IAS Exam Pattern 2025 - UPSC CSE Paper Pattern for Prelims & Mains Exam

IAS Exam Pattern 2025 - UPSC CSE Paper Pattern for Prelims & Mains Exam

Edited By Meghana Mohana Krishnan | Updated on Jul 10, 2024 03:53 PM IST | #UPSC CSE
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Union Public Service Commission will release the UPSC 2025 exam pattern in the official notification. The CSE exam pattern can be downloaded in online mode from the official website at upsc.gov.in. According to the IAS exam pattern, there are three stages in the UPSC CSE exam - prelims, mains and interview round. Candidates can check the UPSC 2025 syllabus and other details along with the exam pattern.

With the help of the exam pattern, candidates can strategize their CSE 2025 exam preparation. Understanding the UPSC exam pattern in the early preparation stages is necessary to boost the level of preparation for the entrance test. The IAS paper pattern 2025 specifies details on the type of examination, language, duration, mode of paper, question type, official marking scheme, and much more. So, preparing for the exam will be inadequate without a proper familiarity with the CSE 2025 exam pattern. To know more about the UPSC exam pattern and syllabus, read the full article below.

IAS Exam Pattern (Prelims and Mains) - Overview

Aspirants preparing for the examination can check the UPSC exam pattern 2025 details here.

Name of exam

Civil Services Exam (CSE)

Conducting Body

Union Public Service Commission

Mode of Exam

Offline

(IAS Paper Pattern for Prelims- MCQ-based)

(CSE Paper Pattern for Mains - Descriptive)

(Personality Test - Interview in front of board members)

Number of Stages

  • Prelims exam

  • Mains exam

  • Interview

Number of papers in the IAS Exam

Prelims: 2

Mains: 9

IAS Prelims exam pattern: Marking scheme

Paper 1: +2 marks

Paper 2: +2.5 marks

Negative marking: One-third of marks allotted to each question

Time Duration of the IAS exam

Prelims: 2 hours (Each paper) total 4 hours

Mains: 3 hours (Each paper) total of 27 hours conducted across various days

Type of questions

Prelims: Objective type

Mains: Subjective type

UPSC Exam Pattern - Prelims

According to the UPSC 2025 exam pattern, the preliminary exam is the first stage of the selection process which is qualifying in nature. According to the prelims exam pattern, there will be two papers in the preliminary exam. As per the paper pattern, candidates need to meet IAS cut off 2025 for paper 1. Check the highlights of the UPSC 2025 exam pattern of Prelims here.

IAS Prelims Exam Pattern 2025

Number of papers

GS 1: Based on Indian History, Economics, Indian and World Geography, Science and Technology, Indian Polity, Current Affairs and Environment.

GS 2: Based on Reasoning, Aptitude and Quantitative

Language of paper

English

Hindi

Duration of exam

4 hours (2 hours each)

Number of questions

General Studies Paper 1: 100

General Studies Paper 2: 80

Maximum marks

400 (200 each)

Qualifying marks

33% for Paper 2

IAS prelims exam pattern 2025: Marking Scheme

  • As per the exam pattern of IAS 2025, each question in the prelims exam GS paper 1 will have 2 marks while in GS paper 2 will carry 2.5 marks.

  • As per the IAS paper pattern, one-third of the marks will be deducted for each wrong answer as a negative mark.

  • In case a candidate attempts more than one answer then it will also be considered as a negative marking.

  • There will be no penalty for questions left unattempted.

  • Candidates will have to score a minimum of 33% to qualify for GS paper 2.

IAS Exam Pattern 2025 - Mains

According to the IAS 2025 exam pattern, candidates who qualify in the prelims exam will be eligible for the mains exam. According to the UPSC mains exam pattern, there will be 9 papers. Candidates need to secure at least 25% in their optional subject along with the remaining subjects. All languages covered in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution will be considered for language paper. Check the highlights of the UPSC 2025 exam pattern of mains here.

IAS mains exam pattern 2025

Number of papers

9

Language of paper

English

Hindi

Descriptive paper: Candidates can appear for language paper in 22 languages mentioned in schedule 8 of the Indian constitution

Duration of exam

3 hours each

Subjects

  • Compulsory Indian language
  • English
  • Essay
  • General Studies I
  • General Studies II
  • General Studies III
  • General Studies IV
  • Optional I
  • Optional II

Number of questions

Part A and B: 300 each

General studies and optional paper: 250 each

Sub Total (Mains)

1750 marks

Personality Test

275 marks

Grand Total

2025 marks

IAS Main Exam Pattern - Marking Scheme

  • The IAS Mains exam carries a total of 1750 marks.

  • Each subjective paper in the mains exam carries 300 marks.

  • Candidates can choose two optional papers in the mains exam.

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IAS Exam Pattern: CSE Interview

The interview round is the final stage of the UPSC IAS recruitment and one of the major alma maters to achieve for those want to become an administrative officer of the Indian Government. Around lakhs of candidates apply for the IAS exam, only a thousand can make it to the interview and only hundreds get qualified. According to the previous year trends, there will be no specific exam pattern for the IAS 2025 interview round.

Candidates need to have in-depth knowledge of their subject and current affairs. The panel of the IAS interview round will assess the candidate's mental and social abilities by asking open-ended questions.

Also Read:

IAS Exam Pattern 2025 - Benefits

  • With the help of the UPSC exam pattern, students will be able to understand the number of questions asked in prelims and main exams.

  • The qualifying criteria to crack the prelims and mains stage will be mentioned in the IAS paper pattern 2025.

  • According to the exam pattern of IAS 2025, candidates will not be provided with any scribe to write the exam. However, Persons with Benchmark Disabilities in the categories of blindness, locomotor disability (both arms affected – BA) and cerebral palsy will be provided with the facility of a scribe if desired by the person under Section 2 (r) of the RPWD Act, 2016.

  • Candidates must go through the detailed paper pattern before starting their IAS exam preparation.

IAS Syllabus 2025

UPSC will release the IAS 2025 syllabus along with the exam pattern in the official notification. Candidates can check the UPSC CSE syllabus which will be available separately for prelims and mains exam. It is important to go through the syllabus and exam pattern of IAS 2025 to plan the preparation strategically.

Check Here List of Other Government Exams:

IAS Question Papers 2025

UPSC will release the official UPSC IAS question papers on its official website a few days after the exam is conducted. UPSC will release the prelims and mains question papers in PDF format. Candidates preparing for the IAS exam 2025, must go through the previous year's question papers to enhance their preparation. With the help of IAS previous year question papers, candidates will be able to know the difficulty level of the exam, the types of questions asked in the exam and most importantly the variation of questions of the examination.

IAS Exam 2024: Subject-wise question paper links

Subject

IAS question paper download link

Ecology & Environment

Download link

Current Affairs

Click here

Polity

Press here

History

Download link

Economics

Press here

Geography

Click here

General Science

Download link

IAS Mock Test 2025

UPSC IAS mock tests are one of the most important aspects of knowing the preparation level for the exam. With the help of the IAS 2025 mock test, candidates will be able to understand the exam pressure and paper pattern in a better way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I download the IAS exam pattern 2025 PDF?

Aspirants can download the CSE 2025 exam pattern in online mode from the official website at upsc.gov.in.

2. Who provides the IAS exam pattern 2025?

The UPSC IAS exam pattern 2025 is provided by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

3. How many questions will be asked in the prelims stage?

As per the IAS exam pattern 2025, there will be 100 questions from three sections.

4. What will be the maximum marks for the IAS main stage?

There will be maximum marks of 1750 marks in the IAS main stage.

5. Is there any negative marking in IAS exam 2025?

As per exam pattern of IAS 2025, there will be negative marking of 0.33 marks for each wrong answer.

6. What is the pattern of UPSC 2025?

The UPSC CSE 2025 exam pattern is al follows - Prelims, Mains and interview round.

7. Will UPSC remove optional in 2025?

The removal of option subjects in the UPSC CSE exam pattern can only known from the official notification. Candidates are recommended to check the official UPSC website for more information.

8. How many attempts for UPSC 2025?

Candidates of general category have 6 attempts, while OBC candidates have 9 attempts. Candidates belonging to SC/ST category do not have a limit.

9. Is there any IAS exam pattern for IAS interview?

No, there is no specific IAS exam pattern 2025 for IAS interview round.

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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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