Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2025: Comprehensive Overview

The Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2025 is likely to follow the same general structure and timeline as in previous years unless changes are announced by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Here's a general overview:

Eligibility Criteria

1. Educational Qualification: A graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university.


2. Age Limit:

General category: 21-32 years (as of August 1, 2025)

Relaxation for OBC, SC/ST, and other categories as per UPSC rules.




Examination Structure

The Mains Examination is the second stage of the UPSC Civil Services Examination after the Preliminary Examination. It consists of:

1. Nine Papers:

Qualifying Papers:

Paper A: Indian Language (300 marks)

Paper B: English (300 marks)


Merit-Based Papers:

Essay (250 marks)

Four General Studies Papers (each 250 marks)

Two Optional Subject Papers (each 250 marks)




2. Syllabus:

Essay: Topics covering general awareness and critical thinking.

General Studies Papers:

GS Paper I: Indian heritage, culture, history, geography.

GS Paper II: Governance, polity, social justice, international relations.

GS Paper III: Economy, science & technology, environment, security.

GS Paper IV: Ethics, integrity, aptitude.


Optional Subjects: Choose one subject from a list provided by UPSC (e.g., Literature, Sociology, Public Administration, etc.).



3. Total Marks: 1750 marks (excluding qualifying papers).


4. Interview (Personality Test): 275 marks, bringing the total to 2025 marks.



Tentative Timeline for 2025

1. Notification Release: February 2025


2. Prelims Exam: June 2025


3. Mains Exam: September/October 2025


4. Results Declaration: December 2025/January 2026


5. Interview: February/March 2026


6. Final Results: April/May 2026



For updates specific to the 2025 examination, regularly check the official UPSC website. Would you like detailed guidance on preparation strategies, resources, or any specific paper?