Introduction to UPSC Exam in India

Welcome to PreCrack! In India, there is an immense craze for white-collar jobs & one of the most prestigious white color jobs in India is called the Civil Service Examination, sometimes called the UPSC Exam. However, UPSC Exam are more inclusive term cause UPSC is a government created constitutional body which conducts many other exams including Civil Service Exam.

What is UPSC Exam?

The UPSC Exam, or the Union Public Service Commission Exam, is a series of tests held by the Indian government to select candidates for various important jobs. While people often talk about “the UPSC Exam,” there isn’t just one; instead, it refers to a bunch of exams conducted by UPSC. The most famous of these is the Civil Services Examination, which helps pick candidates for top administrative roles.

What is UPSC?

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a constitutional body in India established under Article 315 of the Constitution. It is responsible for conducting various recruitment examinations for central government services and advising the government on matters related to personnel management, including appointments, promotions, and disciplinary actions.

History of UPSC

The history of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) can be traced back to the Royal Commission on the superior Civil Services in India, which was established by the British Government in 1923 under the chairmanship of Lord Lee of Fareham. This commission, comprising an equal number of Indian and British members, recommended the establishment of a Public Service Commission in its report submitted in 1924.

How many exams UPSC Conducts? – List of Exams Conducted by UPSC

There are many exams conducted by UPSC including Civil Service Examinations. We have added a comprehensive list below:

1. Indian Forest Service (Main) Examination
2. CISF AC(EXE) LDCE
3. Civil Services (Main) Examination
4. Combined Defence Services Examination (I)
5. Indian Economic Service – Indian Statistical Service Examination
6. National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (I)
7. SO-Steno (GD-B-GD-I) LDCE
8. Combined Medical Services Examination
9. Combined Geo-Scientist (Main) Examination
10. Engineering Services (Preliminary) Examination
11. National Defence Academy and Naval Academy Examination (II)
12. CISF AC(EXE) LDCE-2022
13. Engineering Services (Main) Examination
14. Central Armed Police Forces (ACs) Examination
15. Combined Defence Services Examination (II)
16. Indian Forest Service Examination
17. Civil Services Examination
18. SO-Steno (GD-B-GD-I) LDCE, 2016-2017
19. Combined SO-Steno (Grade ‘B’-Grade-I) LDCE, 2015

What are UPSC Exams?

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a constitutional body in India responsible for conducting a diverse range of examinations for recruitment to various prestigious positions in both the state and central government. These examinations cover a wide spectrum of fields, including administrative services, engineering, defence, medical, economic, statistical, and more. UPSC plays a crucial role in selecting candidates with exceptional capabilities to serve in key positions across different sectors of governance.

What is Civil Service Exam? – IAS Exam in India

In India, Civil Service Examination is known as the most respected civil white-collar Job. This job not only gets the extreme respect from civilians but also get a huge responsibility to handle the entire administration of a district (in their starting period of Duty). Civil Service Exam is the exam that is conduct by UPSC to hire / Get candidates so government can train them and make them responsible officers who can work in their dedicated field.

Significance of Civil Service Exam

We have added all the key Significances of Civil Service Examination in India:

1. Selection of Administrative Leaders

The CSE serves as the primary method for selecting candidates who will occupy top administrative positions in the country. Successful candidates may become Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), Indian Police Service (IPS) officers, among others. These individuals play crucial roles in shaping policies, implementing government programs, and addressing societal challenges.

2. Merit-Based Selection

The CSE follows a rigorous and merit-based selection process, ensuring that individuals chosen for administrative positions possess the requisite skills, knowledge, and aptitude. This promotes fairness and transparency in recruitment, fostering confidence in the administrative system.

3. Diversity and Representation

The CSE attracts candidates from diverse backgrounds, including various educational, regional, and socio-economic backgrounds. As a result, the civil services become more representative of the nation’s diversity, leading to better governance and decision-making that considers the interests of different sections of society.

4. Stability and Continuity

Civil servants selected through the CSE undergo comprehensive training and are provided with a secure career path. This ensures stability and continuity in the administration, as officers serve across different roles and departments, accumulating valuable experience and expertise over time.

5. Capacity Building

The CSE encourages continuous learning and professional development among civil servants. Through training programs and on-the-job experiences, officers enhance their skills and competencies, enabling them to tackle complex challenges and adapt to evolving needs effectively.

6. Public Service Ethos

The CSE attracts individuals who are committed to public service and have a strong sense of duty towards society. By selecting candidates based on their integrity, ethical conduct, and dedication to serving the public interest, the examination reinforces the values of accountability, transparency, and integrity in governance.

Process of Civil Service Exams

The Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) follows a comprehensive selection process. Here’s a detailed overview of the complete process:

Step-1: Notification

UPSC releases a notification for the Civil Services Examination, usually in February or March every year. In wich, they also outline the exam schedule, eligibility criteria, and other important details.

Step-2: Application

Candidates eligible for the exam must fill out the online application form available on the UPSC website within the specified time frame. They need to provide personal details, educational qualifications, choice of examination center, and other relevant information.

Step-3: Preliminary Examination (Prelims)

• The Preliminary Examination consists of two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT).
• General Studies Paper-I assesses candidates’ knowledge in subjects like history, geography, polity, economy, science & technology, environment, and current affairs.
• General Studies Paper-II (CSAT) evaluates candidates’ aptitude, comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical ability.
• The marks obtained in the Prelims are not counted for final ranking but are crucial for qualification to the Main Examination.
• Candidates who qualify the Prelims are eligible to appear for the Main Examination.

Step-4: Main Examination (Mains)

• The Main Examination consists of nine descriptive papers, out of which seven are compulsory and two are optional.
• Compulsory papers include Essay, General Studies (GS) Papers I to IV, English Language, and an Indian Language Paper.
• Candidates need to choose two optional subjects from the list provided by UPSC, each having two papers.
• The Main Examination assesses candidates’ depth of understanding, analytical abilities, and writing skills.
• Marks obtained in the Main Examination along with the marks obtained in the Interview are considered for final merit ranking.

Step-5: Interview (Personality Test)

• Candidates who qualify the Main Examination are called for the Interview, also known as the Personality Test.
• The Interview panel evaluates candidates’ personality traits, communication skills, leadership qualities, and overall suitability for administrative roles.
• The Interview carries 275 marks and is conducted by a board appointed by UPSC.

Step-6: Final Selection

• The final merit list is prepared based on the marks obtained in the Main Examination and the Interview.
• The marks obtained in the Preliminary Examination are not considered for final ranking but are crucial for qualification to the Main Examination.
• Candidates are allotted to various services and cadres based on their rank in the final merit list, preferences filled by candidates, and the availability of vacancies.

Step-7: Training and Allocation

• Candidates who are selected undergo training at various academies, including the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) for IAS officers, the National Police Academy (NPA) for IPS officers, and others.
• After completion of training, candidates are allocated to different services and cadres as per their preferences and the requirements of the government.

Eligibility Criteria for Civil Services Examination

The eligibility criteria for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) include various aspects such as nationality, age limit, educational qualification, and number of attempts. Here’s a detailed overview of the eligibility criteria:

Nationality

• The candidate must be a citizen of India.
• For certain specific services like the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS), candidates belonging to Nepal, Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India are also eligible.

Age Limit

• The candidate must have attained the age of 21 years as of August 1st of the exam year.
• The upper age limit varies depending on the category:
• General Category: Maximum age limit is 32 years.
• OBC Category: Maximum age limit is 35 years.
• SC/ST Category: Maximum age limit is 37 years.
• Certain other categories may have relaxation in the upper age limit as per government rules.

Educational Qualification

• The candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution.
• Candidates appearing in the final year of their degree course can also apply provisionally, subject to submission of proof of passing the requisite examination along with the application for the Main Examination.

Number of Attempts

• The number of attempts permissible for the Civil Services Examination varies based on the category:
• General Category: 6 attempts are allowed.
• OBC Category: 9 attempts are allowed.
• SC/ST Category: Unlimited attempts are allowed until the upper age limit is reached.
• Physically Handicapped (PH) candidates belonging to General and OBC categories will get the same number of attempts as allowed to them in their respective categories.

Other Requirements

• Candidates must meet the physical standards required for certain services like the Indian Police Service (IPS).
• Candidates must be mentally and physically fit as per the standards set by the government.

UPSC Prelims Exam

The UPSC Preliminary Examination, commonly referred to as the Prelims, is the first stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It serves as a screening test to shortlist candidates for the Main Examination. Here’s a detailed overview of the UPSC Prelims Exam:

Structure

• The Preliminary Examination consists of two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper-I (GS Paper-I) and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT).
• Both papers are conducted on the same day, usually in June.
• Each paper is of 200 marks, making a total of 400 marks for the Preliminary Examination.

General Studies Paper-I (GS Paper-I)

• GS Paper-I tests candidates’ knowledge in various subjects, including history, geography, polity, economy, science & technology, environment, and current affairs.
• The paper comprises 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with four options each.
• The duration of GS Paper-I is two hours (120 minutes).
• Each question carries two marks, and there is a penalty of one-third (0.33) marks for each wrong answer.
• The purpose of GS Paper-I is to evaluate candidates’ awareness of current events, understanding of basic concepts, and analytical ability.

General Studies Paper-II (CSAT)

• CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) is the second paper of the Preliminary Examination.
• CSAT assesses candidates’ aptitude, comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical ability.
• The paper comprises 80 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with four options each.
• The duration of CSAT is two hours (120 minutes).
• Each question carries two and a half (2.5) marks, and there is a penalty of one-third (0.33) marks for each wrong answer.
• However, the marks obtained in CSAT are not counted for qualifying for the Main Examination but are crucial for the final ranking.

Qualifying Nature

• The marks obtained in the Preliminary Examination are not counted for determining the final merit list.
• The Prelims serve as a screening test to shortlist candidates for the Main Examination.
• Candidates need to secure the minimum qualifying marks prescribed by UPSC in GS Paper-I to qualify for the Main Examination.
• The qualifying marks are decided by UPSC and may vary each year depending on factors like the total number of vacancies and the performance of candidates.

Admit Card and Examination Centers

• Candidates who successfully submit their applications can download their admit cards from the UPSC website approximately three weeks before the exam date.
• The Preliminary Examination is conducted across various examination centers spread throughout the country.

Result

• UPSC declares the results of the Preliminary Examination usually within a few weeks after the exam.
• Candidates who qualify the Prelims become eligible to appear for the Main Examination.

UPSC CSE Main Examination (CSE Mains)

The UPSC Main Examination, commonly referred to as the Mains, is the second stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It is an in-depth evaluation of candidates’ knowledge, understanding, and analytical abilities. Here’s a detailed overview of the UPSC Mains Exam:

Structure

• The Main Examination consists of nine descriptive papers, out of which seven are compulsory and two are optional.
• Each paper carries a specific weightage of marks, and the total marks for the Main Examination sum up to 1750 marks.
• The duration of each paper varies from three to four hours.

Compulsory Papers

• Essay Paper: Candidates are required to write two essays, each carrying 125 marks.
• General Studies (GS) Papers I to IV: These papers cover a wide range of subjects, including Indian heritage and culture, history, geography, polity, governance, social issues, ethics, and current affairs. Each paper carries 250 marks.
• English Language Paper: The paper tests candidates’ language skills, including comprehension, précis writing, usage, and grammar. It carries 300 marks.
• Indian Language Paper: Candidates need to choose one Indian language from the languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. These are the 22 languages listed in 8th schedule:
• [Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu.]

On each of these language papers, the paper carries 300 marks and is of qualifying nature.

Optional Papers

• Candidates need to choose two optional subjects from the list provided by UPSC, each having two papers.
• The optional subjects for the UPSC Civil Services Main Examination (Mains) include a wide range of disciplines from various fields of study. Here is a comprehensive list of optional subjects:
  • Agriculture
  • Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science
  • Anthropology
  • Botany
  • Chemistry
  • Civil Engineering
  • Commerce and Accountancy
  • Economics
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Geography
  • Geology
  • History
  • Law
  • Management
  • Mathematics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Medical Science
  • Philosophy
  • Physics
  • Political Science and International Relations
  • Psychology
  • Public Administration
  • Sociology
  • Statistics
  • Zoology

Each optional paper carries 250 marks, making a total of 500 marks for optional subjects.

Answer Writing

• The Mains Examination emphasizes comprehensive and analytical writing.
• Candidates are expected to provide well-structured, logical, and concise answers to the questions.
• Answers should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the subject matter, critical analysis, and effective communication skills.

Qualifying Nature

• The marks obtained in the Compulsory Papers (Essay, GS Papers I to IV, English Language, and Indian Language) are considered for determining candidates’ qualification for the Interview (Personality Test).
• Candidates need to secure the minimum qualifying marks prescribed by UPSC in these papers to proceed to the Interview stage.
• The marks obtained in the Optional Papers are counted for the final merit ranking.

Admit Card and Examination Centers

• Candidates who qualify the Preliminary Examination and are eligible for the Main Examination can download their admit cards from the UPSC website.
• The Main Examination is conducted in various examination centers across the country.

Result

• UPSC declares the results of the Main Examination usually a few months after the exam.
• Candidates who qualify the Main Examination become eligible to appear for the Interview (Personality Test).

Personality Test  / Interview

The Personality Test, commonly known as the Interview, is the final stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It aims to assess the candidates’ suitability for various administrative positions based on their personality traits, communication skills, leadership abilities, and overall demeanor. Here’s a detailed overview of the Personality Test:

Purpose

• The primary objective of the Interview is to evaluate candidates’ personality traits and assess their potential to serve effectively in administrative roles.
• It provides an opportunity for the UPSC panel to interact with candidates in person and gauge their suitability for the civil services.

Format

• The Interview is conducted by a board appointed by UPSC, comprising experienced bureaucrats, academicians, and other experts.
• It is a face-to-face interaction between the candidate and the interview panel.
• The Interview generally lasts for about 30-45 minutes, during which candidates are asked a wide range of questions related to their background, interests, current affairs, and administrative aptitude.

Assessment Parameters

The Interview panel assesses candidates on various parameters, including:

• Communication Skills: Ability to articulate thoughts clearly and express ideas effectively.
• Analytical Ability: Capacity to analyze issues critically and provide logical solutions.
• Leadership Qualities: Demonstrated leadership experience and potential for effective decision-making.
• Emotional Intelligence: Awareness of one’s emotions and the ability to manage interpersonal relationships.
• General Awareness: Knowledge of current affairs, socio-economic issues, and national/international developments.
• Personality Traits: Integrity, confidence, adaptability, and ethical conduct.

The Interview panel evaluates candidates holistically, considering both their academic achievements and personal attributes.

Preparation

• Candidates should prepare thoroughly for the Interview by revising their DAF (Detailed Application Form), which contains information about their educational background, work experience, hobbies, and other relevant details.
• It is essential to stay updated with current affairs, national/international developments, and issues related to governance and public policy.
• Practicing mock interviews and engaging in group discussions can help candidates enhance their communication skills and confidence.

Scoring

• The Interview carries 275 marks, which are added to the marks obtained in the Main Examination to determine the final merit ranking.
• Candidates are scored based on their performance during the Interview, with higher scores indicating better suitability for administrative positions.

Result

• UPSC declares the final result of the Civil Services Examination based on the combined marks obtained in the Main Examination and the Interview.
• Candidates who qualify the Interview stage are eligible for allocation to various services and cadres based on their rank in the final merit list.
• Overall, the Personality Test is a crucial stage in the Civil Services Examination process, providing UPSC with insights into candidates’ personalities and capabilities. It serves as a final assessment of candidates’ readiness to serve in the civil services and plays a significant role in determining their allocation to different administrative positions.

30 Key Facts about UPSC Exam

We have added 30 key facts about UPSC CSE Exam:

1. The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most prestigious and competitive examinations in India.
2. It is conducted annually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit candidates for various civil services posts in the Indian government.
3. The CSE is conducted in three stages: Preliminary Examination (Prelims), Main Examination (Mains), and Personality Test (Interview).
4. The Preliminary Examination consists of two papers: General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT).
5. The Main Examination comprises nine descriptive papers, including essay writing and optional subjects.
6. The Personality Test, also known as the Interview, is the final stage of the examination.
7. The CSE is open to Indian citizens aged between 21 and 32 years, with relaxation in the upper age limit for certain categories.
8. Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university to be eligible for the CSE.
9. The CSE attracts hundreds of thousands of applicants every year, with a low selection rate making it highly competitive.
10. The syllabus of the CSE covers a wide range of topics, including history, geography, polity, economy, science, and current affairs.
11. The Preliminary Examination serves as a screening test to shortlist candidates for the Main Examination.
12. The Main Examination is crucial for determining candidates’ final merit ranking.
13. Candidates need to choose two optional subjects for the Main Examination from a list of available disciplines.
14. The Interview assesses candidates’ personality traits, communication skills, and suitability for administrative roles.
15. The UPSC issues detailed guidelines and instructions for candidates appearing in the CSE.
16. The examination process is conducted with utmost transparency and integrity to ensure fairness and meritocracy.
17. The CSE is regarded as a gateway to prestigious civil services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS).
18. Successful candidates undergo rigorous training at institutions like the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) before joining their respective services.
19. The CSE is conducted in multiple stages to assess candidates’ comprehensive understanding, analytical abilities, and leadership qualities.
20. The examination pattern and syllabus undergo periodic revisions to align with the evolving requirements of the civil services.
21. The UPSC adopts a holistic approach in evaluating candidates’ performance, considering both academic achievements and personality attributes.
22. The CSE offers candidates an opportunity to contribute to nation-building and serve the public through various administrative roles.
23. UPSC aspirants often undergo extensive preparation, including self-study, coaching, and mock tests, to excel in the examination.
24. The CSE is a challenging yet rewarding journey for candidates aspiring to pursue a career in the civil services.
25. The examination process is governed by strict rules and regulations to maintain the credibility and impartiality of the selection process.
26. UPSC aspirants come from diverse educational backgrounds, including engineering, medicine, humanities, and sciences.
27. The CSE requires candidates to exhibit strong analytical and problem-solving skills, along with effective time management.
28. The UPSC conducts the examination across India and examination centers to accommodate candidates from different regions.
29. The CSE serves as a platform for candidates to showcase their intellectual abilities, leadership potential, and commitment to public service.
30. Successful candidates of the CSE play pivotal roles in shaping policies, implementing government programs, and addressing socio-economic challenges in India.

FAQs related to UPSC Exam / Civil Service Exam

Question-1: What is the UPSC Civil Services Examination (Civil Service Exam)?

Answer. The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a competitive examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit candidates for various civil services positions in the Indian government.

Question-2: What are the stages of the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. The UPSC CSE consists of three stages: Preliminary Examination (Prelims), Main Examination (Mains), and Personality Test (Interview).

Question-3: Who is eligible to appear for the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. Indian citizens aged between 21 and 32 years, holding a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, are eligible to appear for the UPSC CSE. Age relaxation is provided for certain categories.

Question-4: How many attempts are allowed for the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. The number of attempts allowed for the UPSC CSE varies based on candidates’ category. Generally, candidates from the General category can attempt the exam six times, while OBC and SC/ST candidates have additional attempts.

Question-5: What is the syllabus for the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. The syllabus for the UPSC CSE covers a wide range of topics, including history, geography, polity, economy, science, current affairs, and optional subjects chosen by candidates.

Question-6: How can I apply for the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. Candidates can apply for the UPSC CSE through the official UPSC website by filling out the online application form and paying the requisite fee.

Question-7: What is the selection process for the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. The selection process for the UPSC CSE involves clearing the Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Personality Test (Interview) stages.

Question-8: What is the duration of the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. The entire process of the UPSC CSE, from Preliminary Examination to Interview, can take approximately one year to complete.

Question-9: How can I prepare for the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. Preparation for the UPSC CSE requires a comprehensive approach, including thorough study of syllabus topics, regular practice, mock tests, and staying updated with current affairs.

Question-10: What are the optional subjects available for the UPSC CSE?

Answer. The UPSC CSE offers a wide range of optional subjects, including but not limited to, history, geography, economics, political science, public administration, and literature.

Question-11: Is coaching necessary for the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. While coaching can be helpful for some candidates, it is not mandatory to clear the UPSC CSE. Many candidates opt for self-study and online resources for preparation.

Question-12: How are candidates selected for the Interview stage of the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. Candidates who clear the Main Examination stage are shortlisted based on their marks obtained. The top candidates are then called for the Interview stage based on their ranking.

Question-13: What is the weightage of the Interview in the final selection?

Answer. The Interview stage carries 275 marks, which are added to the marks obtained in the Main Examination to determine the final merit ranking.

Question-14: What is the significance of the DAF in the UPSC CSE?

Answer. The Detailed Application Form (DAF) is a crucial document that candidates need to fill out with accurate information about their educational background, work experience, and other details. It is used for the Interview stage.

Question-15: Can I choose my Interview date for the UPSC CSE?

Answer. No, candidates cannot choose their Interview date for the UPSC CSE. The Interview schedule is decided by the UPSC, and candidates are informed accordingly.

Question-16: Is there any negative marking in the Preliminary Examination of the UPSC Civil Service Exam?

Answer. Yes, there is a negative marking of one-third (0.33) marks for every incorrect answer in the Preliminary Examination.

Question-17: How are optional subjects selected for the Main Examination?

Answer. Candidates need to choose two optional subjects for the Main Examination from the list provided by the UPSC. The selection is based on candidates’ interest, academic background, and preparation strategy.

Question-18: Can I change my optional subjects after submitting the Main Examination application?

Answer. No, candidates cannot change their optional subjects once they have submitted the Main Examination application. It is essential to choose optional subjects carefully during the application process.

Question-19: What is the role of current affairs in the UPSC CSE?

Answer. Current affairs play a crucial role in the UPSC CSE, especially in the Preliminary and Main Examination stages. Candidates are expected to stay updated with national and international events and their implications.

Question-20: How are candidates allocated services after clearing the UPSC CSE?

Answer. Candidates are allocated services based on their merit ranking in the final selection list and their preferences for services and cadre. The final allocation is done by the UPSC after considering various factors.