Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) Syllabus
1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims):
The Prelims serve as a screening test and consist of two objective-type papers:
- Paper I: General Studies (200 marks)
- Current events of national and international importance.
- History of India and Indian National Movement.
- Indian and World Geography - Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World.
- Indian Polity and Governance - Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy,
Rights Issues, etc.
- Economic and Social Development - Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion,
Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc.
- General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change.
- General Science.
- Paper II: Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) (200 marks)
- Comprehension.
- Interpersonal skills including communication skills.
- Logical reasoning and analytical ability.
- Decision-making and problem-solving.
- General mental ability.
- Basic numeracy (Class X level).
- Data interpretation (Class X level).
*Note: Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying in nature; candidates must score at least 33%.*
2. Main Examination (Mains):
The Mains examination assesses candidates' in-depth understanding through nine papers:
- Paper A: Compulsory Indian Language (300 marks) (Qualifying)
- Paper B: English (300 marks) (Qualifying)
- Paper I: Essay (250 marks)
- Papers II-V: General Studies (250 marks each)
- General Studies I: Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society.
- General Studies II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations.
- General Studies III: Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security,
and Disaster Management.
- General Studies IV: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude.
- Papers VI-VII: Optional Subject (250 marks each)
*Note: Candidates choose one optional subject from a list provided by UPSC.*
3. Personality Test (Interview):
Candidates who clear the Mains are invited for the Personality Test, which carries 275 marks. This
stage evaluates:
- Mental alertness.
- Critical powers of assimilation.
- Clear and logical exposition.
- Balance of judgment.
- Variety and depth of interest.
- Ability for social cohesion and leadership.
- Intellectual and moral integrity.
The final merit list is based on marks from the Mains and the Interview.
For detailed syllabi, refer to the official UPSC website: [Link]
