UPSC Selection Process
UPSC selection process is an intensive three stage examination structured to recruit candidates for esteemed Civil Services like IAS, IPS, and IFS. It begins with the Preliminary Examination, which is a qualifying test, that screens candidates for the Main Examination, which includes nine descriptive papers. The final stage is the Personality Test which is conducted as an Interview, where candidates are evaluated based on their leadership qualities, judgment, and communication.
Eva Stalin IAS Academy in Chennai facilitates expert support, structured courses, and customized mentoring for aspirants. who are aiming to succeed at every stage. EVA Stalin IAS academy prepares students with the right strategy, study materials, and continuous mock tests to clear the UPSC exams fearlessly.
UPSC Selection Process Overview:
The UPSC selection 2025 process is a highly competitive, multi stage examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit candidates for various prestigious civil services posts.
It involves three main phases:
a) Preliminary exam, which serves as a screening test;
b) Main exam, a detailed written assessment; and
c) final Personality Test or interview.
Each stage is carefully designed to evaluate candidates' understanding, critical thinking, and fitness for administrative responsibilities.
UPSC Selection Process as follows,
| Stage | Name of Stage | Description | Nature of Exam | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Preliminary Exam | Screening test with objective type papers for GS & CSAT. | Qualifying only | GS Paper I: 200 CSAT: 200 |
| Stage 2 | Main Examination | Written exam with 9 papers (Essay, GS I-IV, Optional I & II, and Language papers) | Descriptive | 1750 (7 papers counted) |
| Stage 3 | Personality Test | Interview conducted by UPSC board to assess personality and administrative aptitude. | Face-to-face interview | 275 |
UPSC Selection Process for Prelims:
The UPSC Prelims is the initial stage of the selection process, that consists of two objective type papers: a) General Studies and b) CSAT. It acts as a qualifying exam to shortlist the candidates for the next Mains stage.
| Component | Paper I – General Studies (GS) | Paper II – Civil Services Aptitude Test) |
|---|---|---|
| Type of upsc exam format | Screening test for Mains eligibility (counts toward cut-off) | Qualifying in nature (must score at least 33%) |
| Total Questions | 100 | 80 |
| Total Marks | 200 | 200 |
| Duration | 2 Hours | 2 Hours |
| Negative Marking | Yes – 1/3rd of marks lowered for each wrong answer | Yes – 1/3rd of marks subtracted for each wrong answer |
| Subjects Covered | History, Geography, Current Affairs, Economy, Environment, Polity, Science & Tech | Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Comprehension, Basic Math of Class X level |
| Cut-off Criteria | Varies each year based on vacancies and competition | Must score 33% (i.e. 66 out of 200 marks) to qualify |
| Language of Paper | English & Hindi (except English comprehension in CSAT) | English & Hindi |
UPSC Mains Selection Process 2025:
UPSC Mains 2025 is a written examination including nine descriptive papers that test a candidate’s detailed knowledge, analytical ability, and writing skills. Marks obtained in seven of these papers are counted for merit, making this stage crucial for final selection.
| Paper | Subject | Type | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qualyfing Papers Paper A | Indian Language (as per 8th Schedule) | Descriptive | 300 |
| Paper B | English | Descriptive | 300 |
| Merit Papers - Paper I | Essay | Descriptive | 250 |
| Paper II | General Studies I (History, Geography, etc.) | Descriptive | 250 |
| Paper III | General Studies II (Polity, Governance) | Descriptive | 250 |
| Paper IV | General Studies III (Economy, Tech, Env.) | Descriptive | 250 |
| Paper V | General Studies IV (Ethics & Integrity) | Descriptive | 250 |
| Paper VI | Optional Subject – Paper I | Descriptive | 250 |
| Paper VII | Optional Subject – Paper II | Descriptive | 250 |
UPSC Interview Selection Process 2025:
The UPSC Interview which is also known as the Personality Test, is the final stage of the UPSC selection process, carrying 275 marks. It measures a candidate’s personality qualities, includes communication skills, confidence, judgment, and suitability for a career in civil services.
Only those who clear the Mains exam are called for this stage, and the final merit list is prepared based on Mains + Interview scores which is out of 2025 marks.
Frequently Asked Questions:
UPSC selection process involves three UPSC stages: Preliminary Exam, Main Examination, and Personality Test that is the interview stage. Candidates must be qualified at each stage in order to progress, and the final merit list will be prepared based on marks obtained in the Mains and Interview stages.
To become an IAS officer, you must clear the UPSC Civil Services Examination, that includes Prelims, Mains, and Interview stages. Selection is based on your rank in the final merit list.
General category candidates can have 6 attempts, OBC candidates have 9 times, and SC/ST candidates can have unlimited attempts, subject to the upper age limit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UPSC selection process is curated to identify right individuals with the knowledge, integrity, and leadership qualities necessary to serve the nation. From the Preliminary exam to the final Interview, each upsc stage demands dedication, strategic preparation, and in-depth understanding of the subjects and current affairs.
For aspirants who are aiming to succeed in the UPSC exam, a proper guidance can make all the difference. Eva Stalin IAS Academy prepares the candidates with expert mentorship, structured learning plans, and focused training to confidently handle each stage of the UPSC journey, and achieve their dream of becoming a civil servant.
