Points:

Qualifying Nature: Only the marks of the papers counted for merit in the Mains and the Interview determine the final ranking.
Selection: Candidates are selected based on their performance in the Mains and Interview, and the final merit list is prepared accordingly.

About UPSC

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India’s premier central recruiting agency responsible for conducting various examinations to recruit candidates for top-level civil services and other government positions. It plays a crucial role in selecting individuals for important roles in the Indian administrative system, shaping the governance of the country.

Key Points about UPSC:

1. Constitutional Authority:

The UPSC is an independent body established under Article 315 to 323 of the Indian Constitution.
It ensures merit-based and impartial recruitment to the All India Services (IAS, IPS, IFS), Central Services, and other government departments.

2. Examinations Conducted by UPSC:

Civil Services Examination (CSE): The most prestigious exam, it recruits for services like IAS, IPS, IFS, and IRS.
Engineering Services Examination (ESE): For recruitment into engineering positions in the government.
Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS): For recruitment into the Indian Armed Forces.
Indian Forest Service (IFS) Examination.
National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination.
Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) Examination.
Several other specialized exams, including Medical Services Examination, Geoscientist Examination, etc.

3. Civil Services Examination (CSE):

Stages: The CSE consists of three stages:
1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims): Objective-type screening test.
2. Main Examination (Mains): Written exam with nine papers, including essay-type questions.
3. Interview/Personality Test: The final stage where candidates are tested on their personality, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
Eligibility:
- Age: 21 to 32 years (with relaxations for reserved categories).
- Educational Qualification: Graduation from a recognized university.
- Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens for IAS, IPS, and IFS.
Success Rate: Less than 1% of candidates make it through the final stage, making it one of the toughest exams in India.

4. Roles and Functions:

Recruitment: UPSC recruits for key governmental roles that impact policymaking, public administration, law enforcement, foreign relations, and national security.
Consultation: The UPSC advises the government on matters related to personnel management, promotions, transfers, and disciplinary actions.
Examination Conduct: Ensures transparent and unbiased examinations.

5. Importance of UPSC in Indian Governance:

UPSC plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of the Indian administrative system by selecting competent individuals who serve in crucial positions across the country.
The officers selected through UPSC exams are involved in policy formulation, implementation, and governance at both the state and central levels.

6. Challenges and Criticisms:

Extremely Competitive: With a large number of aspirants and a limited number of seats, the success rate is very low.
Syllabus Complexity: The vast syllabus covering history, geography, polity, economics, ethics, and current affairs is often cited as a challenge.
Long Preparation Period: Candidates typically spend 1-2 years preparing for the exam.

Significance of UPSC-CSE:

For those aspiring to join the civil services, cracking the UPSC-CSE is seen as a gateway to a prestigious career with significant influence over India’s administrative machinery. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a comprehensive understanding of various academic subjects and national/international affairs.

for more Details visit upsc official websites

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UPSC Exam Pattern 2025