The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)—one of the most sought-after exams in India—tests candidates through a vast and rigorous syllabus stretching across three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test (Interview). For aspirants targeting IAS, IPS, or IFS, a thorough understanding of the UPSC syllabus is critical. It not only informs the preparation roadmap but also helps focus efforts on relevant topics, thus enhancing efficiency and chances of success.
Since 2014, the UPSC syllabus has remained consistent, allowing serious candidates to base their study plan firmly on it. Through this guide, all aspirants can gain clear insights into Prelims and Mains syllabus components along with optional subjects and interview preparation tips.
The preliminary examination consists of two important papers, both objective type, collectively carrying 400 marks:
Current Events: National & International importance events
History: India and Indian National Movement
Geography: Indian and World physical, social, and economic geography
Polity & Governance: Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues
Economy & Social Development: Sustainable development, poverty, demographics, social sector initiatives
Environment & Ecology: General issues related to ecology, biodiversity, climate change
General Science: Basic concepts of physics, biology, and technology
Comprehension
Logical reasoning and analytical ability
Decision-making and problem-solving
Interpersonal skills and communication
Basic numeracy and data interpretation (Class X level)
Note: CSAT is qualifying with a minimum of 33% marks required to pass, but Paper 1 determines eligibility for Mains.
The Mains exam comprises nine papers—seven merit-based and two qualifying language papers. This stage tests candidates' intellectual depth, analytical skills, and articulation through descriptive answers.
Indian Heritage and Culture
History (modern and world history)
Geography (physical, economic, social aspects)
Indian Society (diversity, poverty, gender, globalization)
Indian Constitution and Polity
Governance and Public Policy
Social Justice and Welfare Schemes
International Relations and India's Foreign Policy
Indian Economy and Infrastructure
Agriculture and Food Processing
Science & Technology developments
Environment, Biodiversity, Disaster Management
Internal Security and Challenges
Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude
Contributions of moral thinkers
Probity in governance and ethical case studies
Candidates choose two optional subjects from a list of 26 subjects, each paper carrying 250 marks:
| Humanities & Social Sciences | Sciences & Engineering | Literature |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropology | Agriculture | Assamese |
| Public Administration | Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science | Bengali |
| Political Science & International Relations | Botany | Bodo |
| Sociology | Chemistry | Dogri |
| Geography | Civil Engineering | Gujarati |
| History | Electrical Engineering | Hindi |
| Law | Mechanical Engineering | Kannada |
| Philosophy | Medical Science | Kashmiri |
| Psychology | Mathematics | Konkani |
| Statistics | Physics | Maithili |
| Zoology | Geology | Malayalam |
| Commerce & Accountancy | Manipuri | |
| Management | Marathi | |
| Nepali | ||
| Odia | ||
| Punjabi | ||
| Sanskrit | ||
| Santhali | ||
| Sindhi | ||
| Tamil | ||
| Telugu | ||
| Urdu | ||
| English |
Two essays requiring around 1000-1200 words each
Essays can be factual or philosophical, assessing analytical ability and coherence
Paper A: Indian Language (any language from the Eighth Schedule)
Paper B: English language
Both papers carry 300 marks each, only minimum 25% marks required to qualify
Though there is no fixed syllabus for the interview, UPSC focuses questions on:
Candidate's Detailed Application Form (DAF) contents
General awareness on current affairs, social, economic, and political issues
Integrity, leadership qualities, communication, and critical thinking skills
Questions based on candidate’s background, educational qualifications, and interests
Use the syllabus as the foundation of your study plan across stages
Prioritize high-weightage topics and stick closely to the syllabus while reading newspapers or reference materials
Avoid distractions by ignoring irrelevant study material beyond the syllabus
Regularly review and revise topics covered, maintain notes aligned with syllabus sections
Practice previous years’ question papers to understand trends and UPSC’s focus areas
Q1: Is the UPSC syllabus same for IAS, IPS, and IFS?
A1: Yes, IAS, IPS, and IFS candidates share the same Prelims syllabus, while Mains differ mainly in optional subjects.
Q2: How many papers are there in UPSC Mains?
A2: Nine papers, including two compulsory language papers (qualifying) and seven papers counted for merit.
Q3: What is the syllabus for the UPSC Personality Test?
A3: There is no fixed syllabus; the interview focuses on the candidate’s background, awareness, and personality attributes.
Q4: How are optional papers selected?
A4: Candidates choose any two subjects from the UPSC notification list of 26 optional subjects.
Q5: Is knowledge of current affairs part of the syllabus?
A5: Yes, current national and international events form a crucial part of General Studies Paper I in Prelims and Mains.