If you’re aspiring to join India’s top administrative ranks through the UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE) 2025, then it’s time to gear up. The Union Public Service Commission has officially released the schedule and key details for the upcoming exam cycle—and we’ve got everything you need to know right here!
UPSC Civil Services Exam 2025 – Important Dates to Remember
- Notification Release Date: January 22, 2025
- Application Window: January 22 to February 11, 2025
- Prelims Exam Date: May 25, 2025 (Sunday)
- Mains Exam Start Date: August 22, 2025 (Friday)
- Interview (Personality Test): To be announced after Mains results
Make sure to mark these dates on your calendar and set your preparation milestones accordingly.
UPSC Civil Services Exam 2025 – Exam Pattern Breakdown
The UPSC CSE is conducted in three stages:
1️⃣ Preliminary Examination
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Objective-type papers:
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General Studies Paper I
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CSAT (General Studies Paper II – qualifying with 33%)
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Acts as a screening test for the Mains.
2️⃣ Main Examination
- Descriptive papers (9 in total):
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2 Language Papers (Qualifying)
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1 Essay Paper
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4 General Studies Papers
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2 Optional Subject Papers (based on your chosen subject)
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3️⃣ Personality Test (Interview)
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Conducted for candidates who qualify the Mains. This is the final stage before the merit list is prepared.
UPSC Civil Services Exam 2025 – Number of Vacancies
The UPSC has announced 979 vacancies for the CSE 2025. These include posts in the prestigious:
Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
Indian Police Service (IPS)
Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
And other Group A and B services
Additionally, 150 vacancies have been reserved for the Indian Forest Service (IFoS) exam.
UPSC Civil Services Exam 2025 – Admit Card Alert
Admit cards for the Prelims are expected to be released in the first week of May 2025. You’ll be able to download yours from the official UPSC portal: upsc.gov.in
Pro Tips for 2025 Aspirants
Start with NCERTs: Build your basics first.
Stick to the syllabus: UPSC rewards depth over breadth.
Solve PYQs: Past year questions are golden!
Join a test series: Practice under exam-like conditions.
Stay updated: Follow current affairs religiously.