The UPSC CSE syllabus is one of the most expansive in Indian competitive examinations. It is divided into Prelims (screening) and Mains (merit). Understanding each paper's scope is essential for an efficient preparation strategy.
Prelims Syllabus
| Paper | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| GS Paper-I (200 marks) | Current Events (National & International), History of India & Indian National Movement, Indian & World Geography (Physical, Social, Economic), Indian Polity & Governance (Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj), Economic & Social Development (Sustainable Development, Poverty, Demographics), Environment & Ecology, General Science |
| CSAT Paper-II (200 marks – Qualifying) | Comprehension, Interpersonal Skills & Communication, Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability, Decision Making & Problem Solving, General Mental Ability, Basic Numeracy (Class X level), Data Interpretation |
Mains Syllabus – All 9 Papers
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper A | Indian Language (One from 8th Schedule) | 300 | Qualifying |
| Paper B | English | 300 | Qualifying |
| Paper I | Essay (2 essays) | 250 | Merit |
| Paper II | GS-I: Indian Heritage & Culture, History, Geography | 250 | Merit |
| Paper III | GS-II: Governance, Polity, Constitution, Social Justice, IR | 250 | Merit |
| Paper IV | GS-III: Technology, Economy, Environment, Security, Disaster Management | 250 | Merit |
| Paper V | GS-IV: Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude | 250 | Merit |
| Paper VI | Optional Subject – Paper 1 | 250 | Merit |
| Paper VII | Optional Subject – Paper 2 | 250 | Merit |
Optional Subjects Available (48 options)
Candidates choose one optional subject from 48 options including Agriculture, Anthropology, Botany, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Commerce & Accountancy, Economics, Electrical Engineering, Geography, Geology, History, Law, Management, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Science, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science & IR, Psychology, Public Administration, Sociology, Statistics, Zoology, and all major Indian Languages as literature.
Personality Test (Interview)
- Conducted by a UPSC Board at UPSC Bhavan, New Delhi
- Total marks: 275
- Tests: Intellectual curiosity, leadership, balanced judgment, awareness of social issues, communication
- No fixed syllabus – based on DAF (Detailed Application Form) entries