UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE): A Comprehensive Guide
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most prestigious and challenging exams in India. It is the gateway to esteemed services like the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and many others. Here’s an in-depth look at the exam structure, eligibility, syllabus, and preparation strategies.
What is UPSC CSE?
The UPSC CSE is a national-level examination conducted annually to recruit officers for various All India Services, Central Services, and Group A & B posts. It is widely regarded as one of the toughest exams due to its vast syllabus and rigorous selection process.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality:
For IAS, IPS, and IFS: Must be an Indian citizen.
For other services: A subject of Nepal/Bhutan or a Tibetan refugee settled in India before January 1, 1962, may also apply.
- Age Limit:
Minimum Age: 21 years
Maximum Age: 32 years (General category; relaxations apply for reserved categories).
- Educational Qualification:
A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
Final-year students can apply but must present proof of passing before the main exam.
- Number of Attempts:
General: 6 attempts
OBC: 9 attempts
SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (within age limit).
Exam Pattern
The UPSC CSE is conducted in three stages:
- Preliminary Examination (Prelims):
Format: Objective (MCQs)
Papers:
General Studies Paper I (200 marks)
General Studies Paper II (CSAT, 200 marks, qualifying with 33% marks)
Purpose: Screening test for the Main Examination.
Duration: 2 hours per paper.
- Main Examination (Mains):
Format: Written (Descriptive)
Papers: 9 papers (7 are considered for ranking):
Paper A: Indian Language (qualifying)
Paper B: English (qualifying)
Paper I: Essay
Paper II-V: General Studies (4 papers)
Paper VI-VII: Optional Subject (2 papers)
Total Marks: 1750 (excluding qualifying papers).
- Personality Test (Interview):
Marks: 275
Focus: Assess personality traits like communication skills, leadership, and problem-solving ability.
**Syllabus