UPSC

UPSC Examination Overview

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the most prestigious and challenging exams in India. Conducted annually by the Union Public Service Commission, it opens the door to careers in the IAS, IPS, IRS, IFS, and other central services. The exam is held in three stages – Preliminary, Mains, and the Personality Test – testing a candidate’s knowledge, analytical ability, and leadership qualities. Lakhs of aspirants prepare each year, yet only a few make it through, making determination and consistency the key to success. Cracking UPSC is not just about knowledge, but about patience, discipline, and clear vision.

Eligibility Criteria for UPSC Examination

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Eligibility Criteria for UPSC Examination in clear pointers:

1. Nationality:
   • For IAS, IPS, and other Group A & B services: Must be a citizen of India.
   • For certain services (like Assistant Commandants in CAPF, or officers in IFS): Subjects of Nepal, Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees may also apply.
2. Age Limit:
   • General category: 21 to 32 years.
   • OBC: Up to 35 years.
   • SC/ST: Up to 37 years.
   • Physically disabled: Up to 42 years.
   • Ex-servicemen: Relaxation as per government rules.
3. Educational Qualification:
   • Must hold a graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
   • Final-year students can also apply but must provide proof of graduation before the interview stage.
   • Certain technical services may require specific degrees.
4. Number of Attempts:
   • General category: 6 attempts.
   • OBC: 9 attempts.
   • SC/ST: Unlimited until age limit.
5. Physical and Medical Standards:
   • Required for services like IAS, IPS, IFS, and CAPF.
   • Vision, hearing, and overall fitness must meet prescribed standards.
6. Other Requirements:
   • Must have a clear record, i.e., not convicted of any criminal offense.
   • Must be able to read, write, and speak English or Hindi proficiently.

UPSC Syllabus:

The UPSC Civil Services Examination follows a three-stage process – Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Each stage tests candidates on knowledge, analytical ability, and personality traits.

1. Preliminary Examination (Objective Type):

• Paper I (General Studies): Indian Polity, History, Geography, Economy, Environment, Science & Technology, Current Affairs.
• Paper II (CSAT – Qualifying): Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, Decision Making, Basic Numeracy.

2. Mains Examination (Descriptive Type):

• Compulsory Papers: Essay, English, Indian Language.
• General Studies Papers I–IV: Indian Heritage & Culture, Governance, International Relations, Social Justice, Economy, Environment, Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude.
• Optional Subject (Two Papers): Candidates choose from a wide range of subjects (e.g., Public Administration, History, Sociology, Geography, Literature).

3. Personality Test (Interview):

• Assesses communication skills, leadership, ethical values, and awareness of national and international issues.

Important Dates & Notifications:

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) releases its annual examination calendar with detailed schedules for the Civil Services Examination. Staying updated on these notifications is crucial for every aspirant.

• Notification Release: Usually published in February on the official UPSC website.

• Application Window: Remains open for around 3–4 weeks after notification.

• Preliminary Examination: Conducted in May/June each year.

• Prelims Result: Declared within 45–60 days of the exam.

• Mains Examination: Held in September/October.

• Mains Result: Released in December/January.

• Personality Test (Interview): Conducted in February–April.

• Final Result: Announced in May, marking the completion of the cycle.

Candidates should regularly check the official UPSC website (www.upsc.gov.in) for authentic notifications, exam guidelines, and updates.

Top Coaching Institutes for UPSC Preparation:

1. Tathastu ICS – India’s only residential UPSC college

2. Vajiram & Ravi

3. Vision IAS