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UPSC Question Papers 2025- Download IAS Prelims Exam Question Paper PDFs

UPSC Question Papers 2025- Download IAS Prelims Exam Question Paper PDFs

Edited By Vishnukumar V | Updated on Aug 06, 2024 03:34 PM IST | #UPSC CSE
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Union Public Service commission will release the official UPSC IAS 2025 question paper for prelims on their website after the conclusion of the exams. Candidates will be able to download the IAS prelims 2025 question paper for prelims at upsc.gov.in. The IAS question paper can be downloaded in PDF format. To improve their preparation for the IAS exam, candidates can refer to previous years' IAS question papers with answers. They can download the previous years IAS question papers in this article in the form of PDF.

By solving UPSC CSE question papers and sample papers, aspirants can give an extra boost to their preparation. They can also get direct links to download last 10 years UPSC question papers with answers pdf here. To know more about the UPSC IAS prelims question paper, read the article below.

UPSC IAS Question Paper 2025 - Paper 1

Subject
Unofficial Quetion Paper with Answer Key
Official Question Paper
Paper 1 - General Studies
Download link
Paper 2

SET B

SET C

SET D

Download link

UPSC IAS Previous Year Question Papers

Applicants appearing for the UPSC IAS 2025 exam can download the previous year question papers here for prelims exam. Check the tables below for direct links to previous years' IAS exam question papers.

UPSC IAS Prelims Question Paper - Past year's

What are the 9 papers in the IAS exam?

The nine papers in the IAS mains exam are Compulsory Indian language, English, Essay, General Studies 1, 2, 3 & 4, Optional 1 & 2. Each IAS paper is for 250 marks. The total mark for the IAS Mains exam is 1750 marks.

Solved IAS Previous Question Papers

Candidates who are preparing for the UPSC Civil Services exam can make use the previous year's solved IAS question papers PDF from the table below.

IAS Previous Question Papers with Solution

UPSC IAS Question Paper - Benefits of Solving Previous Year UPSC Question Papers

There are many other advantages of solving UPSC Prelims Question Papers as these papers are prepared directly by the Commission. Some of the advantages of solving the UPSC IAS question paper are mentioned below

  • UPSC previous year question paper helps applicants to get an idea of the UPSC exam pattern, types of questions asked, marking criteria and difficulty level of the questions asked in the exam.

  • Candidates can evaluate their progress and preparation level for the IAS 2025 exam by solving the previous year question papers and sample papers.

  • The concentration and accuracy level of candidates is increased by solving IAS questions and sample papers.

  • Previous year's IAS question papers also help aspirants to learn about time management during the UPSC IAS exam.

  • To predict possible areas where questions can be asked

  • It helps to know about which topics are frequently asked.

  • It also helps us in time management while solving UPSC's previous year question papers.

UPSC CSE Preparation Strategy and Best Books
UPSC CSE preparation strategy along with best books for prelims as well as mains exam for sure success.
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List of Other Government Exams

How to Download the Official IAS Question Papers?

Follow the below-mentioned steps to download the IAS 2025 question papers.

Step 1: Visit the official website - upsc.gov.in.

Step 2: Click on the “Examinations” tab on the homepage.

Step 3: Select “Previous Year Question Papers” from the dropdown menu.

Step 4: Search UPSC previous year question papers.

Step 5: Click on the UPSC prelims 2025 or mains question paper PDF.

Step 6: Download UPSC previous year's question papers PDF for future reference.

IAS Model Question Paper - Subject Wise Download Links

Subject
Download links
Ecology and Environment

Download here

Current Affairs

Click here

Polity

Download here

History

Click here

Economics

Download here

Geography

Click here

General Science

Download here

UPSC IAS Syllabus 2025

The Union Public Service Commission mentioned the UPSC syllabus for both prelims and mains exam in the official notification. The topics for all the subjects like history, geography, economy, current affairs, optional subjects and more, is prescribed in the UPSC IAS 2025 syllabus. For more detailed information on the UPSC IAS 2025 syllabus applicants check the official notification.

Quick links:

Best Books for UPSC IAS 2025

Applicants preparing for the exam must refer to the UPSC IAS 2025 best books for exam preparation. Check the table below to learn about the most preferred and the best books for the UPSC prelims 2025 and mains exam preparation.

Best books for UPSC IAS exam

Sr. No.

Books

1

India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra

Modern India – Spectrum

2

NCERT 6th to 12th (Geography/ History/ Economics/ Environment, etc.)

3

Indian Polity – M Laxmikanth

4

Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh

Economic Development & Policies in India – Jain & Ohri

5

Current Affairs

6

Tata McGraw Hill CSAT Manual

CSAT – Arihant

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many stages are there in the UPSC IAS selection process?

UPSC IAS 2025 selection process has three stages. They are Prelims, Mains and Interview.

2. Is the UPSC IAS exam conducted online or offline?

UPSC IAS prelims and mains exam is conducted in offline mode.

3. Does UPSC release the UPSC IAS question paper?

Yes, UPSC releases the UPSC IAS question paper after the conclusion of the exam.

4. When is the UPSC IAS 2025 prelims exam to be conducted?

The UPSC prelims 2025 will be held on May 25, 2025.

5. What is the upper age limit to apply for the UPSC IAS exam?

The upper age limit to apply for the UPSC IAS exam is 32 years for General category applicants.

6. Which book is best to prepare Indian Polity from?

M Laxmikanth - Indian Polity is the best book to prepare Indian polity for prelims and mains.

7. Which newspapers should one refer to for the UPSC IAS exam?

The Hindu and Indian Express are both good newspapers, candidates can refer to either one of them.

8. When is the UPSC IAS 2025 mains exam scheduled to be conducted?

The UPSC IAS 2025 mains exam will be conducted from August 22, 2025.

9. What is the last date to apply for the UPSC IAS 2025 exam?

The last date to apply for UPSC IAS 2025 exam was on February 11, 2025.

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Questions related to UPSC CSE

Have a question related to UPSC CSE ?

Steps to become an IAS officer


Graduation


You should have a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a known university

Arts: History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, Sociology

Science: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology

Commerce: Economics, Accountancy, Business Studies

Preparation for UPSC Civil Services Examination:


Study the Syllabus: Learn the syllabus for Preliminary and Main exams.

Choose Elective Subjects: Take elective subjects that you enjoy and have expertise in

Study Material: Reference textbooks, handouts distributed during the coaching and internet resources.

Practice: Previous years' question paper, mock tests, etc

Coaching Institutes: Join a good coaching institute for formal guidance 3. UPSC Civil Services Examination:

Prelims Exam: An objective-type qualifying test that will make you eligible to appear in the Main examination.

Main Exam: Very subjective test which includes all subjects.

Interview: Personality test by a panel of experts.

Important Tips:


Start Early: Better preparation starts early.

Time Management: Manage your time very efficiently.

Consistency: Follow a regular study routine.

Stay Updated: Current affairs and news.

Seek Guidance: Who have an experience can be consulted upon for guidance.

Practice Regularly: Solve the previous year's paper and mock tests.

Stay Positive: Believe in yourself and work hard.

Hence, with these steps and dedication and perseverance, you're sure to achieve your end as an IAS officer.

Hello,

Yes, while IAS (Indian Administrative Services) preparation requires a graduation degree, here are steps you can take to start your IAS journey after completing your 11th standard (BiPC):

  1. Focus on Graduation : Choose a stream for your higher studies that aligns with your interest. Graduation is a mandatory qualification for IAS eligibility.
  2. Early Preparation : Start building a strong foundation in subjects like History, Geography, Economics, and Political Science, which are part of the IAS syllabus.
  3. Develop General Knowledge : Read newspapers daily and follow current affairs magazines to stay updated with national and international news.
  4. Improve Language Skills : Enhance your proficiency in English and one Indian language as per the Civil Services syllabus.
  5. Join Study Circles or Coaching : Enroll in pre-IAS foundation courses available for school students for a head start.
  6. Time Management : Create a balanced study schedule alongside your schoolwork to gradually prepare for the IAS exam.
  7. Participate in Competitions : Engage in essay writing and debates to boost your analytical skills and confidence.

To get more help, you can visit : https://www.careers360.com/careers/ias-officer

Hope it helps 1

Hello there,

Becoming both an IAS officer and a doctor is achievable but requires dedication and clear planning, as each career has distinct educational and examination paths. Here’s a roadmap to help you achieve both:

1. Complete Your MBBS to Become a Doctor

  • Enroll in an MBBS Program : First, you need to qualify for NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and get admission to a medical college.

  • Complete Your Medical Degree : The MBBS program typically takes 5.5 years, including an internship.

  • Gain Experience (Optional) : You may choose to practice medicine for a few years to gain clinical experience, but it’s not mandatory if your goal is to pursue IAS right after MBBS.

    2. Prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)

  • Understand the UPSC Exam Structure : The UPSC CSE has three stages—Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, and Interview. You can start preparing while in medical school or after completing MBBS.

  • Choose Your Optional Subject : As a doctor, you may consider taking medical science as your optional subject, though it’s not mandatory.

  • Develop a Study Plan : Balance your medical studies or job with UPSC preparation. Many doctors manage both by allocating dedicated study time each day.

  • Appear for the Exam : With a systematic approach, crack the UPSC exam and qualify for the IAS position.

    3. Career Path as a Doctor-IAS

  • IAS Training and Posting : After clearing UPSC, complete your training and take up your role as an IAS officer. You’ll have a broad scope to influence healthcare, public policy, and social development.

  • Consider Government Health Roles : In administrative roles, you could use your medical background to work in health-related departments, where your knowledge of medicine would be a unique asset.

    Additional Pathways

  • Alternative Approach : You could also join as a doctor in a government hospital and then transition to administration by appearing for the UPSC exam when ready.

  • Health Policy and Administration : Use your medical background in policy formulation or in roles within the Ministry of Health, combining both careers for impactful healthcare reforms.

This dual career path is ambitious but can be very rewarding, allowing you to serve in both the medical and administrative fields.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello aspirant, The answer to this question is no. Both of these areas require your complete commitment and dedication. You can not manage both of these together. Also it is not allowed to do any other profession while performing duties as a IAS officer. If you want to practice medical profession then you have to leave your job.

Thank you

Hope it helps you.

Hello,

When choosing an IAS coaching institute, it's important to consider factors such as faculty quality, study materials, success rate, infrastructure, fees, and student support. Here are some highly regarded IAS coaching institutes in India:

1. Vajiram & Ravi

  • Location: Delhi
  • Pros: Experienced faculty, comprehensive study materials, high success rate.
  • Cons: Relatively expensive.

2. ALS IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with branches in various cities.
  • Pros: Good faculty, structured programs, and regular tests.
  • Cons: Can be costly, and the quality may vary across branches.

3. Vision IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with branches in other cities.
  • Pros: Detailed study materials, current affairs updates, regular mock tests.
  • Cons: Some students find the pace fast.

4. Sriram IAS

  • Location: Delhi
  • Pros: Strong emphasis on comprehensive understanding, quality teaching.
  • Cons: Limited branches compared to others.

5. Drishti IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with a few branches in other cities.
  • Pros: Affordable fees, good study material, and supportive faculty.
  • Cons: Infrastructure might be less impressive.

6. Upkar Institute

  • Location: Multiple cities.
  • Pros: Focus on affordable coaching, quality materials.
  • Cons: Less known compared to the top-tier institutes.

7. The Hindu Zone

  • Location: Online coaching.
  • Pros: Flexibility of online classes, good faculty, and resources.
  • Cons: Online learning might not suit everyone.

Hope it helps !

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