UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026
Syllabus | Exam Pattern | Eligibility | Sample Paper
About UPSC
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Civil Services Examination to recruit candidates for prestigious services like IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS and other central services.
Exam Pattern
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | General Studies | 200 | 2 Hours |
| Paper 2 | CSAT | 200 (Qualifying) | 2 Hours |
Note: 1/3rd negative marking. CSAT requires 33% marks to qualify.
Stage 2: Mains Examination
| Paper | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper A | Indian Language | 300 (Qualifying) |
| Paper B | English | 300 (Qualifying) |
| Paper 1 | Essay | 250 |
| Paper 2 | GS 1 | 250 |
| Paper 3 | GS 2 | 250 |
| Paper 4 | GS 3 | 250 |
| Paper 5 | GS 4 | 250 |
| Paper 6 | Optional 1 | 250 |
| Paper 7 | Optional 2 | 250 |
Stage 3: Interview
Personality Test – 275 Marks
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Indian
- Age Limit: 21 to 32 years (Relaxation for reserved categories)
- Educational Qualification: Graduation from a recognized university
- Number of Attempts: General - 6, OBC - 9, SC/ST - Unlimited (Till age limit)
UPSC Syllabus (Brief)
Prelims Syllabus
- History of India
- Indian Polity
- Geography
- Economy
- Environment & Ecology
- Science & Technology
- Current Affairs
CSAT Syllabus
- Comprehension
- Logical Reasoning
- Basic Mathematics (Class 10 Level)
Sample Questions
1. Which Article of the Indian Constitution deals with Emergency Provisions?
A. Article 32
B. Article 356
C. Article 368
D. Article 370
Answer: B. Article 356
2. The Battle of Plassey was fought in which year?
A. 1757
B. 1857
C. 1764
D. 1776
Answer: A. 1757