The Union Public Service Commission has released the notification for the Civil Services Examination with 933 vacancies. This examination is one of the most prestigious competitive exams in India, conducted annually to recruit candidates for top administrative services such as IAS, IPS, IFS, and other central services. The UPSC CSE offers a gateway for graduates to serve the nation in policymaking, governance, law enforcement, diplomacy, and administration. Candidates aspiring to join India’s elite civil services must carefully review the notification details, eligibility conditions, and application process before applying.
Overview of UPSC Civil Services Examination
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Civil Services Examination |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission |
| Vacancies | 933 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Process | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
| Job Location | Across India |
The notification provides detailed information regarding exam dates, syllabus, eligibility, reservation rules, and instructions for applicants.
Posts Offered Through UPSC CSE
Candidates selected through the Civil Services Examination are appointed to various prestigious services, including:
- Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
- Indian Police Service (IPS)
- Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
- Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
- Indian Audit and Accounts Service
- Indian Railway Management Service
- Indian Trade Service and other Group A and B services
The service allocation depends on rank, preference, and category.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must fulfill the required educational qualification and age conditions.
Educational Qualification
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Final-year students can also apply, provided they produce proof of passing before the Mains examination.
Age Limit
| Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General | 21–32 years |
| OBC | Up to 35 years |
| SC/ST | Up to 37 years |
| PwBD | Up to 42 years |
Age relaxation and attempt limits vary according to category rules.
Number of Attempts
| Category | Attempts Allowed |
|---|---|
| General | 6 |
| OBC | 9 |
| SC/ST | Unlimited (within age limit) |
| PwBD | As per category rules |
Attempt count is calculated from the year a candidate appears in the Preliminary Examination.
Selection Process
The UPSC CSE selection procedure consists of three stages.
Preliminary Examination
This is an objective-type screening test with two papers: General Studies and CSAT. Marks obtained in Prelims are not counted for final ranking but are used for shortlisting candidates for Mains.
Main Examination
The Mains exam consists of descriptive papers including essay, general studies subjects, language papers, and optional subject papers. Marks obtained here play a major role in final ranking.
Personality Test
Candidates who qualify Mains are called for an interview. This stage assesses personality traits, decision-making ability, leadership qualities, and awareness of national and international issues.
Final merit is prepared based on marks obtained in Mains and Interview.
Exam Pattern Overview
Preliminary Examination
| Paper | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Studies | 200 |
| Paper II | CSAT | 200 |
Main Examination
| Paper Type | Marks |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Papers | 300 each |
| Essay | 250 |
| GS Papers | 250 each |
| Optional Papers | 250 each |
| Interview | 275 |
Salary Structure
Selected candidates are appointed under Level 10 pay scale initially.
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Basic Pay | ₹56,100 |
| Gross Salary | ₹80,000–₹1,00,000 approx |
| Highest Rank Salary | Above ₹2,50,000 |
| Allowances | DA, HRA, TA |
| Other Benefits | Official residence, staff, security (as per post) |
Higher posts such as Cabinet Secretary receive top-level pay scales after years of service.
Application Process
Candidates can apply online through the UPSC application portal. The steps generally include:
- Register on the UPSC online system.
- Fill personal and educational details.
- Upload photograph and signature.
- Select exam center and service preferences.
- Pay application fee.
- Submit final form and download confirmation.
Applicants must ensure accuracy in details because incorrect information may lead to disqualification.
Preparation Strategy
To succeed in the Civil Services Examination, candidates should follow a systematic preparation plan:
- Build strong fundamentals using standard textbooks.
- Read newspapers daily for current affairs.
- Practice answer writing for Mains.
- Attempt mock tests regularly.
- Revise subjects multiple times.
Consistency, discipline, and conceptual clarity are essential for clearing this highly competitive exam.
Why Choose a Career in Civil Services
Civil services provide an opportunity to directly contribute to national development and governance. Officers work in policy formulation, law enforcement, administration, diplomacy, and public welfare programs. The career offers prestige, authority, job security, and chances to work at national and international levels. With experience, officers can rise to senior administrative positions and influence major government decisions.
FAQs
How many vacancies are announced in UPSC CSE notification
There are 933 vacancies announced.
Can final year students apply for UPSC CSE
Yes, they can apply but must submit proof of graduation before Mains.
Do Prelims marks count in final ranking
No, only Mains and Interview marks determine final merit.
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the most respected competitive exams in India. Candidates who prepare with dedication, proper strategy, and strong conceptual understanding can secure a position among the country’s top administrative officers and build a prestigious career in public service.