UPSC Civil Services Examination Syllabus
Related exam lifecycle →
Exam pattern
Preliminary — General Studies Paper-I
This is the paper on which the cut-off for the Main Examination is set.
Preliminary — General Studies Paper-II (CSAT)
Qualifying only. A minimum of 33% is required; the marks do not count towards the Preliminary cut-off.
Main Examination — written
Nine papers. Paper-A (an Indian language) and Paper-B (English) are 300 marks each, of Matriculation standard, qualifying only, and are not counted for ranking. The seven counted papers are 250 marks each.
Personality Test
Grand total 2025 marks.
Topic-wise syllabus
Prelims Paper-I · General Studies
- Current events of national and international importance
- History of India and the Indian National Movement
- Indian and World Geography — physical, social and economic geography of India and the world
- Indian Polity and Governance — Constitution, political system, Panchayati Raj, public policy, rights issues
- Economic and Social Development — sustainable development, poverty, inclusion, demographics, social sector initiatives
- General issues on environmental ecology, biodiversity and climate change, not requiring subject specialisation
- General Science
Prelims Paper-II · CSAT (qualifying, 33%)
- Comprehension
- Interpersonal skills including communication skills
- Logical reasoning and analytical ability
- Decision making and problem solving
- General mental ability
- Basic numeracy and data interpretation
Mains Paper-A · Indian Language (qualifying)
One language from the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution, of Matriculation or equivalent standard. Not counted for ranking.
Mains Paper-B · English (qualifying)
Matriculation or equivalent standard. Not counted for ranking.
Mains Paper-I · Essay
Mains Paper-II · General Studies-I
Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society.
Mains Paper-III · General Studies-II
Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International Relations.
Mains Paper-IV · General Studies-III
Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.
Mains Paper-V · General Studies-IV
Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude.
Mains Paper-VI · Optional Subject, Paper 1
One optional subject chosen from the list in the notice.