The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the much-awaited notification for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025. This exam is one of the most prestigious and challenging exams in India, opening doors to multiple positions in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and more.
Get detailed information on the UPSC CSE Notification 2025, including eligibility criteria, important dates, application process, exam pattern, syllabus, and more. Start your IAS journey today!
Important Dates for UPSC CSE 2025
- Release of Notification: 22 January 2025 Download Calendar
- Start of Online Application: From 22 January 2025 Apply Now
- Last Date to Apply: From 11 February 2025
- Prelims Examination Date: on 5 May(Sunday) 2025
- Mains Examination Date: From 22 August 2025 (Five days)
- Final Result Announcement: Expected by April/May 2026
UPSC Prelims and Mains Notification Details
Prelims Examination:
- The Prelims is the first stage of the UPSC CSE and serves as a screening test.
- It comprises two objective-type papers:
- Both papers are conducted on the same day and are of 200 marks each.
- Only candidates qualifying the Prelims will proceed to the Mains Examination.
Here, Download Complete E-books for Prelims GS Paper I are available for Download and we arranged every Standard Book for UPSC Preparation in PDF Format
Mains Examination:
- The Mains is the second stage, consisting of 9 papers, including an essay, general studies, and optional subject papers.
- Papers are descriptive in nature and are conducted over multiple days.
- Candidates qualifying the Mains will be called for the Personality Test (Interview).
How to Apply for UPSC CSE 2025: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to apply for the UPSC CSE 2025:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
- Go to the official UPSC website: www.upsc.gov.in.
Step 2: Navigate to the Application Form
- Click on the “Apply Online” link available on the homepage.
- Select the link for “Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2025.
Step 3: Complete Part I Registration
- Fill in your basic details such as name, date of birth, email ID, and phone number.
- Verify the details and submit the form.
Step 4: Complete Part II Registration
- Log in using the credentials received during Part I registration.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and valid photo ID (as per specifications).
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
- Pay the fee online via debit card, credit card, net banking, or offline through challan.
- Fee details:
- General/OBC: INR 100
- SC/ST/PwD/Female: Exempted
Step 6: Submit the Form
- Recheck all the details and click “Final Submit”.
- Download and save a copy of your application form for future reference.
Conclusion
The UPSC CSE 2025 is your gateway to joining India’s premier civil services. With a clear understanding of the notification, application process, and examination structure, you can streamline your preparation journey. Ensure you meet the deadlines, follow the application steps carefully, and Start UPSC Preparation from Zero Level.
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Some of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by UPSC Aspirants
1.What is the exam pattern for UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)?
The UPSC CSE is conducted in three stages:
Preliminary Exam (Prelims) – Objective-type paper consisting of General Studies (GS-I) and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT).
Mains Exam – A written examination with nine papers, including Essay, General Studies, and Optional Subject.
Personality Test (Interview) – A face-to-face interaction to assess a candidate’s personality, decision-making skills, and suitability for administrative roles.
2.What is the age limit for UPSC CSE?
The age limit varies according to category:
General: 21 to 32 years
OBC: 21 to 35 years
SC/ST: 21 to 37 years
PwBD (General): 21 to 42 years
Age is calculated as of August 1 of the exam year.
3.How many attempts are allowed for UPSC CSE?
General Category: 6 attempts
OBC: 9 attempts
SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (till upper age limit)
PwBD (General/OBC): 9 attempts
PwBD (SC/ST): Unlimited attempts
4.What are optional subjects in UPSC Mains?
Candidates must choose one optional subject from a list provided by UPSC. It consists of two papers, each carrying 250 marks. Some popular choices include:
Political Science & International Relations (PSIR)
Sociology
Public Administration
Anthropology
Geography
History
5. Which optional subjects are most preferred by toppers?
While success depends on individual interest and preparation, some of the most chosen optional subjects by toppers include:
PSIR (Political Science & International Relations)
Sociology
Anthropology
Public Administration
Geography
These subjects have relatively shorter syllabi, conceptual clarity, and overlap with General Studies.
6.Can I change my optional subject after selecting it?
Yes, you can change your optional subject in subsequent attempts as long as you indicate it while filling out the UPSC Mains form.
7.What is the minimum educational qualification required for UPSC CSE?
A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is required. Final-year students can also apply, provided they submit proof of passing before the Mains exam.
8.Is there any restriction on the number of times a candidate can appear for the Prelims exam?
Yes, the number of attempts is counted even if you appear only for Prelims and do not clear it. However, missing the exam without filling out the application does not count as an attempt.
9.Can a working professional prepare for UPSC?
Yes! Many aspirants crack UPSC while working. Time management, a structured study plan, and consistency are key. Weekend preparation, online resources, and focused study hours help working professionals succeed.
10.What are the best books for UPSC preparation?
Some essential books include:
NCERTs (Class 6–12) for basic concepts
Polity – M. Laxmikanth
History – Spectrum (Modern), RS Sharma (Ancient), Satish Chandra (Medieval)
Geography – GC Leong, NCERTs
Economy – Ramesh Singh, Economic Survey
Environment – Shankar IAS
Current Affairs – The Hindu, PIB, Yojana Magazine
11.How much time is required to prepare for UPSC CSE?
Typically, 10-12 months of dedicated preparation is recommended. However, the time needed varies based on prior knowledge and study consistency.
12.Is coaching necessary for UPSC preparation?
Coaching is not mandatory. Many toppers crack UPSC through self-study using online resources and standard books. However, coaching can help with structured guidance and mentorship.
13.Can I prepare for UPSC using only online resources?
Yes! Many candidates rely on online resources like:
Vision IAS/ForumIAS/Insights IAS for notes & test series
YouTube channels for conceptual clarity
PIB, The Hindu, and RSTV for current affairs
Government websites (PRS, NITI Aayog)
14.What is the role of current affairs in UPSC preparation?
Current affairs are crucial for all three stages of UPSC. Candidates must follow newspapers, government reports, and monthly magazines to stay updated on relevant topics.
15.How to stay motivated during UPSC preparation?
Set realistic goals and break your study plan into small tasks.
Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
Stay consistent and revise frequently.
Join a study group or discussion forum.
Remind yourself of why you started.
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