The UPSC IES/ISS Recruitment is a prestigious examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit candidates for the Indian Economic Service (IES) and Indian Statistical Service (ISS). These services are among the most respected central government careers, offering opportunities to work in policy-making, economic planning, data analysis, and national development programs. Candidates with strong academic backgrounds in Economics or Statistics can apply for this examination and secure a career in top government departments and ministries.
Overview of UPSC IES/ISS Recruitment
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UPSC IES/ISS Examination |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission |
| Posts | Indian Economic Service / Indian Statistical Service |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Stages | Written Exam + Interview |
| Job Location | Across India |
The notification is usually released once a year, and candidates must complete the application process within the specified dates mentioned in the official notice.
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Posts Offered
The recruitment is conducted for two specialized services:
Indian Economic Service
This post focuses on economic research, policy analysis, financial planning, and advisory roles in ministries such as Finance, Agriculture, Commerce, and Planning.
Indian Statistical Service
ISS officers work in statistical data analysis, surveys, research design, and policy evaluation across departments like Health, Education, Labour, and NSSO.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet educational and age requirements before applying.
Educational Qualification
For IES
Candidates must hold a Postgraduate Degree in Economics, Applied Economics, Business Economics, or Econometrics from a recognized university.
For ISS
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree with Statistics, Mathematical Statistics, or Applied Statistics as one of the subjects, or a Master’s Degree in Statistics or related disciplines.
Age Limit
| Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General | 21–30 years |
| OBC | Up to 33 years |
| SC/ST | Up to 35 years |
| PwBD | Up to 40 years |
Age relaxation is provided as per government norms.
Selection Process
The UPSC IES/ISS recruitment process consists of two major stages:
Written Examination
The written test assesses candidates’ knowledge of their respective subjects. Papers are conventional (descriptive) and objective type depending on the subject.
Interview/Personality Test
Candidates who qualify in the written exam are called for an interview conducted by UPSC. The interview evaluates intellectual curiosity, communication ability, subject expertise, and suitability for government service.
Final merit is prepared based on marks obtained in both stages.
Exam Pattern
The exam pattern differs for IES and ISS streams.
IES Exam Pattern
| Paper | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| I | General English | 100 |
| II | General Studies | 100 |
| III | General Economics I | 200 |
| IV | General Economics II | 200 |
| V | General Economics III | 200 |
| VI | Indian Economics | 200 |
ISS Exam Pattern
| Paper | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| I | General English | 100 |
| II | General Studies | 100 |
| III | Statistics I | 200 |
| IV | Statistics II | 200 |
| V | Statistics III | 200 |
| VI | Statistics IV | 200 |
Salary Structure
Selected candidates are appointed as Group A officers under Level 10 pay scale.
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pay Level | Level 10 |
| Basic Pay | ₹56,100 |
| Gross Salary | ₹80,000–₹1,00,000 approx |
| Allowances | DA, HRA, TA |
| Other Benefits | Pension, Medical, Leave |
Salary increases with promotions and years of service.
Job Responsibilities
IES officers are responsible for economic analysis, preparing reports, assisting in budget formation, forecasting economic trends, and advising government bodies.
ISS officers collect and analyze statistical data, conduct national surveys, design research methodologies, and assist ministries in data-based decision making.
Both services play a crucial role in shaping public policies and development programs.
Application Process
Candidates must apply online through the UPSC application portal. The steps generally include:
- Registration using basic personal details
- Filling application form with academic information
- Uploading photograph and signature
- Paying application fee
- Submitting final form and printing confirmation
Applicants should carefully verify all details before submission because correction opportunities are limited.
Preparation Strategy
To succeed in UPSC IES/ISS, candidates should follow a structured study plan:
- Build strong conceptual understanding of core subjects.
- Practice previous years’ question papers regularly.
- Focus on descriptive answer writing.
- Revise formulas, theories, and models consistently.
- Stay updated with economic and statistical developments.
Time management and consistent revision are key factors in clearing this exam.
Why Choose IES or ISS Career
IES and ISS officers enjoy high professional respect, job stability, and the opportunity to contribute directly to national policymaking. These services allow candidates to work closely with senior government officials and influence important economic and statistical decisions. The career path also includes promotions to senior administrative positions, international assignments, and deputations to global organizations.
FAQs
What is the qualification required for UPSC IES
A postgraduate degree in Economics or related field is required.
Is mathematics compulsory for ISS
Yes, Statistics or Mathematics must be studied as a subject.
How many stages are there in selection
There are two stages: written examination and interview.
The UPSC IES/ISS recruitment is an excellent opportunity for candidates passionate about economics, statistics, and public policy. With focused preparation and strong subject knowledge, aspirants can secure a prestigious government career and contribute to national development.