Exam Pattern

The UPSC Civil Services Exam, also known as the IAS Exam (Indian Administrative Service Exam), is one of the most prestigious and competitive exams in India. The exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and is the gateway to various civil services in India, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS), among others. Here is the exam pattern for the UPSC Civil Services Exam:

1. Preliminary Examination (Objective Type):

• • Paper I - General Studies: This paper consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 2 marks, for a total of 200 marks. It covers topics such as current events, history, geography, polity, economics, science, and technology.

  • Paper II - Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT): This paper consists of 80 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 2.5 marks, for a total of 200 marks. It tests a candidate's aptitude and comprehension skills.

Note: The Preliminary Examination serves as a screening test, and the marks obtained in Paper II (CSAT) are not considered for qualification to the Main Examination but are essential to qualify for the Main Examination.

2. Main Examination (Written Examination): The Main Examination consists of nine papers, and it is a descriptive type of examination.

• • Paper A - Indian Language: Candidates need to choose one of the Indian languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. This paper is of qualifying nature and is not counted for the final ranking. It's mandatory to score at least 25% marks to qualify.

  • Paper B - English: This paper is also of qualifying nature and is not counted for the final ranking. Candidates must score at least 25% marks to qualify.

  • Essay Paper: Candidates have to write two essays, each carrying 125 marks.

  • General Studies Papers (I to IV): These papers cover a wide range of subjects, including Indian heritage and culture, history, geography, polity, economics, ethics, and more. Each paper carries 250 marks.

  • Optional Subject Papers (Paper I and II): Candidates can choose one optional subject from a list of subjects provided by the UPSC. Each optional paper carries 250 marks.

3. Personality Test (Interview):

• • Candidates who qualify the Main Examination are called for a Personality Test (Interview). The interview panel assesses the candidate's personality, communication skills, and suitability for a career in civil services. The interview carries 275 marks.

4. Final Ranking:

• • The final ranking of candidates is based on the marks obtained in the Main Examination (written), as well as the marks obtained in the Personality Test (Interview).

5. Selection of Services:

• • Based on the final ranking, candidates are allocated to various civil services like IAS, IPS, IFS, etc., as per their preferences and availability of vacancies.

The UPSC Civil Services Exam is known for its high level of competition and rigorous selection process. It assesses not only a candidate's knowledge but also their analytical and decision-making abilities, as well as their moral and ethical values. Candidates should prepare thoroughly and stay updated with current affairs to excel in this examination.