The IFoS 2026 exam pattern follows a three-stage structure. The Prelims pattern is identical to UPSC CSE. The Mains is entirely IFoS-specific with descriptive science papers. Understanding the paper-wise marks breakdown is key to time allocation.
Stage 1: Prelims Pattern (Shared with CSE)
| Paper | Questions | Marks | Duration | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS Paper-I | 100 MCQs | 200 | 2 Hours | Screening (Merit) |
| CSAT Paper-II | 80 MCQs | 200 | 2 Hours | Qualifying (33%) |
Stage 2: IFoS Mains Pattern
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | General English | 300 | 3 Hours | Qualifying (min 25%) |
| Paper 2 | General Knowledge | 300 | 3 Hours | Merit |
| Paper 3 | Optional I – Paper 1 | 200 | 3 Hours | Merit |
| Paper 4 | Optional I – Paper 2 | 200 | 3 Hours | Merit |
| Paper 5 | Optional II – Paper 1 | 200 | 3 Hours | Merit |
| Paper 6 | Optional II – Paper 2 | 200 | 3 Hours | Merit |
| Merit Total | 1100 |
Stage 3: Personality Test
| Component | Marks |
|---|---|
| Personality Test / Interview | 200 |
| Grand Total (Merit Mains + Interview) | 1300 |
Key Pattern Notes
- General English is qualifying only (25% minimum); marks NOT added to merit
- General Knowledge and all 4 optional papers are merit-based
- All Mains papers are descriptive (conventional) type – no MCQs
- Medium: English or Hindi (candidate's choice)