UPSC Exam – Complete Information
Union Public Service Commission – Civil Services Examination (CSE)
1) What is the UPSC Exam?
The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Exam, officially known as the Civil Services Examination (CSE), is a national-level competitive examination conducted to recruit Group A and Group B officers for the top administrative services of the Government of India.
This examination selects candidates for roles in policy-making, administration, diplomacy, revenue management, and public governance at the national level.
2) Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university (any discipline)
- Final-year students may apply, but must complete the degree before Mains
- Postgraduate degrees (Masters / PhD) are also eligible
- Professional degrees such as Engineering, Medical, Law, CA are valid
- No restriction on stream – Arts, Science, Commerce & professional courses allowed
Age Limit (Category-wise)
| Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General | 21 – 32 Years |
| OBC | Up to 35 Years |
| SC / ST | Up to 37 Years |
| PwBD | Up to 42 Years |
| Defence Services Personnel | As per Government Rules |
Number of Attempts
| Category | Attempts |
|---|---|
| General | 6 |
| OBC | 9 |
| SC / ST | Unlimited (within age limit) |
| PwBD | 9 (Gen/OBC), Unlimited (SC/ST) |
3) Exam Structure & Selection Process
Preliminary Examination
- 2 Objective Papers (MCQs)
- Paper I – General Studies
- Paper II – CSAT (Qualifying – 33%)
Used only for screening purposes
Main Examination
- 9 Descriptive Papers
- 2 Qualifying (Indian Language & English)
- Essay Paper
- 4 General Studies Papers
- 2 Optional Subject Papers
Marks counted for final merit
Interview / Personality Test
Conducted by UPSC Board
- Personality & Integrity
- Leadership & Decision Making
- Administrative & Social Awareness
4) Services Offered
5) Vacancy Overview
The total number of vacancies generally ranges between 900 to 1100 posts every year.
Vacancies include IAS, IPS, IFS, and various Central Group A & B services. Category-wise vacancy distribution follows Government of India reservation norms.
6) Key Focus Areas for Preparation
- Indian Polity & Constitution
- Indian History & Culture
- Geography (India & World)
- Indian Economy & Development
- Environment & Ecology
- Science & Technology
- Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude
- Current Affairs (National & International)