UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Prelims
UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Nationality: Indian citizens or specific categories from Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibetan refugees (pre-1962).
Age Limit: 21 to 32 years (as of August 1, 2025), with age relaxations for OBC, SC/ST, PwBD, and ex-servicemen.
Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university; final-year students can apply.
Number of Attempts:
General/EWS: 6 attempts
OBC/PwBD: 9 attempts
SC/ST: Unlimited attempts within the age limit
UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 Exam Pattern
The Prelims consist of two objective-type papers:
1. General Studies Paper I (GS) – 200 Marks
Covers topics like:
Indian History & National Movement
Geography (India & World)
Indian Polity & Governance
Economic & Social Development
Environmental Ecology & Biodiversity
General Science
Current Affairs
2. Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) – 200 Marks (Qualifying Paper)
Tests logical reasoning, analytical ability, comprehension, numeracy, and decision-making. Candidates must score at least 33% to qualify.
Negative Marking: 1/3rd marks deducted for incorrect answers. No penalty for unanswered questions.
Effective Preparation Strategy for UPSC CSE Prelims 2025
Master the Syllabus – Study previous years’ papers to identify recurring topics.
Start with NCERTs – Build foundational knowledge with NCERT books (Class 6–12).
Stay Updated on Current Affairs – Read newspapers and monthly current affairs magazines.
Take Regular Mock Tests – Simulate exam conditions and identify weak areas.
Revise Consistently – Use notes, mind maps, and flashcards for quick recall.
Don’t Underestimate CSAT – Practice comprehension and numerical questions.
UPSC (CSE) Prelims syllabus
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Prelims syllabus consists of two papers: General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT). Here’s a breakdown:
General Studies Paper-I (200 Marks)
This paper tests a candidate’s knowledge across various subjects:
Current Events – National & International importance.
History of India & Indian National Movement.
Indian & World Geography – Physical, Social, Economic Geography.
Indian Polity & Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues.
Economic & Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives.
General Issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity & Climate Change – No subject specialization required.
General Science.
General Studies Paper-II (CSAT) (200 Marks)
This paper is qualifying in nature (minimum 33% required) and assesses:
Comprehension & Communication Skills.
Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability.
Decision Making & Problem Solving.
General Mental Ability.
Basic Numeracy (Class X level).
Data Interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency – Class X level).
Officially website for details of UPSC : upsc.gov.com