UPSC Civil Services Civil Services

About UPSC CSE

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is the most competitive exam in India for recruitment to the IAS, IPS, IFS and other premier central government services. It is conducted in three stages over almost a year.

Full Form

Union Public Service Commission — Civil Services Examination

Conducting Body

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

Level

National

Frequency

Once a year

Mode

Offline (Pen & Paper) + Interview

Application Fee

₹100 for Prelims (General); free for SC/ST/PwD/Women

UPSC CSE Eligibility

Bachelor's degree in any discipline. Age 21–32 years for General (relaxation for reserved categories). Limited number of attempts.

UPSC CSE Important Dates

Dates are indicative — always confirm on the official website.

UPSC CSE Exam Pattern

• Three stages:
• Prelims — 2 objective papers (GS Paper I + CSAT), screening only
• Mains — 9 descriptive papers (essay, GS I–IV, optional I–II, 2 language papers)
• Interview / Personality Test — 275 marks

UPSC CSE Syllabus

• Prelims — current affairs, history, geography, polity, economy, environment, science, CSAT aptitude
• Mains — Indian heritage & culture, governance, international relations, technology, ethics, one optional subject
• Essay and language papers

How to Apply for UPSC CSE

1. Register on the UPSC online application portal during the notification window
2. Fill the Detailed Application Form (DAF) after clearing Prelims
3. Choose your optional subject and exam centres
4. Carry the e-admit card and photo ID to each stage

UPSC CSE Preparation Tips

• Build a strong NCERT foundation (Class 6–12) across subjects
• Read one national newspaper daily and make monthly current-affairs notes
• Practise answer writing for Mains from day one
• Revise a limited set of sources multiple times
• Take a mock interview before the Personality Test

Who Accepts UPSC CSE

• Recruitment to IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS and other Group A and Group B central services