UPSC CSE 2025: 979 Posts, Online Apply

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025, inviting applications for various esteemed positions within the Indian government, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS).

This blog post provides an in-depth overview of the examination process, eligibility criteria, important dates, and preparation strategies to assist aspirants in their journey towards a successful career in civil services.

Overview of UPSC CSE 2025

The UPSC CSE is a highly competitive examination conducted annually to recruit candidates for Group A and Group B positions in the Indian government.

No of vacancy in 2025 : 979 posts

The selection process comprises three stages:

1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims): A screening test consisting of two objective-type papers.
2. Main Examination (Mains): A comprehensive assessment featuring nine descriptive papers.
3. Personality Test (Interview): An evaluative interaction to assess the candidate’s suitability for a career in civil services.

Important Dates UPSC CSE 2025

Aspirants must adhere to the following schedule to ensure timely completion of application and preparation milestones:

Event	Date
Release of Notification	January 22, 2025
Start of Application Process	January 22, 2025
Last Date to Apply	February 11, 2025
Preliminary Examination	May 25, 2025
Main Examination	August 22, 2025

Source: UPSC Official Notification

Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CSE 2025

Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of India for IAS, IPS, and IFS services.
• Age Limit: Between 21 and 32 years as of August 1, 2025. Age relaxations apply for reserved categories.
• Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
• Number of Attempts: General category candidates are allowed six attempts; relaxations are provided for other categories.

Source: UPSC CSE 2025 Notification

Application Process for UPSC CSE 2025

The application process is conducted online through the UPSC official website. Candidates are required to complete a One-Time Registration (OTR) before filling out the application form. The steps include:

1. OTR Registration: Provide personal details to generate a unique OTR ID.
2. Application Form: Log in using the OTR ID, fill in educational qualifications, select preferred exam centers, and choose an optional subject.
3. Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, and identification proof.
4. Fee Payment: Pay the application fee through available online modes.
5. Submission: Review and submit the application before the deadline.

Apply Link: UPSC Online Application

Examination Pattern

Understanding the examination pattern is crucial for effective preparation.

Preliminary Examination UPSC CSE 2025

• Paper I: General Studies (200 marks) – Tests knowledge in areas like history, polity, geography, economy, environment, and current affairs.
• Paper II: Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) (200 marks) – Assesses comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical ability.

Note: Paper II is qualifying in nature; candidates must score a minimum of 33%.

Main Examination UPSC CSE 2025

• Qualifying Papers:
  • Paper A: Indian Language (300 marks)
  • Paper B: English (300 marks)
• Papers Counted for Merit:
  • Essay (250 marks)
  • General Studies I-IV (250 marks each)
  • Optional Subject Papers I & II (250 marks each)

Personality Test

• Interview: Carries 275 marks and evaluates the candidate’s personality traits, communication skills, and suitability for a career in civil services.

Syllabus Overview

A thorough understanding of the syllabus is essential for targeted preparation.

Preliminary Examination Syllabus

• General Studies Paper I:
  • Current events of national and international importance.
  • History of India and the Indian National Movement.
  • Indian and World Geography.
  • Indian Polity and Governance.
  • Economic and Social Development.
  • Environmental Ecology and Biodiversity.
  • General Science.
• General Studies Paper II (CSAT):
  • Comprehension.
  • Interpersonal skills.
  • Logical reasoning and analytical ability.
  • Decision-making and problem-solving.
  • General mental ability.
  • Basic numeracy and data interpretation.

Main Examination Syllabus

• Essay: Writing essays on multiple topics.
• General Studies Papers I-IV:
  • Paper I: Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography.
  • Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations.
  • Paper III: Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management.
  • Paper IV: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude.
• Optional Subject Papers I & II: In-depth knowledge of the chosen subject.

Preparation Strategies

Success in the UPSC CSE requires a well-structured preparation plan:

• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus and exam pattern.
• Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers and reputable journals to stay updated.
• Standard Reference Books: Use recommended books for each subject.
• Practice Writing: Develop answer-writing skills for the Mains examination.
• Mock Tests: Participate in mock tests to assess your preparation and improve time management.
• Optional Subject Mastery: Choose an optional subject that aligns with your interests and strengths, and study it thoroughly.

Related: India Post Recruitment 2025 – Notification, Vacancies, Posts, Eligibility, Salary

Recommended Study Plan

A disciplined study plan enhances efficiency:

• Daily Schedule: Allocate specific time slots for each subject and adhere to them consistently.
• Revision: Regularly revise topics to reinforce learning.
• Self-Assessment: Periodically evaluate your progress and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Conclusion

The UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025 is a gateway to a prestigious career in public service. With diligent preparation, a clear understanding of the examination process, and a strategic approach, aspirants can achieve success. Stay informed, stay focused, and approach the examination with confidence.

UPSC Official Website: https://upsc.gov.in/