UPSC CSE Statistics 2024 - How Many IAS Officers are Selected Every Year

UPSC CSE Statistics 2024 - How Many IAS Officers are Selected Every Year

Edited By Sneha Vinod | Updated on Apr 29, 2024 09:23 AM IST | #UPSC CSE

UPSC IAS Statistics 2024 - UPSC CSE 2024 Statistics reveal that every year, approximately 1 million aspirants take their shot at the UPSC exam and only 0.2% candidates pass the exam. Even though the total number of vacancies is just around 1000 for all 24 services combined, UPSC CSE Statistics notes that the number of candidates who appear for the exam are ever increasing.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts Civil Services Exam (CSE) every year to recruit candidates for different posts in the Indian government including the prestigious posts of Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS) and Indian Foreign Service (IFS).

UPSC CSE Statistics 2024

An analysis of the previous year UPSC CSE statistics reveals a shift in trends after 2009 regarding the total number of applicants and success rates. The results are tabulated below to help predict the UPSC CSE Statistics 2024.

UPSC CSE Exam Statistics and shift in trends

Years

UPSC CSE Statistics

UPSC CSE 2006 to 2009

Total UPSC vacancies - 3157 (993 per year)

Total applicants: 14.52 lakh students (on an average 3.63 lakhs per year)

Qualifying students in UPSC Mains - 40,413 (on an average 10,103 per year)

Only 7858 students qualified for interviews (on an average of 2435 per year)

UPSC CSE 2020 to 2023

Total vacancies: 3823

No of applicants for Prelims: Around 46.03 lakhs.

Qualifying students in Mains - 48,214 students.

Students who qualified for UPSC CSE interviews - 10,000 students.

Number of students who qualified for an interview - 1204

Also read:

UPSC CSE Exam Statistics 2007 to 2023

The table below analyses the previous years UPSC CSE Statistics to get clarity on the number of candidates who applied for the exam, cleared prelims, cracked mains, attended the interviews and made the final cut. Analysing the previous year UPSC CSE Statistics also aids in predicting cut offs and getting an approximate on safe scores.

UPSC Civil Services Exam Statistics - 2007 to 2023

Year

Total No. of candidates who applied for the CSE exam

Total No. of candidates who appeared in the CSE prelims

Total No. of candidates who qualified for CSE mains

Total No. of candidates who appeared in the IAS mains exam

Total No. of candidates who appeared for the CSE interview

Total no. of candidates who got selected finally for the posts

2023

Around 13 Lakh

Around 6 Lakh

14624

-

2916

1016

2022

11,35,697

5,73,735

13090

-

2526

933

2021

1112318

513192

9214

-

1823

761

2020

1056835

486952

10564

-

2049

833

2019

1154769

574980

11845

-

2034

829

2018

1065552

500484

10419

10246

1994

759

2017

969065

46284

13300

13060

2564

1056

2016

1128262

459659

15382

15149

2961

1099

2015

945908

465882

15008

15,008

2797

1078

2014

947428

446623

16706

16286

3308

1236

2013

776604

324279

14800

14178

3001

1122

2012

550080

271442

12795

12190

2674

998

2011

499120

243236

11837

11237

2415

999

2010

547698

269036

12271

11865

2589

965

2009

409110

193091

11894

11516

2431

989

2008

325433

167035

11669

11330

2136

881

2007

333680

161469

9158

8886

1883

734

UPSC CSE Trend Analysis 2021 to 2023

1714192805386

Also read:

UPSC CSE Exam Analysis

The UPSC CSE statistics given above makes it evident that the success rate of this competitive exam is less than 1% making the candidates feel like they don’t have a chance at cracking this exam. However this data can also be interpreted on a positive note.

Even though UPSC CSE Statistics reveal that every year a lot of candidates apply for the exam, only around 50% of candidates show up. The example of the year 2025 is a case in point with approximately 9,45,908 applicants for UPSC CSE exam but only 4,65,882 candidates actually showing up.

Even amongst this 4,65,882 applicants, a good majority only show up on the insistence of their parents or due to peer pressure and are not serious or dedicated towards cracking the exam. Considering this new approach at interpreting data, even though lakhs of candidates apply for the UPSC CSE exam, only a few thousands are serious about it.

Considering the 2024 statistics again, the final list of qualified candidates is 1078 and if according to the previous assumption, the number of serious candidates is around 45000, the success rate of the exam becomes 2% which is higher than its previous record of less than 1%.

On the basis of the Mains statistics, the number of candidates who qualify the Mains exam is approximately 14 times the number of openings which show that around 15008 candidates cleared the Prelims. Hence out of 62,000 candidates, 1 in 4 serious candidates crack the exam making the success rate of clearing Prelims 25%.

The competition for a spot under UPSC CSE is not with the 4,65,882 candidates who showed up but with these 62,000 candidates who are serious. Furthermore, out of the 15,008 candidates who qualify for Mains, 2797 candidates qualify for the final interview making the success rate approximately 15%. In the final personality test interview, one out of two candidates are selected making the success rate 50%.

Also read:

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.
Download EBook

With this logical analysis in mind it becomes evident that it is possible to clear the UPSC CSE exam if the candidate is serious and has a solid UPSC IAS study plan crafted from a deep understanding of the syllabus and UPSC IAS previous year papers. Even though the table and numbers denote a success rate of less than 1%, the competition is never with the total number of candidates who apply for the exam.

The chance of clearing every competitive exam is half preparation and half mindset, so don't let the big terrifying numbers of UPSC CSE and UPSC IAS Statistics scare you and grind on with a positive attitude and a can-do spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many vacancies are there in UPSC CSE 2024?

There are approximately 1056 vacancies according to the official UPSC CSE notification.

2. How many hours should students study to crack IAS?

Ideally students should spend around 12-15 hours daily on different topics to crack IAS.

3. Which subject is best for IAS?

Students can opt for history, geography, political science as their domains after 12th as these subjects make the base for UPSC Civil Services Exam.

4. How many candidates appear for the UPSC IAS exam every year ?

As per the UPSC IAS statistics 2024, approximately 13 lakh candidate appear for the UPSC IAS exam.

5. When will UPSC form come in 2024?

The UPSC form 2024 was released on February 14, 2024.

6. What is the age limit for IAS 2024?

Candidates must meet the age eligibility of 21 - 32 years for UPSC IAS 2024

7. How hard is UPSC Prelims?

According to the UPSC CSE statistics, the success rate of UPSC Prelims is just 25% so it is considered tough.

Articles

Certifications By Top Providers

Access to Justice
Via National Law University, New Delhi
BA Journalism and Mass Communication
Via Chandigarh University, Chandigarh
Media Law
Via New York University, New York
Israel State and Society
Via The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Archaeology from Dig to Lab and Beyond
Via University of Reading, Reading
Human Rights Law and Criminal Justice
Via LMS Law College, Imphal
Edx
 198 courses
Swayam
 193 courses
LawSikho
 127 courses
Futurelearn
 89 courses
Coursera
 76 courses
Udemy
 63 courses

Explore Top Universities Across Globe

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 !

View All
Back to top