Number of Papers in UPSC Exam
The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam consists of three stages:
- Preliminary Examination
- Main Examination
- Personality Test (Interview)
Preliminary Examination
The UPSC Preliminary Examination consists of two papers:
- Paper I - General Studies
- Paper II - Civil Service Aptitude Test (CSAT)
Both papers are objective type and each paper carries 200 marks. Paper I covers topics such as current events of national and international importance, history of India and Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography, Indian Polity and Governance, Economic and Social Development, Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity and Climate Change, and General Science. Paper II tests the candidate's analytical and logical reasoning abilities, comprehension, decision-making and problem-solving skills, and basic numeracy skills. The CSAT paper is qualifying in nature and the minimum qualifying marks are 33%.
Main Examination
The UPSC Main Examination consists of nine papers:
- Paper I - Essay
- Paper II - General Studies I (Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society)
- Paper III - General Studies II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International Relations)
- Paper IV - General Studies III (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)
- Paper V - General Studies IV (Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude)
- Paper VI - Optional Subject Paper I
- Paper VII - Optional Subject Paper II
- Paper VIII - Indian Language
- Paper IX - English Language
Papers I to V are compulsory and carry 250 marks each. Papers VI and VII are optional and carry 250 marks each. Candidates have to choose one optional subject from a list of subjects provided by UPSC. Papers VIII and IX are qualifying in nature and the minimum qualifying marks are 25%. Candidates have to choose one Indian language (listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution) and one English language paper. The Indian language paper tests the candidate's ability to read, write and understand the language.
Personality Test (Interview)
The Personality Test (Interview) is the final stage of the UPSC exam. Candidates who clear the Main Examination are called for an interview by a board appointed by UPSC. The interview is conducted to assess the candidate's overall personality, suitability for public service, and ability to communicate effectively.
The interview carries 275 marks and the final merit list is prepared based on the candidate's performance in the Main Examination and the interview.