Updated: Jun 6, 2023
Preliminary examination
This exam is of 400 marks and consists of 200 marks each. It is also known by the name of the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT). It includes multiple-choice questions and each paper is of 2 hours each. The question paper is available in both, Hindi and English, however, questions specifically pertaining to the English language are provided only in English.
Main Examination
This exam is of a total of 2075 marks. Candidates who are successful in clearing the cutoff of the preliminary exam are eligible to appear for the main exam. The main exam is a subjective paper and tests the student’s knowledge in a variety of subjects.
The written exam includes the following papers
| Paper I | this paper is of 300 marks and is a language paper. The candidate has to select one of the Indian languages from the languages as specified in the 8th Schedule of the constitution |
| Paper II | this is an English paper and tests the proficiency of the candidate in the same. |
| Paper III | it includes an essay as well as English Comprehension & English Precis. The level of the paper is of the 10th-grade standard. |
| Paper IV | this is a General Studies paper and it involves subjects such as Indian heritage and culture, the geography of the world as well as its history. |
| Paper IV | it is in continuation of General Studies and includes subjects such as the constitution, governance, polity, international relations and social justice. |
| Paper V | it is in continuation of General Studies and includes subjects such as the constitution, governance, polity, international relations and social justice. |
| Paper VI | it is the second last paper in the series of General studies paper and involves subjects like economic development, biodiversity, environment, security, disaster management, and technology. |
| Paper VIII | being the last in the series of the General Studies paper, the syllabus involves topics such as ethics, integrity, and aptitude. |
| Paper VIII & IX | these two are optional subject papers. |
Personality Test
It is the final stage of the UPSC exam where the candidate’s skills pertaining to speaking ability, general knowledge, and allied capabilities are tested. The interview is taken by a panel of experts from a variety of fields.
He should hold a graduation degree from a Central, Stage or Deemed University
He should be 21 years of age and must not have attained the age of 32 years.
The age for reserved categories may vary.
It offers a secure job along with several perks and benefits.
