Preliminary Examination

Two objective-type papers held on the same day. Paper I (GS) is used for merit-based shortlisting; Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying only (33% minimum). Marks from Prelims are not counted in the final merit list.

Screening stage only — marks not counted in final merit

General Studies Paper I200 marks · 2 hours

− 1/3 of allotted marks per wrong answer penalty

General Studies Paper II (CSAT)200 marks · 2 hours

− 1/3 of allotted marks per wrong answer penalty

Main Examination

Nine descriptive papers of which seven are counted for the merit list. Two language papers (Paper A and Paper B) are qualifying only. GS Papers I–IV, the Essay Paper, and the Optional subject papers form the 1750-mark written component.

Marks from GS I–IV, Essay, and Optional (1750 total) contribute directly to final merit along with interview marks

Essay Paper250 marks · 3 hours

General Studies Paper I — Indian Heritage, Culture, History, Geography250 marks · 3 hours

General Studies Paper II — Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, IR250 marks · 3 hours

General Studies Paper III — Technology, Economic Development, Security250 marks · 3 hours

General Studies Paper IV — Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude250 marks · 3 hours

Personality Test (Interview)

A 275-mark interview conducted by a board of UPSC members. Tests personality traits, general awareness, problem-solving ability, and leadership potential rather than academic knowledge.

Marks added directly to Mains written score for final merit list

Personality Test275 marks · 25–35 minutes