Civil Services Exam
The Examination Process
Three stages to success
Understanding the complete examination architecture
Preliminary Examination
Screening Only • 2 Papers • 400 Marks
Main Examination
Written Evaluation • 9 Papers • 1750 Marks
Personality Test
Board Assessment • 275 Marks
Eligibility & Limits
Who can apply
Age limits, attempts, and educational requirements
2Eligibility & Limits
Educational Qualification
Degree from a recognized university. Final Year Students can apply for Prelims but must prove passing before Mains.
Nationality
For IAS/IPS/IFS: Must be a citizen of India. Other services open to subjects of Nepal/Bhutan/Tibetan refugees.
Age Limits & Attempts
AS OF 1 AUGUST 2025 • MIN AGE: 21 YEARS
| Category | Age Limit | Relaxation | Attempts |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / EWS | 32 Years | - | 6 |
| OBC | 35 Years | 3 Years | 9 |
| SC / ST | 37 Years | 5 Years | Unlimited |
| PwBD | 42 Years | 10 Years | 9 |
Core Syllabus Components
What you need to know
General Studies, Optional subjects, and paper structure
3Core Syllabus Components
Application Process
How to apply
Step-by-step guide to registration and submission
4Digital Application: 4 Steps
Account Creation
upscsonline.nic.in registration with OTP.
Universal Reg (UR)
Generate URN. Identity & Matriculation details locked.
Common Form (CAF)
10 Detailed Profiles + Photo/Sign.
Final Submit
Lock CAF, Pay ₹100, Select Centre.
Cut-offs & Competition
Historical trends
Understanding past cutoffs and competition patterns
5Data Intelligence: Cut-off Trends (2015-2024)
| Year | General | EWS | OBC | SC | ST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 87.98 | 85.92 | 87.28 | 79.03 | 74.23 |
| 2023 | 75.41 (Low) | 68.02 | 74.75 | 59.25 | 47.82 |
| 2022 | 88.22 | 82.83 | 87.54 | 74.08 | 69.35 |
| 2021 | 87.54 | 80.14 | 84.85 | 75.41 | 70.71 |
| 2020 | 92.51 | 77.55 | 89.12 | 74.84 | 68.71 |
Align your preparation to this blueprint
Start your journey with a clear understanding of the examination structure.